hard starts and occasional stutters?

[87-325ic]

does this point to a vacuum leak? sometimes it takes a few cranks to get it running. sometimes it starts as soon as the key turns. sometimes i have to try 2-3 times and give it gas....

also, while driving, it will have a sort of hiccup, like i took my foot off the gas pedal for a second, then resumed. this always throws the check engine for the lambda sensor getting out of range readings.

any advice here?

[llll1l1ll]

Check your CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) and your TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) while you're at it.

Those would be my first two guesses.

[jlevie]

Intake leaks would be at the top of my list of suspects. At least until the car can pass a smoke test of the intake.