Hey, guys, got a question...

I've been getting occasional rough starts lately. I'm not sure where it'* coming from, and wanted some ideas.

Here'* what'* going on: I noticed lately that when my car was semi-warm that start would sometimes be rough. I would have to give it a little gas before it will start. This is acting like it did when my UIM gaskets were going and I was getting coolant in the engine. I checked my coolant reservoir and it'* a touch low of the cold line (maybe an 1/8th of an inch). This is with a cold engine that has been sitting over night. I checked the oil fill tube and have a little condensation, but nothing alarming. Also, the oil looks fine - dark, but fine (it'* time for an oil change). I pulled off the engine cover and don't see any pooling up top. Basically, I don't think it has to do with a coolant issue.

As I had said It had only done this when I would start it after it was semi-warm - like if I ran my car for about 5-10 minutes from cold, shut it off, and then start it shortly after. For example, like running to a gas station from home to buy a pop.

Thing was today it did it from a cold start when I left for work. Strange thing is that it is intermittent and doesn't always do it. Plus, the car runs like nothing is wrong the rest of the time. The first time it happened I thought it was my fault - like I didn't leave the key in the 'start' position long enough - something stupid like that. But, now that it'* happened since then I'm realizing there'* something else going on.

As I type this, there'* one thing I haven't checked in a while, which is my K&N air filter - it may be getting dirty/clogged. I haven't popped it open for a while now, and since it'* due for an oil change it could be about time for a cleaning.

Any suggestions would be great. Please remember I have limited tools and skills. :( Thanks.

Have the plugs and wires been done? If not, that would be a good place to start...along with checking your K & N. Check the coils using the techinfo information. If you know someone, or if you have a fuel pressure tester, you could see what that is when the problem crops up. A good throttle body, and MAF cleaning - also in techinfo - would be a good idea. Unfortunately, there are many things that could cause your problem.

Thanks for the reply, Dick. Plugs and wires are about a year old. I had them changed when I had my UIM work done last February. They should only have about 6000 miles on them. Obviously it doesn't guarantee they're good still, but, I would hope they are fine. Although - hope in one hand, something in the other...

I will take apart the intake this Thurs/Friday when I do the oil change. I was already planning on doing the oil change, so I have time. It'll give me something to do while I wait for the oil to drain. lol

I don't know if anyone I know has a fuel pressure tester. I may have to start asking if I don't find anything with the intake. I know a new guy at work that is a mechanic on the side, I'd bet money he has access to one.

Thanks for the suggestions, I'll post what I find.