What Causes Slow Engine Start in Cars?
2 Answers
Slow engine start in cars can be attributed to the following reasons: Increased oil viscosity: In cold winter weather, low temperatures and dry conditions cause the engine oil to thicken, slowing down its flow rate and increasing resistance in the car's engine, leading to difficulty in starting. Engine malfunction: Internal faults in the car's engine, often due to improper use, can increase engine wear, resulting in insufficient cylinder pressure and making it hard to start the car. Frozen exhaust pipe: Low winter temperatures can cause the car's exhaust pipe to freeze, making engine ignition difficult.
I've been driving an older German car for over a decade and have encountered slow ignition issues several times. The main culprit is usually the battery – after three or four years of use, its power significantly diminishes, especially noticeable during winter. Wiring aging can also cause unstable power supply, as those exposed cables in the engine compartment become brittle over time. Last time when my car had slow starts, the inspection revealed that the carbon brushes in the starter motor were worn down to half their size – replacing them immediately solved the problem. Spark plug carbon buildup similarly affects ignition, particularly for vehicles mainly used for short city trips. My recommendation is to first test the battery voltage; if it's below 12 volts, replacement should be considered.
