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View Full Version : 1996 Honda Accord LX will not start sometimes


DREWSKI39
Sep 18, 2007, 08:40 AM
Hey All,

Any advice is greatly appreciated! I have 1996 Honda Accord LX. Every now and then (during the last couple months) my car will not start. It won't crank over or nothing. I've tested the battery and seems to be fine. I even thought it was the alarm/killswitch but there are no clear indications of that causing the problem either. On two occasions, the car started after jumping it. On another occasion, it started after letting it sit for an hour. I've also noticed that my dash lights will flicker on and off from time to time. My check engine light also turned on a couple days ago. All signs point to the battery but like I said, I've tested the battery and it seems to be in good standing still. My friend mentioned the starter relay or the starter itself. Does anyone know would it could be and what would be the easiest way of finding out? Thanks!

TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 18, 2007, 08:59 AM
I'd begin by removing the battery, placing it on a charger, and cleaning battery terminals and connectors. After placing the battery on a charger, and watching the ammeter, you'll immediately know whether the battery is the culprit or not. You need to be able to positively rule the battery out.

Next, I'd check all under-dash and under-hood fuses with a test light or multimeter. Here's how:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-3.html#post252145

Always begin any electrical troubleshooting by properly testing all fuses and ensuring the battery is good. This is very important. You need to establish a "known-good baseline." Then, you move out from there with your Fluke DMM in one hand, your wiring diagram in the other, and a positive attitude.