weak starter when cold

[tim281]

I am guessing a weak starter motor at cold engine is probably a connection problem? Because when the car is warmed up and hot the starter sounds normal, but when it is cold it turns slowly and eventually fires up.
Probably thermal expansion on the loose interface that makes a better connection at warmer temps?

I did a search and found a lot of stuff about weak starters at warm conditions, but nothing about cold conditions.

Anyone had an expierences like this? I will be checking the connections soon...

About 100k on the engine, any idea on how long a starter lasts? I would imagine is it still good for another 50 to 100k....

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

What kinda temperatures are we talking about here? I'd be more inclined to look at the battery before the starter with those symptoms.

 

[tim281]

Forgot to mention I just did the battery so I think it is ok. The temperatures in Portland are around 30 degrees in the morning and that is when I notice the weak motor issue.

 

[millhouse]

Normally when a starter goes....it goes.

I'd check to ensure all of your electrical connections are good including your grounds.

 

[HISSIN50]

Another vote to check the battery and connections.

 

[monte87]

battery

 

[RYC CUKR]

If you have recently replaced the battery I would look into replacing the positive and negative cables especially if they are the originals. Over time they break down and can cause lots of slow or no start problems. Plenty of guys have had issues and replaced the cables and voila problem solved.

 

[Makdaddymac]

2nd wires, and i know its opposite to your problem when the timing is advanced a warm engine is hard to start up with timing advanced i could be wrong but would retarded timing have the opposite effect? lol. i am pissn in the wind on this one sorry...

 

[Evilfox]

Check your wire connections on the start solenoid as mentioned earlier. Also should check the wires on your start relay which is located on drivers side fender apron.

Other then a loose connection I really can't think of anything that would cause a weak cold start other then a weak battery.

 

[MuDDuQ]

In extreme temperatures the oil you use can affect the engine turning over slow because your oil is simply cold and thick. At 30 degrees that shouldn't be the issue but in below zero conditions it can happen. I use synthetic oil and it defiantly helps a lot in very cold conditions.