Hard Hot Start... Sometimes

[heifetz17]

This issue is commonly caused by a weak fuel pump or a bad check valve. When a fuel pump starts failing, it's often when it gets hot. This would explain why it's hard starting after running. The faulty check valve allows fuel pressure to drop off after shutting the car off, and the pump is slow to re-pressurize the system so it'll start again. Once cold, the pump starts functioning normally again until it gets hot, so on cold starts it pressurizes the system quicker for faster starts.


It's likely getting colder in Portland than it was in July when you started this post. The colder weather may keep this from happening as much. Keep an eye on it, especially when Spring comes around and see if it starts acting up again when the weather gets hotter.

[PDXPeter]

Thanks! I was wondering if the check valve could be faulty. Seemed to be the most likely culprit.

[Zambuzan]

Wow this explains a lot for me lol. Every time I go get gas, I turn the engine off when its already hot, fuel up, and then when I go to start the car again it takes a few cranks... Not sure if its such a big problem that I need to fork out $260 for new fuel pump assembly

[jeffnhiscars]

My new Bosch external was only $106. If the in tank pump goes you can hear the external sucking it's brains out.

[Zambuzan]

My new Bosch external was only $106. If the in tank pump goes you can hear the external sucking it's brains out.

Everyone says that these are audible and they "hum" but I must be deaf because I can't hear mine AT ALL, even when I pull the rear bench up. Not sure if it's stock or what...