Why is the car starting slowly?
2 Answers
Car starting slowly may be caused by the following reasons: Reduced engine efficiency: During cold starts, especially in winter, cold air directly affects the atomization of fuel, leading not only to lower thermal efficiency of the engine but also a decrease in engine power. High oil viscosity: Cold air not only affects the atomization of gasoline but also increases the viscosity of the engine oil, resulting in insufficient lubrication for metal components such as the crankshaft and connecting rod. Taking the oil grade "5W-30" as an example, "W" stands for "winter," indicating its use in cold conditions. The number before "W," 5 in this case, represents the viscosity at low temperatures. A smaller number indicates better fluidity and stronger cold resistance. Increased transmission resistance: In low-temperature environments, the viscosity of transmission oil also increases, leading to higher resistance during gear coupling and rotation inside the transmission. Manual transmission vehicles may experience stiff gear shifting and difficulty in starting. Degraded grease performance: Low temperatures increase the viscosity of both engine oil and transmission oil, resulting in higher power loss and making it harder for the car to start.
A while ago, my car also experienced delayed ignition, and after inspection, it was mainly due to a battery issue. The four-year-old battery's charge retention had declined, causing insufficient voltage during cold starts and making ignition difficult. In fact, worn starter motor brushes or excessively large spark plug gaps can also slow down the starting process. I later replaced the battery, and everything returned to normal. Another time, I refueled at a small gas station, and the impurities in the fuel line caused the fuel filter to clog, leading to poor fuel supply and prolonged ignition time. It's recommended to turn off power-consuming devices like the AC and headlights before using the car in winter to reduce the battery's load. If the car fails to start after three consecutive attempts, it's better to call for roadside assistance rather than keep trying.
