Since Sunday I have been having a problem with my car. I've been waiting for a check engine light to come on, but it hasn't.
The car doesn't start right away, it will take a few seconds of cranking for it to turn over.
Then when it is started it seems to run fine, with the exception of idleing. It seems to bounce the RPMs a little bit at low idle.
When the engine is warm, it will start up just fine.
Seems the colder it is, the harder it is to turn over.

It isn't the starter because it just keeps cranking the engine until it finally turns over.
The battery just keeps cranking too, so it isn't that...
I'm not due for an oil change.

I am going to change my plugs this weekend, but I want to see if anyone has other suggestions as well.

This wasn't a progressive problem that I have been dealing with. It was all of a sudden Sunday afternoon.

 

could still be battery...my last battery took its own sweet time cranking and cranking the engine on "cold" starts (this was during the summer) and was fine when car had just been run. i'd start there anyway...

 

x2 on battery, and make sure battery cables are connected tightly with no residue on the posts. Thick old engine oil could be another reason on hard start.

 

x3 battery

 

parts stores will test your batt and charging system for free!!!
just because it cranks doesnt mean its ok- you said it was very slow

cold can zap a battery without warning, and the extra loads placed on it in winter with more use of headlights, seat heater, maybe cabin fan on higher speed etc..all take a toll

waiting for a CEL--thats an interesting method but do you want to be sitting on the side of the road with a dead battery? or maybe something way worse?
and CEL not likely from batt, maybe when it takes out the alternator too,,,

parts stores also do code scans for free- just to se if there are any hidden ones
If batt is way low on power it can give many false codes too

 

suggest Seafoam thru master vac port before plug change- put in with rpm above 1500 to 2000 is good
see our diy for how/where but use www.seafoamsales.com tech section for info on fuel injected cars--read and follow the 2000 rpm method- it works best

then install NGK Iridum IX or NGK Platinum spark plugs
lazer edition not needed but if you want to pay even more,, Irids about 8 bucks each
dont try to use cheap plugs- wont work in the TL

 

let alone cold weather puts more demand on the battery, because when engines are cold, they are harder to turn (especially with thicker oil)

and the capacity of the battery is reduced at the same time also


you and seafoam :shakehead lol

 

It was the battery. Thanks!