When my 1988 toyota camry sits for a day or two without driving, the first initial start does not fire-up as I turn the key. I have to hold the key in the start position and the car will eventually start

Question edited for clarity, plus add maker.
Question moved to model category.

Did you disconnect the battery?

Did you reset the security system and engine immobilizer?

How to Reset the Anti-Theft System on a Toyota Camry

Jerry Insurance https://getjerry.com > Car Insurance
7 days ago - Then, hold the key in the turned position for about 30 seconds. At this point, your Camry should recognize that you are using the correct key.
Or on more modern models.

This can be done by either inserting the key into the ignition and turning it one "click" or pressing the engine start/stop button. Next, press the power button on your Camry's stereo and then press and hold the "up" tuning button.
Feb 16, 2021

Toyota Camry: Resetting the Security System - VehicleHistory

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TOYOTA CAMRY SERVICE REPAIR MANUAL 1988 1989 1990 1991 DOWNLOAD

get your car fix right now

It means you could have a trickle coolant leak into a cylinder or cylinders somewhere if its white smoke. When the vehicle sits the accumulated coolant has to be burnt off when started and it smokes. During driving the leak at the moment is probably not big enough to be noticeable when its being burnt off by the engine. If its initially blueish\grayish smoke, then your rings are wearing

replace temputer sensor to fix cold start problem . check for bad alternator and fuses for battery

you ran the engine without oil& youburned it up. you need a new engine

There very will could be a battery drain, but what I would do first, is go to any auto parts, where they will do a battery test for free, could have a bad cell in the battery and not holding a charge.

Turn the key on,but don't start it,and make sure the odometer is showing the actual mileage,not trip A or B.Turn the key back to the off position,then press and hold the trip/reset button.Continue to hold it down and turn the key to the on position.Continue holding the trip/reset button while the mileage flashes rows of zeros until the actual mileage appears again.Release the button,because you are finished .

Are you all the way in Park, if it's an automatic, and have you tried turning the steering wheel while you turn the key? There could be pressure against the lock on the tumbler.

yes you can. some seat fold done and some you have to un bolt ok good luck

Push and hold trip button on dash with key off, turn key on but don't start, odometer will clock down, when it is finished, lite will go off