Our '97 is acting goofy. If you turn the key and it doesn't quite catch on the first try, it will not start at all. We have to wait 10 to 15 minutes before it'll start, and then it runs as if nothing is wrong.

This can be quite inconvenient when in line at a fast food drive up!

Also (don't know if it'* related), occasionally the car will sputter and die for no reason, but start right back up and run great.

The entire engine was replaced 6 months ago with a brand-new unit after self-destructing on a diet of antifreeze in the UIM.

Any ideas?

to clarify... when you turn the key the starter will only turn once, and if it does not start you cannot even try again for 15 minutes. is this when hot or all the time? does the starter not work at all or does it just not catch (as in broken teeth on the flexplate)

Your starter is going bad.

That'* a pretty bold statement considering the unanswered questions.

Let'* find out if the starter is even turning, and the motor isn't firing, or if the starter ISN'T turning first. Then we'll diagnose.

I'm sorry that I wasn't more clear.

The first time I turn the key, if the engine spins but doesn't start, this happens:

The starter will turn over the engine when I turn the key, but the engine won't start. It'* like the fuel has been shut off. There'* no gas smell, but the starter will just keep turning the engine over but it won't fire.

The starter is absolutely fine, as is the battery. The engine will crank and crank - it just won't fire and start.

Is there some kind of anti-theft or safety on the fuel pump relay? It'* seems as if there is no fuel. Yet after 10 or 15 minutes, it starts right up like nothing happened. Unless of course, I don't crank it quite long enough for it to actually start - then I'm waiting another 10 or 15 minutes.

I hope this is more clear.

My first step would be to check if you have fuel pressure when you are cranking and it isn't starting.
If no fuel pressure, check battery cable, cabin grounding block, possible fuel pump.
If pressure, crank position sensor

I had a similar problem about a year ago.
Turned out to be low fuel pressure caused by a bad pump, and a clogged filter.
Probably got a tank of bad gas somewhere.....

Id recommend checking fuel pressure and changing fuel filter.

Bob