My 1991 Honda Civic is having problems with starting and staying on. When I turn the car on it starts but then turns right back off unless I rev the engine with the ignition still in the on position. Also, it used to sit idle at roughly 1500rpms but now its closer to 200-300rpms so low that at times it will want to turn off. Finally, if I put my foot on the gas and bring the engine to about 4000rpms it will stay constant for about 4-5 seconds then dip down to 3000 or lower before it goes back up to 4000. It will do this every 4-5 seconds sometimes dipping as low as 1000rpms and at times even turning the car off altogether. Any thoughts on what it might be?:confused:

Test/replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM). AutoZone can test ICMs and coils for free. This is a good time to test/replace the coil, while you have the distributor open.

These links may help you:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-3.html#post260436

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-46563-4.html#post265896

I have a 1989 1991 Honda civic both are in great shape but both are having problems the 1991 it is running on 2 or 3 cylinders at times and I did a tune up up and it has not changed the car has lost power intermittently and it has always used a little oil but burns it at consistent rpm of 2000 the car is great other wise.

1989 runs great.. . BUT intermittently it looses power or hesitates when giving it gas I have also done a tune up and timming belt. Anything will help I have noticed around all the wrecking yards all the same cars the distribators where all gone out of the is the what the problem could be thanks

chevy59101, you likely need to replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil in each engine. Apply silicone heat transfer grease to the back of the new ICM.