Why is my 1985-1988 Chevy Nova hard to start or low on power?

Short answer: The 1985-1988 Nova is a Toyota Corolla underneath. Hard starts usually come from the choke, plug wires or carburetor. Low power after a smog test points to ignition timing; set it per the underhood label. An exhaust smell in the cabin needs an exhaust leak check right away.

Symptom: It needs several tries to start, feels weak, or smells of exhaust inside.

What to check first

1. Watch the choke plate on a cold engine; it should close, then open as it warms.
2. Inspect the plug wires for cracks and replace old ones.
3. Check ignition timing using the underhood label's procedure.
4. For an exhaust smell, inspect the exhaust system and the recirculation door seals.
5. If it still runs poorly, have the carburetor checked.

Likely causes

1. Choke not working. The choke richens the mixture for cold starts. If it sticks, the engine needs several tries to start.
2. Worn spark plug wires. Old wires leak spark, especially when damp.
3. Ignition timing off. Timing that's set wrong robs power. The label under the hood gives the setting and says which vacuum hoses to disconnect first.
4. Carburetor wear. Worn carburetor parts make starting and running uneven.

What it usually costs

Owners didn't post prices. Plug wires and a timing check are low cost; carburetor rebuilds and exhaust repairs vary, so get a quote.

Is it safe to keep driving?

An exhaust smell inside is a carbon monoxide risk. Don't drive with the windows up until it's found. A hard start alone isn't dangerous.

DIY or shop?

Plug wires and choke checks are DIY. Timing needs a timing light. Carburetor rebuilds suit experienced DIYers.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Recalls: NHTSA's recall lookup returned no data for the Chevrolet Nova for 5 model-year queries on 2026-10-28, so we couldn't confirm recalls here. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If your car is part of a recall, the dealer fixes it for free.
• Plain words: NHTSA's online data for these years is limited, so owner experience carries the most weight.
• NHTSA complaints: 11 keyword-matched complaints for Chevrolet Nova 1985–1988 (of 30 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-28; keywords: start, exhaust, smell, fume, power, stall, emission) (NHTSA returned no data for 5 model-year queries). This counts complaints that mention these words. It is not a defect finding.

What owners report

• In 88 nova takes two or three tries to start engine on Car Talk, a 1988 Nova took two or three tries to start. Members suggested checking the choke, the plug wires and the carburetor, and pumping the gas pedal once before cranking.
• In Reduced performance after emissions test. 1988 Chevrolet Nova on Car Talk, a 1988 Nova with the Toyota 4A-LC engine felt down on power after a smog test. Members said to check the ignition timing at the label's spec (they cited 5 degrees before top dead center with the vacuum hoses disconnected). No final fix appears in the posts we could read.
• In 88 nova with air on recirculate.. still smell exhaust coming inside on Car Talk, a Nova owner smelled exhaust with the fan on recirculate. Members said to check the recirculation door seals and inspect the exhaust for leaks.

Quick tip

Since it's really a Toyota, Corolla parts and know-how apply. Set the timing exactly the way the label says before chasing anything else.

Vehicle focus: Chevrolet Nova, 1985-1988 (front-wheel drive, built with Toyota).

Safety / mechanic note

Exhaust in the cabin is dangerous. Verify with a mechanic.