Problem cranking a 2000 Acura TL with 160k miles. Starts from cold start and if restarted within 10 minutes of running with no problem but if recranking after car has been off for between 10 and 20 minutes, it doesn't want to start (as if it isn't receiving gas). To force start, I can put it in neutral and pump the pedal while turning the ignition. This works but the TCS and check engine light come on and it idles rough for a minute or two before returning to normal. My wife thinks there could be a correlation between filling up with gas and this occurrence. She says that on more than one occasion it has happened on the next stop after filling up with gas. Not sure if this is something to do with the fuel system or that the duration of her next stop happened to be for just the right amount of time for this to occur. This has been happening for a few months now and my mechanic can't figure it out. He suggested it could be due to changes in the formula for fuel (increased levels of ethanol) since the car was designed. If ethanol evaporates at a higher rate than pure gasoline, perhaps the ECU thinks enough fuel is still in the firing chamber (or whatever it's called) when there isn't. ??? Specifics about the car: all stock except for a K&N air filter which is cleaned about twice a year and we only use synthetic oil, premium fuel, platinum plugs, etc. We also perform all factory recommended services on schedule. The transmission was replaced at around 65k miles (under manufacturer's warranty), and then again a month ago (at our cost).

 

Welcome Joshbate, by any chance ....is the CEL light on ?
Your force starting method should not be necessary.....and when the TCS and CEL light comes on, does it go back out ? There should be some stored codes that may help to troubleshoot the problem. Take the car to any local auto parts store for a free reading check of the codes and then tell us what they are.

Perhaps something with the fuel pressure from the pump or regulator ? A fuel pressure check would help verify if good.