2009 Honda EX with 125K miles. I was having some starting issues where when it turned over it would refuse and click like it was the starter. Not constant. Occasionally, but becoming more frequent over time. Mechanic agreed on starter. Starter replaced. At the same time new plugs, new serpentine, new air intake hose, and intake gasket kit also. The air intake hose was cracked and the others needed to be done for general age and wear issues.

Now she starts every time, but I'm seeing some occasional hesitancy. Like a slightly longer start or a definitely longer start with what sounds like a muffled pop.

Fuel related?

When running, she runs as well as she did the day I bought her. Quiet idle. Good power. No other issues I can detect by sound or in handling.

 

Is the starter spinning the engine at the same rate when you have the hesitation? Did you notice this issue after you filled up your gas tank?

 

Yes, the starter seems very uniform now.

I have noticed the issue both after a full tank and when it's lower.

It's also not necessarily happening on first start of the day.

 

Could be a loss of fuel pressure while the car sits.

I'd say get in the habit of turning the key to the II position, but don't try to start the car. The fuel pump will prime for about 2 seconds, then turn the key to start the car. See if the problem still persists.

Did this start just after you had the work done on the car?

 

No, it started before. I assumed it was part of the starter issue.

I'll try the priming.