Every now and then my car has a hard time starting.

[Derptastic]

I have a stock '88 325i. Once about every couple weeks my car has a hard time starting up, or doesn't start at all. Usually the engine will go after a second of turning over but when I have the problem it takes 10 sec. of cranking, and sometimes longer. Last night I couldn't even get it to start. It doesn't seem to matter if the engine is warm or cold.

Also when this happens, the engine sputters and will run very rough for a minute or two after starting.

What things should I check?

[raafhimself]

you should check the disdik.

[foofopps]

You may have leaky injectors, there is a test where you leave them attached to the fuel rail but take them out of the head and put them in shot glasses. Let them sit over night or for a day and see if they are leaking they will fill the shot glasses.

[Derptastic]

you should check the disdik.

Hmm. The disdik is brand new and it was the highest quality one I could find. It cost me $1,699. I doubt that's it.

Other suggestions?

[Cletonius]

Crank position sensor? Try reseating the contacts in the plug and using some dielectric grease and see what happens.