98 Mercury Mystique difficult cold start but only on occassion. Will crank it for 1 to 2 minutes and then it barely starts running. After a few more minutes it runs fine. If you turn it off it will then start right up.
Country: United StatesMake: MercuryModel: Mystique GSYear: 1998Engine: 2.0 L Already Tried: IAC valve replaced. Timing belt was changed several months ago but it has run fine and started fine until this recent starting problem.
Thanks for trusting us with your problem. I have trained in the automotive field and currently work as a shop foreman. I will be helping you today.On this vehicle several things can cause the issue you are having. First thing to do:Check spark output of multiple coil wires to verify spark will consistent jump a 1/2-3/4" air gap. If spark output of the coil appears to be weak, replace the ignition coil pack and wires. Check to verify that the engine has the correct spark plugs and that the air gap is set correctly. Check fuel pressure. Fuel pressure should be 40 PSI when the ignition switch is cycled to the run position and fuel pressure should hold in the system without bleeding away. If pressure is excessively high, check for a restricted return line. If fuel pressure is slow to build or bleeds away after the fuel pump stops running, check the dead head output pressure of the pump with the fuel gauge installed at the fuel filter connection. If fuel pressure cannot reach 90 PSI during the dead-head test or the fuel pressure bleeds away when the pump stops running, replace the fuel pump. If fuel pressure checks to be ok, check for a potential fuel quality issue. Check the alcohol content of the fuel to verify it is not too high and inspect the fuel for other contaminants. The most common cause is weak fuel pump or contaminants if spark and plugs are in good shape. Thanks
Experience: Schooling, Current Shop Foreman