Hard hot starting 2002 Vitara

pr240sx · 05-09-2007, 04:29 PM

Hi there
My first time post here
My new purshased 2002 Vitara 2.0 is giving me problems when "hot" starting.
It simply will not start, engine cranks fine, even if I wait several minutes it will start fine or with some sputering.
Any ideas what to check?

XL7Limited · 05-09-2007, 08:38 PM

do the simple things first. Fuel filter.. new spark plugs.. plug wires..

pr240sx · 05-10-2007, 08:38 AM

Already done that
new fuel filter
new plugs
cleaned all electrical contacts
cleaned PCV
verified EGR operation
verified thermostat operation

XL7Limited · 05-10-2007, 09:04 AM

hmm.. Have you looked at the fuel pressure? May have pump issues..

pr240sx · 05-10-2007, 09:08 AM

wierd thing is that only happens when the engine is hot.
I have no problems whatsoever when cold or slightly warm engine.
I know that could be temp related, if I let the engine to heat soak, it will not start.

XL7Limited · 05-10-2007, 10:01 AM

id look closer at the EGR then..

pr240sx · 05-11-2007, 09:47 AM

checked EGR valve-ok
checked for sparks when hot -ok

Now, I disconnected the coolant sensor and seems to start a little better
RPMS are at 2000 and temp gauge non funtional.
could my problem be that I have a faulty coolant sensor? any tips on how to remove it.
Also, I tried to cause an overheat situation (more on why later) by removing the mech fan
I was trying to foce open the thermostat while changing coolant.
Wierd thing is that the gauge never got past the middle!
Could this be related?

XL7Limited · 05-11-2007, 11:08 AM

hmm.. maybe.... I would think that the temp gauge would go past 1/2 with no fans....

pr240sx · 05-11-2007, 11:13 AM

Does the Vitara temp gauge is a 3 position one or is a full sweep funtional one.
Ie, my Nissan 240sx stock one have the 3 position one: cold, operateration temp, blown headgasket. Where my 240 Volvo has a quite functional one.
What type of gauge does the Vitara have?

pr240sx · 05-23-2007, 09:44 AM

Well, after several test of sensors. I concluded that was the famous cam sensor.
A OEM replacement at my local Suzuki dealer and the little 4 banger is on the road again.
I replaced only the sensor, not the reluctor wheel. Quite cheap too. I was expecting to pay premium at the dealership, only cost 70 bucks for an original replacement!!
So, if you are experiencing a hot, no start, no spark situation, check the cam sensor. The cold water trick helped a lot but was quite agravating just to keep cooling the damn sensor everytime I did a quick stop/shutdown/restart trip.