Expert: Sean Halliday - 2/28/2008

Question
QUESTION: I ask an old car common problem. My 97 Honda Accord LX now has been over 15,000 mileages. Its engine begins shaking in the morning of cold temperature about 30s F degree when I start it. After that, the car runs well. Why does the new car have no engine sharking problems in a cold temperature but the old car does? What’s the problem when the car begins to have engine-shaking problems in a cold temperature? Is it fixable or it is common to all the old cars and it means having to replace some old parts?  I try to fix it before it may totally shut down someday. Thank you for your answer.

ANSWER: Cold start problems could be worn valve stem oil seals which will foul the plugs but will clear once the engine burns out all the oil that has leaked into the cylinders while sitting overnight.Basic tune up may help but if your car is old,its most likely worn engine components are at fault.Valves,rings,seals,cap rotor,wires,plugs.

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QUESTION: Could you explain what or how basic tune up can be performed? I would like to try it by myself. In addition, if the basic tune up does not work, is it necessary to replace the whole engine or just replace some engine components?

ANSWER: If your engine needs rebuilt,its best to fit a used low mileage or rebuild the complete engine top to bottom.Best to get a second opinion from a good shop or dealer as it is a big job.The cheapest way for this car is a used engine and there are some good sources for this.The tune up includes,new plugs,wires,cap,rotor,fuel and air filter.If you need to,replace all the belts including the timing belt.Replace also the pcv valve and clean the throttle body/intake manifold.I would try the new cap and rotor first as this may cause misfires especially when cold and also new plugs.What is the mileage on your car?.I think you mean 150000?This isnt much for a Honda and im sure if the car has been maintained ,the problem is a tune up needed.

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QUESTION: Thank you for your answer. Yes, my 97 Honda Accord LX has been over 150, 0000 mileages now. Since you mentioned the timing belt, I have a last question. I have not had the timing belt down yet. Is it possible the cold start problems are due to the timing belt? In other words, if the timing belt is down, will it likely the cold start problems to be gone or the timing belt has nothing to do with the cold start problems? In addition, what problems are usually the signals that the timing belt for the Honda Accord LX needs to be done as soon as possible?

Answer
The belt will snap when it gets worn out and thats when you are too late to replace it.The belt should be changed every 50 000 miles.The belt will not have anything to do with cold start problems.Have your mass air flow sensor checked and it is unusual that the check engine light did not come on or did it?