saturn sl 97 start up

[kaz555]

sometimes it takes a while for my saturn sl 97 twincam to start, i would have to keep trying until it comes to life, how can i correct this problem.

[sierrap615]

97s fuel pumps had a problem retaining pressure after shutoff. to help the engine start up faster, turn the key on for about 10 seconds then start the engine. this will give the fuel pump enough time to build-up the pressure that was lost. i bet it will start right up.

[bnavarre]

kaz555,

Your problem sounds similar to one I have. I've got a 97 SL1 that, when the car is warm (say 20 min. after a half hour drive) it doesn't want to start on the first try, but almost always on the second, and never more than three trys. Anyway, I have found that waiting to crank the engine after the key is turned on for several seconds does help most of the time.

I have gotten into the habit of turning the key, then putting on my seatbelt and closing the door...then trying to crank the engine. It seems stupid, but I get frustrated quick when the car doesn't start, so that time delay is my therapy.