2008 Automatic Roadster, when turning key for start should one after waiting for pump to cycle release
or hold key firmly on till engine fires.?
My issue is either way often the engine cranks a dozen rotations before firing??
Once started purrs like a baby and runs like a rocket

 

Have the car checked to see if there are any codes stored or pending. Sounds like a defective camshaft position sensor

 

Can I change that sensor myself or is it buried in the engine?

 

That one is the easiest of them all to change right in front of the engine but I recommend you confirm that is the defective part first.

 

DO this:

1) Turn key quickly from OFF to START and release key, let it autocrank and start. If it cranks a LOT to start, then try #2.

2 Turn key from OFF to ACC then to ON, wait about a count of 1-2-3 then turn to START and let go of the key, let it autocrank. If THIS makes it start right up with a lot less cranking, order a new fuel pump and filter/regulator and get them replaced. Both my SE Roadster and my Ranger eventually spit their fuel pumps out, the Crossfire started about like yours, but the truck got to where it would do nothing more than idle.

You can always put a fuel pressure gauge on the car and see what the fuel pressure rise time is when you turn the key on - it should instantly go to 58 psi and not vary much at all when the engine starts. If it rises slowly, again, get a pump and filter/regulator and get them changed.

It can be the crank or cam sensor, but I'd bet that is not it. My experience with my Graphite and SE (both have had crank sensors fail) is that the car will start fine, but quit often when the engine was warmed up.

As always, keep in mind you are getting opinions based only on the few words you typed, not a real diagnosis.