Didn't drive car for 3 days. Wouldn't start on the 4th day. Decided to install a new Diehard battery since the life of the previous one was pretty much up.
Now integ has some difficult starting. If I wait for about 5 seconds
with the key in the on position (power windows function) and then start it
usually works. If I just put in the key and immediately try to start the car, it
doesn't work. My stereo works in both cases. While it's not a critial yet, I'm concerned it will get worse as there are times I won't be driving it for a couple days. Anyone else experience this?

Do I need a new starter? (never replaced)
Replace the battery cables?
Something draining my battery? (stock except for panasonic CD Head unit)
Any other ideas?
Last 30k mile service 2 1/4 years ago...

 

Well it's not your batt or batt cables. If you leave it on the ON possition and then it starts that means it's something with your fuel system. Change your gas filter and see if thats the problem. If not get a can of fuel system cleaner and that should clean up the gas line. Goodluck.

 

Fuel related... I'll try that. Although it runs perfectly after I get it started.

I also consulted with a mechanic who told me it might be the starter,
specifically the metal tabs that the solenoid comes in contact with to
make the circuit connection that supplies power to the starter. Is he
full of it? Have any of you had to replace these metal stabs in your
starter? If so when / how often? I bought it once before and
had him replace those metal tabs, but can't believe it's happening
again after only 2 years when I haven't had this problem for the
previous 8 years I've had my integ. BTW I've also never had to
replace the starter in just about 11 years of ownership (knock on
wood).

 

replaced starter... works fine now...

 

A truthful mechanic, good deal.