95 Maxima hard to start cold, but runs fine when it has started... Help.

[HobbyFarmer]

My 1995 Maxima is hard to start when it's cold but runs fine once it has started. I checked the codes and they pointed to the knock and downstream O2 sensors. I changed the knock sensor, no change, still hard to start. I'm not changing the O2 sensor yet, in case the code clears once I fix the rest. I checked the coolant temp. sensor and it reads within limits in my "Haynes" manual. I am now thinking that it may be fuel pump? Maybe a check valve to prevent fuel to trickle back to the tank once the engine isn't running for a while? Any help on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank-you in advance...
Modified by HobbyFarmer at 10:00 AM 10/7/2008

[HobbyFarmer]

Well it's not a fuel check valve. I started the engine, let it run a few seconds, shut it off and tried to start it again. It was still hard to start... Could it still be the coolant temp. sensor, even though the reading is in limits of my "Haynes" book?

[marlin29311]

Is your battery ok?

[coppolac]

1997 Maxima replaced starter, hard to start, starter cranks fine, but engine fires like timing is off. Turn key back off, try again, very strange firing, sometimes starts, when it does, runs beautiful.Does this cold or hot.Could it be cam / crank pos sensor?

[1861]

I had the same problem and I resolve it. The real problem was the ignition switch. let me explain:When you turn the key at the moment of start the ignition switch should provide the power for "START SIGNAL" and that power should go to you ECM connector #20. What I would reccomend to you to do:1)Unscrew the screws under your steering weel and locate the ignition switch.2)Unscrew 2 small screws that are holding the ignition switch and take it out. Do not disconnect any connectors.3) Get the 10 feet long wire and connect one end to your "+" on bettery and another to the black with green line wire on your ignition switch.4)Put the flat screwdriver into the switch and turn it to start the engine. When engine start - that's the problem5) If engine doesn't start, check the Egnition relay (it is located at fuse box on the left side of your vehicle.

If you need more info, send me e-mail at [email protected]