Just wondering if it takes longer to start the 8 than a piston engine. I seems like it takes longer to catch before it starts. Last night after work I had to turn the key over 4 times because I would release it before the engine actually started. I think this must be normal for the rotary, Is it?

Thx for the help.

 

I haven't noticed mine to take longer to start than the piston miata I had prior. I've only let go too soon 2-3 times and it started up just fine on my 2nd crank. Is yours really taking 'too long' to start?

 

Maybe I'm being fussy. The 8 has a very different sound than what I'm used to.

 

You need to put the key in the On position and leave it there for about 20 seconds before cranking it. I believe putting the key in the On position activates the fuel pumps? Someone can correct me on that maybe. I do hear something pumping away though once the key's in the On position. Car starts in about 2 seconds everytime once I did this. On the other hand if I don't do this, I'll hear it cranking for about two seconds, then this harsh grating sound before it finally catches and turns over.

The other thing you can do is perform the 10 second 3000 rpm rev down before shutting down the car in your previous drive. Car tends to start instantly the next time you try and start it.

 

I've never had any problems with mine starting right up. Within half-of-a-second, it's purring like a kitten...

 

warm starts are sketchy at times... cold starts are perfect though, go figure...

 

mine does that too. is yours auto or manual?

 

I don't think it's normal for the rotary, like others said here, mine also starts up instantly, every time. Might have to do with type of engine oil, petrol, plugs, etc. I wonder if your catch delay is due to weather changes? Must be starting to get cold in Calgary this time of year....did it start up instantly during the (warmer) summer months? If the problem persists would be worthwhile getting the starter checked out, especially if you're going to drive your 8 during the winter.

 

Mine has taken longer than normal about 3-4 times in the 8 months I've owned it. Otherwise it does seem to take a second or two longer to fire than my work truck
( chevy V8).
Never flooded though.....knock on wood

 

Owners manual tells you to hold the key to crank for as long as 10 seconds. If you are letting go too quick you risk flooding.

 

If I get in and try to put the key in and start it all in one quick motion it takes a bit of cranking and it seems to have a "weak" start. But if I get in turn the key to the ON position, then close my door and fasten my seatbelt, and THEN crank it, it starts right up.

 

That has been my experience as well.

 

Hmmm.... Turn key to on, fasten selt belt, drink coffee, turn over Renesis without touching the gas, engine starts. Wait till temp comes up and idle drops below 1K, then drive slowly for five minutes until truely warm, then drive it like I stole it.... :D

Are you flashed to at least M?

 

Never had a problem cranking over , a few seconds and it fire up ....warm or cold

 

ditto on the M flash...that made a HUGE difference in my start up

 

I agree. The 8 cranking sound is definitely different from a piston engine and it does seem to take longer to fire up. But it is a different animal so I accept that as normal. Never really had a problem starting mine.

My guess is, though, that if you actually timed the start-up, from cranking start to fire up, it wouldn't be much different from an average piston engine start-up.

 

Mine used to do that, but seems to start a lot faster now that it's broken in (7.5k miles).

-Rupes

 

Well Parker8, I'm in Calgary just like you and I only need 2 cranks to get it started. I don't think it's the temperature here that's causing it. Now that I think of it, it does seem like the cranking takes longer than most cars ... a little bit more drawn out (probably by a fraction of a second longer). Nevertheless, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

when I cranked my 8 it there is like a delay maybe thats just how the rotary is my old car would start n like half a sec

 

I have had this happen about two or three times in the 6 months ive owned it. It happened just yesterday. Held it for about 5 seconds and then it started right on up.

 

Hi Blue, but you should only need one crank to get it started.

 

maybe what I guess is that usually if you listen to the radio or cd without the engine on, then the batteries will get flat easily and difficult to start. Only listen to the music or switch on the light or aircon when the engine is running cos your alternator will charge back. try and see if this work.

 

Thx for the feedback. I'm going to try leaving the key in the on position a few seconds and then start. Even if it does take a little longer its definitely worth the wait.

 

Really? I always thought that one crank was way too short (like 1/4second) vs 2 cranks (which is 1/2second). I'll give it a try. Perhaps we are talking about the samething (just my definition of a crank is messed up) ... either way I turn the key to ignition for 1/2second and it starts.

 

hey i found the same thing, if you turn ur key to the on position for a few seconds it seems to fire the engine quicker. Its like warmin the glow plugs in a diesl. I thought I was the only one that was doing that but it seems to start the engine quicker.