1 out of 20 starts my coworkers 2000 SE has a hard time starting. It will sputter a bit like its running on 4 cylinders or wires are crossed. This happened once since I was looking at it...However I could not reproduce the problem after the car had been running a while. I tried starting it at least 20 times to make it happen again. No stored codes and no active codes.

I reseated the IAC, TPS, MAF, Crankshaft Sensor, and ICM connection. Also reseated all the plug wires. the problem did not come back but she claimed the problem happens when the car is cold.

the only thing I can come up with is a flaky coil pack that only is failing when cold? any other ideas?

The dealer wants to replace her ignition switch for the issue at a cost of $300.

Try cleaning the IAC and TB really good with TB/intake cleaner. Be sure to remove the MAF sensor so you dont get that cleaner on the wires inside the MAF. There is special cleaner for MAFs. Another idea is cleaning grounds, especially the main battery ground under the rear seat. There are a few posts about hard starting 00-05s.

I had this problem before, It was the IAC. I cleaned it and it helped for a little while, but then I replaced it. No problems after.

Could also be a fuel pump having a hard time starting.

Check everything you can. Intermittants are tough.