03EStwin

I'm having trouble when starting my 03 ES300, when I attempt to start, it struggles to crank, but eventually does start.

I've done some checking, and wonder if it could be a relay problem. Any other's experience this?

I'm trying to stay ahead of the game before the problem get's worse, any help appreciated.

Thanks.

03EStwin

The car has 136,000 miles, thought this might help diagnose.

Chop

I am sure you might look a few things before you use all this infromation but I would start with the fuel system. Starting with the Filters (I was shocked at how much damage a bad fuel filter could do - and how it starts out with slow starts). To me...and other might say otherwise, the fuel filter is the starting point to issue in front of it and behind it, starting with the fuel pump.

Change the filters ASAP (at the sign of any gas issues, so you dont look so dumb when they ask you when was the last time you changed it?)

yeldogt

If you are saying that the starter motor cranks slowly -- then it is a failing battery or maybe the contacts in the starter solenoid are going. With an older car you could also have corrosion on various connections or a dying alternator.

Its not a fuel problem -- if the starter is slow to crank.

The solenoid problem normally begins with the starter giving a short slow crank and then it will crank and start normally. You can order the new plunger and starter contacts (I got mine on e-bay) and put them in the starter. The starter in most of these cars can be removed in 1/2 hour with standard tools and the starter parts can be changes out in a similar time. Better to fix the OE starter then to get a cheap aftermarket. Plus you will fix it for about $25.00 -- if thats the problem.

I have had to do it to two of ours

03EStwin

Thanks for the replies. To give you a better idea of what's going on, when I turn the key, the cranks aren't slow, but rather there are multiple cranks before it actually starts, almost like a broken record effect, if that makes sense. For instance, what would sound like a normal crank and start, mine is a prolonged crank and start.

At this point, it's hard for me to determine whether it's a fuel related or power related issue. What's more, is that at times it starts up normal, and other times it cranks forever, then starts.

Still a mystery. Looks like another visit to the shop soon.

300klexus

I know it's a long shot but did you ever find out the problem? I'm experiencing the same issue.

808mcv20l

Scottykilmer video I watched said to try clean the MAF sensor, you can search for the video on youtube.

I've cleaned it on a 99 Mazda protege with CRC MAF cleaner I bought from O'Reillys, didn't have a slow start problem to begin with but I did notice that it removed a sheen of filth on the wires in the sensor.