[Roverrad95]

Yes, it can. Is the check engine light on?

You are going to get god awful fuel economy. Because the air/fuel mix is not right. It will run either too rich or too lean. It seems like it is running lean. That information is going into the computer, which may cause abnormal shifting. Change the sensor.

 

[Roverrad95]

I didn't see the starting issue.

I still am going to disagree, while it is a closed loop at start up, if the air mixture is still not right, then it can cause abnormal start up.

 

[Roverrad95]

You know, I agree. But I'm proposing something new.

Could be a relay, but could also be fuel pressure regulator. The diaphragm maybe sticking open too long after you shut it off resulting in no/poor fuel pressure to start. but you say it starts fine at first.... weird.