Q: Truck hesitates to start

asked by on February 10, 2016

The engine in my truck hesitates sometimes when starting. It also loses power when going up a steep grade, misfires, and the steering wheel shakes. No SES light coming on. In addition, the ICP sensor was recently replaced.

Car is hard to start Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. All of your symptoms are pointing towards a worn timing chain/belt. A loss of power or "lugging" up a steep grade will be your first sign of a worn timing belt. This is also directly connected to your issue with your hesitation. Your timing may be advanced or lagging causing your valve not to open in sync with the strokes of your engine. As for your shaking steering wheel, this is caused by improperly balanced rims and tires. This imbalance in your rims will cause your steering bushing to wear out prematurely. I’d suggest having a mechanic sent by YourMechanic come to your residence to further diagnose your engine hesitation issue in person. They will be able to recommend proper repairs for all of your car’s problems.

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

Transmission vibration.
This vehicle may have a couple problems that need to be addressed. The first is the torque convertor of the automatic transmission has issues of internal lock up clutch slips or chatters causing jerking or bucking. The transmission would need...
Best AutoZone and Advance Autoparts tools
They sell various tools. Go there and see what warranty they have. It's not going to be like mine--mine is a top-notch, professional one. I didn't pay 9000 buck for it. I got it for free because I used it...
The car doesn't shift into first gear while it works fine in reverse
The problem could be that the internal transmission pump is weak, or the transmission clutch seals are leaking. It sounds like the transmission will need an overhaul. I recommend having a transmission mechanic test the pressures and diagnose the problems...
Running hot with water leaking
Hello, thanks for writing in about your Ford Expedition. From what you've described you may have dual heat on your vehicle and the rear heater core or one of the lines is leaking. It's also possible that your control valve...
Trouble code P0133 - 2002 Dodge Durango
Do you know if there are any exhaust leaks before the sensor? This code trips when the O2 sensor is not switching back an forth between rich and lean as fast as the computer is setting the conditions. This can...
What should I do when my engine revs up and down?
You first want to want to make sure that all electrical connectors at the throttle body are dry, free of corrosion and dirt, plugged in and making secure contact, particularly if you removed any during the service. Make sure none...
How do you scan the GEM module in a 1996 Ford Explorer?
The GEM module can only be scanned using a scanner capable of accessing the GEM module through the OBD2 data link. The scanners that the Ford dealer uses can access the module. There are aftermarket scanners on the market than...
Top water hose gets hot with new thermostat
Hello. This is completely normal operation of the vehicle's cooling system. The top radiator hose (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/radiator-hose-replacement) should always be warmer than the bottom. As coolant flows through the water pockets in the engine it picks up heat, and it is...
2008 Ford Mustang GT Stalls after warm up as if it ran out of gas and won't restart until engine is cooled
The issue is the fuel pump relay on your fuel system. The fuel pump relay is getting hot and shutting off the fuel pump. Then when you shut off the engine and key to the ignition switch, the fuel pump...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Realtor or Real Estate Agent
If If you make your living as a realtor or real estate agent, you may have a number of considerations when it comes to purchasing a used vehicle. The most common considerations are budget, ability to transport people, and comfort....
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're an Undercover Cop
If If you're an undercover cop, when you choose a used vehicle, your main purpose is to look like anything but a cop. That means, of course, that an unmarked Crown Victoria is probably not the wisest choice. We’ve evaluated...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Speed Timing Sensor
Common signs include the transmission having difficulty shifting, Check Engine Light coming on, vehicle not starting, and loss of engine power.