Got something for you guys to take a stab at. As of late, I have tried to start my car (when it's cold), and I have to let the starter crank the engine much longer than normal for it to start. When it does start, it runs fine. No rough idle, stalling, or bogging. I noticed this about 3 days ago. It has given me this trouble about 3 times. Normally it starts right up. Pretty quick for an old car.

I have a 1990 Buick Century, 6 cylinder, 80k. Ask me if I left anything out. Thanks.

3/16/2009 10:31:43 PM

Your battery is probably just getting weak.

3/16/2009 10:36:42 PM

^ I replaced the battery before the winter. It cranks the starter with no problem. No other signs of a weak battery. Could be a possibility I suppose.

3/16/2009 10:37:53 PM

Are those cars fuel injected?

3/16/2009 10:46:32 PM

^yes, mpfi.

possibly fuel pressure leaking down for some reason or another. does it only do it after it's been sitting a while?

3/16/2009 10:54:50 PM

yes, fuel injected.

and yes, I only noticed it after it sits for a while. otherwise it starts up with no problem.

3/16/2009 11:05:04 PM

yep, fuel pressure issue probably. could be a tiny leak somewhere, a check valve not working, injector leaking, or the fuel pump prime function not working.

unless there's an obvious leak somewhere, i wouldn't really worry about it on a car that old. just drive the damn thing and be happy it runs good otherwise.

[Edited on March 16, 2009 at 11:15 PM. Reason : i assume we're just talking about a few extra seconds here, not minute or something]

3/16/2009 11:14:42 PM

Have someone turn the key to the run position while you listen near the fuel tank for the fuel pump running. If you hear it, it is priming the fuel system, so just leave the key on for 10 seconds or so before you try to start it to save some wear and tear on your battery/starter. The fuel is just leaking down while the car is sitting.

Also, why did you name this thread after me?

3/16/2009 11:18:52 PM

thanks for the inputs.

haha, long crank. didn't even realize that till now.

3/16/2009 11:27:24 PM

tried it this morning. left it in the "on" position for about 5 seconds longer before I cranked it. started just fine. woot.

3/17/2009 9:21:17 AM

another satisfied tww garage customer.

3/17/2009 9:48:48 AM

hmmm i have this same problem on my 96 buick century

3/17/2009 12:59:44 PM

I can hear the pump priming the system. If I wanted to make a little project out of this, what would you guys recommend taking a look at or replacing first? I figured I'd inspect for any leaks and inspect the pressure regulator. Next guess would be the filter. Any thoughts?

I don't think it's the pump because the car runs fine, especially at higher speeds and rpms. If it were the pump, I don't think it would be able to supply enough gas during hard accelartion or going 70mph+ with my 3 speed tranny.

[Edited on March 18, 2009 at 1:40 PM. Reason : further explanation]

3/18/2009 1:37:19 PM