Expert: Sean Halliday - 10/25/2006

Question
Hi, I am having a cold start problem of my 97 WRX. It it very hard to start in the morning or after leaving the car off for more than 5 hours. It feels like there were no fuel going into the engine and starts with very low low idle and even if I put my foot on gas it just doesn't feel like drinking any fuel. It will suddenly inject fuel into the engine again and I had to hold on gas for about 20 seconds and it will at least idel properly. The car will not run well (fell like pinging or missfiring) until it gets very warm.

Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!

Answer
Sounds like fuel pressure.I would check your filter,fuel pump,EGR valve.Look for any vacuum leaks and make sure the engine has good compression ,you didnt say how many miles are on it.Does your car have a turbo?The pinging is a concern and isnt good for the engine,also look at the fuel pressure regulator.If your car is equipped with a turbo then its most likely got a problem.