Inconsistent starting cycle

Okay basically my problem is that my starting cycle changes to the point where I will either crank the car too long to the point where it grinds the starter briefly, or will crank the car too short where the car will either not turn over or will kinda turn over but not completely start.

For example, I'll go to crank it and it'll take about 3 seconds to start. The next time I go to start I'm expecting it to once again take a similar amount of time, only this time it starts nearly right after I turn the key and therefore I end up grinding the starter. Then after the next time I start it's neither too long or too quick to start.

Also on those times where I don't crank it long enough, when I go to crank again it has an even longer cranking cycle than usual. Is that normal?


Anyway, I have to believe this isn't normal. Any ideas based off my description of what might be going wrong?

Has new spark plugs/wire, new fuel filter.

Thanks.

year? engine size?
did you check your ignition switch for signs of melting?

Mine does the same thing. It's a 2000 Grand Am with the 3400 SFI. If it sits for like half an hour, it would crank for a few seconds (faking a start in the middle) and it finally starts. Once it runs, I shut it off, then crank it again, then it starts like a dream. Would a fuel filter/pump replacement be recommended? I can make videos and upload them to YouTube if you don't know what I'm talking about.

I guess it would have been good of me to put the year and engine wouldn't it?lol Can't believe I forgot that info.

2001 Grand Am GT
3.4l V6 CAI
231,000 miles

Okay, here's a video of my car starting to show what I'm talking about.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQq79S1WKcY


Thanks!

I don`t really notice much of a problem with your video. my Buick will also act like your car, slight hesitation. With my car I just turn the key to run position ,listen for fuel pump to prime (2 Seconds) then turn key to start and away it goes no problem or hesitation. I`d get the fuel pressure tested .After that maybe some fuel injector cleaner and or a tuneup.

How old are the spark plugs? Are you using the recommended irridium(?) plugs? Are you waiting for the fuel pump to prime the system before starting?

personally, I don't think it's a real issue.

I am using AC Delco platinum tip plugs. I don't believe the car calls for the iridium plugs. Platinum was standard issue at the time. I did a spark plug change about 20,000 miles ago. The plug wires are AC Delco too but were in good shape at the time so they were not changed. I do wait for the fuel pump to prime. Sometimes I'll even do it twice, though that never seems to do anything.

Yeah, it's not really an issue, it's just a bit annoying. I am worried about the starter and flywheel though. Those times where it starts immediately I sometimes hold the key I'n the start position too long and I get a not so nice squeeling sound that I was unable to duplicate in the video. I'm worried it's the starter grinding. I don't think it has starter grind protection. And I know from experience what a hassle it is to change a flywheel.lol

Nothing to be worried about.