What to Do When the Car Takes Several Attempts to Start?
2 Answers
Solutions for when a car takes several attempts to start: 1. Check the battery; if the battery performance is poor, it can cause difficulty in starting. Replace the battery when the voltage difference exceeds two volts. 2. Inspect the spark plugs; spark plugs are wear-and-tear components that need regular replacement. When the electrode gap widens, it affects spark plug ignition, necessitating timely replacement. 3. Check the cleanliness of the throttle valve and clean it promptly. 4. Inspect the carbon canister solenoid valve for cleanliness and clean it if necessary. 5. Replace the fuel filter; it is recommended to change it every 15,000 kilometers. 6. Improve the quality of the fuel used.
I just fixed this issue myself and found the main causes to be insufficient battery charge or loose connections, as the dashboard lights dimmed during ignition and voltage below 12V is risky. Worn spark plugs can also lead to weak ignition, and excessive carbon buildup causes unstable sparking; insufficient fuel pump pressure results in intermittent fuel supply, especially noticeable in cold weather. I tried cleaning the battery terminals to remove corrosion, and the multimeter showed normal voltage above 12.5V; after replacing the spark plugs, the engine started smoothly. Another time, the air filter was dirty and blocked the intake—cleaning or replacing it solved the problem. Don’t overlook the idle control valve issue—it regulates engine airflow, and if stuck, starting becomes difficult. Regular maintenance is recommended, such as replacing the battery and filters every two years, and adding antifreeze engine oil before winter to reduce resistance. Forcing multiple hard starts may damage the starter motor—stop and seek professional inspection of the fuel system or ECU control if needed.