Good morning all.

My Protege has been running fine for 10 years. Great car, and 35-40mpg.

About a month ago, the engine will cough and die (or stumble badly, then get strong) when started from cold. Problem hits within 2 seconds of fast idle at start. Engine is fine for 2 to 3 seconds, then nearly dies, then recovers (or doesn't).

But once it starts back up, it's fine the rest of the day. No starting problems, no hesitation, no missing, etc.

No OBD codes are found.

Last week I filled the gas tank and added a can of Seafoam, in case the problem is a clogged injector. No change yet.

Any suggestions on what is making the car die at cold start?

Thanks.
Tom in Connecticut