Q: Van starts right up with first try on cold start, but cranks hard when warm.

asked by on May 19, 2017

I recently purchased an 05 Honda Odyssey and I was meticulous about looking over everything inside and out. Anyway starting yesterday, it starts right up on the first try, but after driving 30 highway miles to work, I shut it off, clocked in and cane back out to park the van and it cranked really hard and wouldn't start. Tried a couple times and finally just acted like it was dead, wouldn't crank at all. About 15 minutes later, I was about to get a jump but I tried one more time and it started up the first time. I took it to Autozone today to check the charging system and they said everything: battery, starter, alternator, checked out perfectly fine. Got home, did a power steering flush, cranked it on a couple times to test it and the second time I did, same issue as yesterday. Not sure if this can be related, but the power steering is pretty hard when parked or at very low speed, and belt squeals when you first start the engine.

My car has 219000 miles.
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

How do I set a prompt or a ringtone for the HandsFreeLink?
Your HandsFreeLink® (HFL) system alerts you to an incoming call with a sound. You can decide whether you want an actual ringtone (the default), or a prompt. To change from one to the other, just follow these steps: Press the...
What does the USB error mean?
When you are attempting to play music from a USB device and you receive the USB Error message, then the USB adapter unit is not functioning properly, and may need to be repaired. Tip When you receive this message, the...
Transmission linkage not moving
There is a cable that connects the actual linkage on the transmission to the shifter in the car. If the cable somehow breaks or becomes dislodged it will feel similar to what you are describing. This is a common issues...
What does the PCV valve and hose look like and where are they located?
Hi there. The PCV valve for this particular model is built into the hose assembly. The hose is a larger hose that connects to the intake plenum and runs to the rear valve cover, you can't miss it as it's...
Sometimes my ford transit 250 won't start.
With intermittent conditions such as yours, the challenge is recreating the failure. We can't diagnose a car when it is working properly. The problem does not exist at that time. This could be a bad ignition switch, but is more...
My can satar smoothly but engine died few second..
Hi there. It sounds like you may have an idle air control valve failing. Can you hold the accelerator pedal to keep the engine running? If so, this is the most likely cause of what you're experiencing. If, however, the...
How long does it take to replace a timing chain on a 95 Nissan sentra
Hi there. Replacing a timing chain really depends on the prep work completed by the mechanic. A good mechanic understands the value of "volume", meaning they don't waste time charging a customer an extra hour or two on projects that...
After driving my car will start no problem, but if it sits fir 8_10 hrs batter is dead. Battery is good,alternator is charging .
The first thing is to never disconnect the battery with the engine running or you may damage computer or charging system due to overcharge condition. If your battery is going dead after sitting for longer than 6 hours then you...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Have Kids
Once Once you have kids, the kind of car you have becomes very important. Suddenly, the amount of space, entertainment features, reliability, safety, and easy to clean interior become the top priorities. Here’s a list of vehicles meant to satisfy...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for Short Commutes
If If you’re lucky enough to have a short commute to work, then you need to consider different factors when buying a used car than someone with a lengthier drive (or more time stuck in traffic). Chances are good that...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Delaware in 2012
Delaware Delaware offers a variety of weather, which means drivers have to be prepared for both the mild and the treacherous. In previous years, the best-selling vehicles have included the Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V, along with the Toyota Camry....