99 max, mileage is 100,000 miles . last month or so it developed a condition where it starts poorly- starter turns over OK, but no start after 2-3 seconds - always lit right off before- no malfunction lights. 2nd try with starting always works- can a mechanic be able to diagnose this? anything i should look for to help him or will it be a parts replacement guessing game??

When was the last time you changed your fuel filter?....if it's plugged up, it'll be hard to get the proper pressure on the first crank. What kind of gas are you using?

fuel filter was changed about a year ago.
Gas varies , maybe that it?

Does it only do this is if you immediately turn the key to start? What if you let the key sit in the on position for a second or two before trying to start it?

Is something pulling on your battery while your car is parked overnight? Have your battery checked and then make sure nothing is pulling on it. I.e. if you have a system, make sure your capacitor isn't getting power while the car is off, make sure your trunk light doesn't stay lit, etc...

I will try that does that run the fuel pump- OI thought the fuel pump only started when the started did???

Battery is full up- turns over great

No, the fuel pump primes for a few seconds when the key is turned to ON. This is mostly to make it easier to start, I imagine, as fuel pressure bleeds down to zero overnight.

I am having the same problem and its been like that for a while and ive changed the fuel filter and it still does it.