Cold start issues

[dav7s.out]

My 2018 Corolla cranks noticeably slower than usual even if it's just been sitting for several hours. While it's definitely worse when the weather was colder, I've even noticed it happening from time to time lately despite the warmer temperatures. Sometimes, it takes a few extra seconds of cranking before the engine finally catches and sputters to life. It's not a complete no-start situation yet, but it definitely feels like it's fighting me. Once it's running, it seems fine, but that initial start is becoming a real headache. Has anyone else dealt with a similar problem with their 2018 or similar generation? I'm thinking of starting with the battery. But beyond that, what else should I be checking?

 

[Donald2]

Sluggish cranking could mean a weak battery, even if it's not totally dead, you can also check your starter, battery terminals, and grounds, and corrosion or a failing starter could cause slow starts too

 

[theguyyouaskforhelp]

It could be any of those things that @Donald2 mentioned, so here's a good way to eliminate some of them. Get a multimeter and measure the output of the battery when the car is off, anything below 12.4-5 is bad news and you need a new battery. While you're there you can check the alternator, in case it doesn't charge as it should. Start the car and measure again, the reading should be hovering around 14V. These two can help you eliminate or confirm the battery and you might as well clean the connectors. Had corrosion a couple of years ago that completely failed to star my car.