1998 Mazda Protege Madza That Problems Starting On Cold Mornings Anything Below

1998 MAZDA PROTEGE
135,000 MILES
Avatar
DANTHEMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have problems starting on cold mornings. Anything below fifty five degrees, I have to pump the pedal repeatedly and turn over several times for extended periods for it to finally start. The car starts fine on warm days. Has a new battery. The fuel pump seems to be working fine. Curious if it could be the fuel filter?
Nov 30, 2011 at 3:43 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
RIVERMIKERAT
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 6,110 POSTS
Pumping the pedal opens the throttle body, causing the engine to suck in more air. It sounds like the injectors are dumping too much fuel on cold start conditions. Have the computer scanned for both soft and hard trouble codes.
Nov 30, 2011 at 5:45 PM
Avatar
MIKE H R
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 3,094 POSTS
It is possible that there may be some water in the fuel system, I use sea foam to clean out contaminates caused by the ethenal that is added to the gas. It creates build up on the fuel pump screen and the fuel filter. If you have not done it all ready I would change the filter.
Jun 19, 2018 at 6:29 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.