greg8453

Looking at the temp sensors with a scan tool. Cold engine KOEO. If they are off much it can cause hard starts.

RJ_RS_SS_350

Maybe if you try to describe what you mean by hard starting.

Has your MPG dropped since this behavior started?

donbrew

I have no idea what KOEO means. I don't think the temps would matter.
A leaking injector would cause a code. Either P0171 or P0172 or some other.
Could just be the car is getting older.

What does "sluggish start" mean if not the starter turning too slow? I take it to mean the starter sounds like "I ... don't ...wanna ... start,.. I ...don't... wanna... start".
In cold weather the voltage needs to be 12,5V to turn the starter fast. Load test after it has warmed up doesn't mean much, especially if it was a kid at AutoZone/Advance/O'Reilly that did it.

tiapetra

KOEO = Key on position with engine off
Commonly used for OBD I manual testing.

One or more injectors can leak down over long periods with engine off, not when running.
Check for black smoke out of tailpipe on startup when it happens.

A guy in Cummings Ga can clean and test them very reasonably.

greg8453

If you have a failing ECT and it's reading open (full cold -40) it will over fuel and cause a hard start. The vehicle is programmed with CFM (clear flood mode) which will turn off the injectors during the crank. To get to CFM you just go WOT.
Try starting your HHR with the ECT unhooked.

Notagain

When I start the car cold the starter engages quickly then the engine turns over as if something is restraining it then it starts and runs fine. It's kind of like a hiccup at first then it's OK.

I don't believe the MPG has dropped. .

Notagain

Thanks; I will try it without the ECT.

greg8453

NO. I was making a point to the other guy who didn't think it made a difference.

donbrew

You can read the ECT temp on the dashboard via the digital readout on the DIC. The Ambient air temp is on the dashboard. The Intake Air Temp sensor (part of the MAF) has codes for malfunctions.

Notagain

My mileage has now dropped off. When I first start the car it still struggles a little but will start. A couple of hours later after it cools I can barely start it. I have to press the accelerator to get it going and it has quite a bit of exhaust smoke. Once the engine is warm it starts up with no hesitation and runs fine. I think that might indicate an injector problem as was discussed but it could be other issues too.

Is there any way to determine what is wrong with the injectors? Do they have to be removed and cleaned or tested?