My 1993 850 GLT (non-turbo) has a starting problem in cold weather (below 0 C). It turns over and runs for a few seconds and then quits. After I repeat this 5 or 10 or 15 times, it finally stays running. After that, no problems, no stalls and seems to run perfectly.

I actually have to turn the key all the way to off and back on for a retry.

The engine does not respond to my foot on the gas pedal during these first few seconds. It's like the fuel system is doing its own cold weather choking but it is not working very well?

Tried so far - 1) changed oil from Mobil-1 10W30 to Mobil-1 0W30. 2)Checked and cleaned air filter and checked hoses. The Intake air pre-heating unit seems like it is stuck but it is stuck in the position where cold air is blocked, so I don't think that is it (I'm going to replace it anyways).

Any clues on what to try next is appreciated. There are no fault codes! (Fenix 5.2 1-1-1). Intake air temperature sensor? Fuel pressure regulator? Idle air control valve?

Thanks!

George in Indianapolis (93 Volvo 850 190K miles)