1994 Toyota Camry Logo
Posted on Apr 23, 2009

1990 Camry won't start

Hello,

I have a 1990 Camry with very low miles (just turned 50,000 =). However, since I moved to CO three years ago it's had trouble starting (always in the cold and always in the mountains). Sometimes when I turn the key, the engine will rev, but not start. However, I can slam my foot hard on the gas for about 10 seconds and then it will start (a bit wobbly at first, but then it gets going).

However, now this problem is starting when I'm Denver (altitude: 5,280 as opposed to 9,000 ft). So I'm guessing it's not just a "mountains" problem. It only happens in cold weather. One mechanic told me that my car has the wrong spark plugs. Could this be causing the problem? It seems like my car can't get enough fuel to start up. Other people have suggested the fuel injector, a plugged fuel filter, bad fuel pump ... any insight?

  • ColoradoRain
    ColoradoRain Apr 23, 2009

    Nope, my car is always outside when it happens. I don't have a garage and it never stays in the shop cuz the mechanics can't figure out what's wrong w/ it, because it starts right up every time I'm in there ... naturally. Thanks for your input =)

  • ColoradoRain
    ColoradoRain Apr 24, 2009

    Great! I will try that. Thanks so much!

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captain anonymous

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  • Posted on Apr 23, 2009
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I wouldnt say wrong spark plugs but maybe the wrong gapping on the spark plugs.. Is the car parked in a garage? it sounds like maybe your fuel pump

  • captain anonymous Apr 23, 2009

    Oh ok..i've had this sort of problem with my car to, what i did was clean the battery posts and terminals and disconnect the wires to the starter and take either a file or sand paper and sand to get fresh metal and it usually strats right up. and try a bottle of fuel injector cleaner

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