Q: Hi. I have a 2005 Dodge Dakota. First start of the day is kinda rough after that it starts fine

asked by on February 28, 2017

Wondering if it may be my starter or alternator or what it may be? First start up of the day it usually struggles but after that it's usually fine. I have a brand new battery. If it sits for longer then 4-5 hours it kinda takes longer to start. I think it could be the alternator or starter. Not too sure.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the charging system Warning Light mean in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?
The charging system Warning Light is located on your instrument control panel, and will illuminate when your vehicle’s electrical charging system is not functioning properly. If the charging system Warning Light comes on, schedule an inspection as soon as possible....
How do I view the instantaneous fuel consumption?
The instantaneous fuel consumption feature is displayed on the multi-information display, and shows you the fuel economy that your vehicle is achieving at any given moment. To view the instantaneous fuel consumption, press the display button on the lower left...
My car wont start
It sounds like you may have a starter failure (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-does-a-starter-last). Sometimes a loose battery connection can cause a similar symptom. If the battery terminals are tight, I would suspect the starter. A certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, should...
Stabilitrak
Your car is equipped with what are called wheel speed sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/wheel-speed-sensor-replacement) which monitor the speed of the wheels at all four corners. When they detect that wheel speed is out of the ordinary in a given set of conditions,...
Car starts but keeps shutting off when I apply brakes or slow down
Hi, thanks for writing in. Having the precise codes is very important-- even if the Check Engine is no longer illuminated. There can be transient codes that have not yet set off the light. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-idle-control-valve)...
What value should the MAF signal be at idle?
Here is a breakdown of the wiring color codes, and the associated voltages on each, for engine running and ignition on. The signal from the mass airflow sensor should steadily sweep from 1.9 to 5 volts as you press and...
The car was running fine a week ago. The check engine light kept coming on when the throttle was above 2000 rpm's.
Hi and thanks for contacting Your Mechanic. Check the engine light for any other codes that would appear. This will direct you in the direction that is having a fault. If your engine is having an issue with the rpm's...
Do i have to use synthetic oil in my bmw
The manufacturer recommends 5w40 or 5w30 full synthetic oil only for your car's engine. I would recommend only using full synthetic oils.
My car will not move while I put it in Gear
Hi Francisco. If you can feel the vehicle shift into gear after moving the shifter into a forward gear, then it's likely that there is internal damage inside the transmission. However, if you move the shifter but nothing appears to...

Related articles

2012 Ford Mustang vs. 2012 Dodge Charger: Which One Should I Buy?
Technically these two vehicles have wildly different classifications: compact for the Ford Mustang and large car for the Dodge Charger. However, who would consider either one anything other than a muscle car? These cars are meant for speed, fun, and...
2012 GMC Acadia vs. 2012 Dodge Journey: Which One Should I Buy?
The GMC Acadia is classed as a midsize SUV, which is able to seat between six and seven passengers comfortably. The 2012 Acadia offers three rows of seating, so passengers will feel the roominess that is typical in a true...
How to Charge a Dead Car Battery
The battery in your car can go dead for any number of reasons leaving you stranded. It can be low from lights being...