| Subject: | 94 mitsubishi mirage |
| Question: | i have a problem starting and runnig my car in the cold, especially in the morning. first start, it idles and dead. second or third start then it idles normally. however you need to wait for 2 or 3 minutes to let the engine warm before you can put the transmission to drive (D). if it is not warm enough, it will shake and dead as soon as you put the transmission to dive(D). however you can step the gas pedal to prevent it from dying. after the car is warm up, it will drive very normal and good. it will only idle roughly at stop sign with transmission at drive(D). please help. thanks |
| Answer: | Eugene, This is the most common question I get during the winter. Your situation is very common and is usually remedied easily. Since your car is nearly 10 years old, its going to need some extra care. I would recommend a full tune up. Have you air filter and fuel filter replaced if they haven't been replaced in more than a year. Also have your spark plug wires and spark plugs replaced; including your distributor. If you've never had your belts replaced, this a great time to do it. This includes timing, A/C, water pump, and power steering belts. Another very important item to replace is your PCV valve. A clogged PCV valve will definately cause a rough idle. During your next oil change, make sure to use 5W-30 oil in the winter months. This is a thinner oil and will aid in more reliable start-ups. It'll also be worth your while to have your transmission fluid changed. Most people forget about the tranny oil, but it is extremely important. If after your tune-up your car is still idling rough at stops, have your
idle speed adjusted. Keep up the regular maintenance with your car and
you could get another 10 years out of it. |