1997 Toyota Corolla Strating up in the winter/cold

DKHIEU

MEMBER
1997 TOYOTA COROLLA
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

My car usually runs great, until winter. When it gets cold my car takes a little longer than usual to start up. It still starts with the first try but barely. If I don't use my car for a few days it will not start up if it is cold. Almost like the battery died, and a jump will get it going. Is there anything I can do to fix this problem. This started last year, but I had put in a new starter in last February, so I did not think I would have this problem.

Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 AT 6:48 PM

3 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there, if the car is hard to start cold and ok warm, have the battery load tested as winter will show up a poor battery, Cold cranking will drew a lot of amps and the ignition may be a bit down on voltage as a resault. Check all battery terminals as well. Try this first.

Mark (mhpautos)

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Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 AT 7:14 PM

DKHIEU

MEMBER
2 POSTS

If my battery terminals have a lot of gunk on the terminals would that be a problem also, and how should I go about cleaning those off.

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Wednesday, December 19th, 2007 AT 7:17 PM

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there, To clean terminals remove and soak in a solution of hot water and bicarb soda, about 2 table spoons to 1/2 litre water it will fizz and bubble away the acid, flush with clean water, clean battery posts with emery paper and when assembled use a good quality terminal protector spray, your auto spares will have this in stock.

Mark (mhpautos)

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Thursday, December 20th, 2007 AT 12:07 AM