Weird cold starting issue.

[dman]

The car has problems starting when it has been sitting for a while, but not on the first try (starts right up with very few cranks), but on the second. Noticed recently, when I stalled the car getting out of snow I parked it in. It just keeps cranking and does not fire up. Couple of tries and some gas and it starts and runs normal. Shut it down and try again - same issue, cranks - no start.

After driving and warming up - no issues.

Idles fine just below 750rpm when warm and somewhat higher when cold. No 'Check Engine' lights coming on since I bought the car in the spring. Pulled codes from the memory and got 23 and 49. Smth about Air Flow Sensor. Not sure if these are my codes, will reset the ECU tomorrow and see if those come up again. I am not that knowledgable about cars but I don't see how a problem with Air Flow Sensor would manifest itself only on a second start, on the other hand I can see how opening up a throttle would help starting if Air Sensor is bad. So is it MAF?

Battery is ok unknown age, but cranking speed did not decrease during my attempts to start, so I would guess its okay. Plugs and wires were changed last summer to OEM parts.

Any other ideas?

[ericem]

I would try the cheapest things first. Start with the ECM coolant temp sensor, and possible cleaning the MAF sensor. Betting more on the temp sensor. There are two one for the guage, and one for the ECM. You want the ECM one.

[dman]

Coolant sensor, eh? Ok, I searched for it and came up with similar thread. So I guess you're right. Does it matter whether I go OEM or any local store brand would be fine?

[ericem]

I suggest you stick to OEM. Only like $20.