Hi,
I have an '02 MCS (Chili Red with a Black hat) with just over 24,000 miles. She has been well-maintained, and rarely abused. Lately she has been exhibiting an unusual (for her) behavior. After sitting for 6 or more hours, upon start-up, the car starts with difficulty, and barely idles until having run for a minute to a minute and a half. She then idles and runs like a clock.
The weather has been mild, with temperatures in the 40's to 60's, and moderate to high humidity. She never had any starting issues when the weather was much colder.
I live just south of Boston, and the nearest (or at least best) dealer is an hour away. When last I was there, the tech updated the software (remember when software was something you wore?).
Does anyone have any suggestions? I may be worrying needlessly, but if this is indicative of some problem down the road, I'd rather take care of it now.
Thanks. It's nice to have a place to go and get so much input.

Hegira

 

I have an 05 and I've experienced this 3 or 4 times, Each time, it happened right after filling up with gas. It has always cleared up after 20-30 seconds.

 

Mine has always had this problem. On warm days on first start up it kills, second try it will meekishly run for a few seconds and then run perfectly.

In the winter, pow, starts every time. Tried all the different things people have suggested on NAM with no difference. Dealership is worthless on the issue. Possibly has to do with summer gas formulas and wamer less dense air and the ECU not figuring it out.

Minor hassle.

 

Sounds like the infamous COLD START STUMBLE.

See https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=44204

You got lots of company, including me. Mine went away with a change of gasoline brand.

 

Thanks, everyone. I guess it's just the nature of the beast. I just started running Sunoco Ultra, 93 octane, at $3.31 a gallon (yikes!). My mileage and performance seem to have improved, but now she does this.
Oy....