What is the reason for needing to crank the engine several times to start it?

[VonDaisy]

The reason for needing to crank the engine several times to start is: severe carbon buildup on the vehicle's spark plugs, damaged ignition coils, or high-voltage wire leakage causing issues in the ignition system, which makes it difficult to start the vehicle when cold. You can also check if there is carbon buildup on the vehicle's fuel injectors or problems with fuel injector leakage or clogging. A malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor may also cause the need for repeated cranking. The coolant temperature sensor will send incorrect signals to the computer, resulting in insufficient fuel injection controlled by the signal, making it impossible to start the engine successfully on the first attempt. You can go to a 4S shop and have the staff use a fault diagnostic tool to read the vehicle's fault codes to detect the faulty component for repair or replacement.

[KhloeLee]

My car has been running for over a decade and often takes several attempts to start. The most common issue is battery problems. When the battery ages, its storage capacity decreases, and if the voltage drops below 10V, it can't power the starter motor. Especially in winter, cold weather weakens the battery's output, causing the motor to click but not turn over. White corrosion on the battery terminals can also cause poor contact. I regularly check the voltage with a multimeter; if it's below 12V, it's time to replace the battery. It's recommended to inspect it annually and clean the terminals to prevent short circuits. Additionally, if the starter motor is severely worn, it can lead to weak starting, so the motor or relay should be checked. Don't delay, or you might end up stranded on the road.

[SanStephen]

This issue has been discussed in our car enthusiast group. Based on my experience, difficulty starting after multiple attempts is often related to the fuel system. When the fuel pump ages, it fails to maintain sufficient pressure, resulting in inadequate fuel supply during engine startup. Alternatively, a clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow due to accumulated debris. If you hear the engine cranking but it won't start, it's likely a fuel-related problem. Remember, the fuel pump works harder when the fuel level is low - I once experienced slower ignition when my tank was only half full. It's recommended to replace the fuel filter every 20,000 kilometers and have your fuel pressure tested regularly at professional shops to prevent minor issues from escalating. Pay extra attention during routine maintenance - prevention is always cheaper than repairs.

[MilaMarie]

I live in the north, and my car often requires multiple attempts to start in cold weather. The cold significantly reduces battery performance, leading to insufficient power for startup. The engine oil thickens, increasing resistance during operation, which causes the startup process to stutter. When temperatures drop below zero, this issue becomes more pronounced—even with a charged battery, the starter motor struggles to turn. I've learned that warming up the car for a few minutes in the morning or switching to low-viscosity winter oil works well. Keeping the garage warm also helps mitigate risks. Never repeatedly crank the engine in extreme cold—safety comes first, so address the issue promptly.