96 tercel cold starting problems

Hello, I just bought a 1996 toyota tercel only to find out the very next morning it wouldnt start. After turning the key all the dash lights would light but there was no cranking (silence). After several frustrating attempts it started. This problem has continued. It starts just fine when the engine is warm, only has this problem when cold (mornings and after sitting for hours while i am at work) It has always eventually started. I had the check engine light read and the code was "insufficient EGR flow". I do not think this is related, but have no idea. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance

Reply to
dankenone
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Code P401, right? Yeah, I had this one too. Try replacing the vaccuum hoses. Or, reach behind the glovebox and disconnect the ECU for 30 seconds before you start the car to clear the code, and the car will run fine for two more starts.

I replaced both O2 sensors, had the EGR checked, etc etc. I cleaned the hoses, but replacing them would be much easier.

As to your starting, sounds like bad contacts in the starter, but I'm not sure.

Reply to
Hachiroku

Disconnect the terminals from the battery and then clean and dielectric all the terminal connections on the starter. Clean and dielectric the battery terminals. If that does not solve it, you may have either a bad starter solenoid or problems with the starter motor itself, such as the commutator / brushes, or the ignition switch circuit. Try the cleaning first, it's the cheapest fix. Good luck.

Reply to
user

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