View Full Version : Honda accord 1998
98accord3x
Sep 14, 2009, 11:16 AM
Hi everyone I'm new at this so sorry if I mess this up. I have a 1998 accord coupe ex. My car does not always turn on. I'll drive it to the store about 30 minutes. Come back home. Then about 5-15 minutes later I'll have to drive again. But this time the car won't start. I mean the power ( lights, radio... ) turn on but the engine won't. I also noticed that when the car does not turn on the immobalizer system indicator light DOES NOT turn on also. I'll have to wait about 5-15 minutes then try again. The car does turn on and so does the immobalizer system indicator light. Please help because this is happening more and more often :mad: thanks
TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 14, 2009, 12:01 PM
I don't have a high degree of confidence that I can pinpoint the problem in your case. Immobilizers really complicate the picture. I believe the problem resides either with the immobilizer system or with the basic ECM. When the immobilizer light does not come on, perform the K-Test on the ECM--it may indicate that the computer is intermittently failing. Other than that, I don't feel qualified to advise.
The K-Test: Remove the MAP Sensor connector and turn the ignition switch to ON (Position II). Using a multimeter, check for 5 volts going between the MAP Sensor connector's reference wire (+) and ground. As you look at the connector, this is the socket on the right. Really press the black test lead into a cleaned main ECM ground on the thermostat housing. If the voltage is low, it's probably indicating ECM failure. Most failed ECMs will record a fraction of a volt. To me, the K-Test is simple, elegant, and accurate.
Here's what your MAP Sensor looks like:
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/catalog/parts/partsShelf.jsp?categoryDisplayName=Engine+Manageme nt&fromType=parts&fromString=search&parentId=59-0¤tPage=1&filterByKeyWord=map&isSearchByPartNumber=false&navValue=15900127&categoryNValue=15999999&fromWhere=&itemId=127-0&displayName=MAP+Sensor&searchText=map
There's also a possibility the main relay could be the problem. Have you noticed if the problem only happens in the heat of the day? Hondas are known for main relays developing cold solder joints.
98accord3x
Sep 14, 2009, 12:26 PM
hi everyone i'm new at this so sorry if i mess this up. i have a 1998 accord coupe ex. my car does not always turn on. i'll drive it to the store about 30 minutes. come back home. then about 5-15 minutes later i'll have to drive again. but this time the car wont start. i mean the power ( lights, radio...) turn on but the engine wont. i also noticed that when the car does not turn on the immobalizer system indicator light DOES NOT turn on also. i'll have to wait about 5-15 minutes then try again. the car does turn on and so does the immobalizer system indicator light. please help because this is happening more and more often :mad: thanks
Forgot to mention that that the immobilizer light is the light that comes on fior two seconds when I put the key in. its just a green light that looks like a key.
98accord3x
Sep 14, 2009, 12:34 PM
forgot to mention that that the immobilizer light is the light that comes on fior two seconds when i put the key in. its just a green light that looks like a key.
Well it does happen after I drive only after I drive and the engine is hot and I turn it off and go back to turn it on a couple mintues later but I do park it out in the sun. so it does happen on hot days. I've only had the car 6 months and in the cold this never happened.
TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 14, 2009, 12:38 PM
Here's what the main relay looks like for your 6-cylinder Accord:
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/catalog/parts/partsShelf.jsp?categoryDisplayName=Electrical+%26+ Lighting&fromType=parts&fromString=search&parentId=57-0¤tPage=1&filterByKeyWord=main+relay&isSearchByPartNumber=false&navValue=15701618&categoryNValue=15799999&fromWhere=&itemId=1618-0&displayName=Relay+-+Main&searchText=main+relay
It's located left of the steering column on your Accord. Turning ignition key on and off will help you locate the main relay, by allowing you to hear and feel it "click." Main relays often have 7 wires going to them.
98accord3x
Sep 14, 2009, 12:44 PM
No I got a v6.
TxGreaseMonkey
Sep 14, 2009, 12:52 PM
If you think your problem is heat-related, I'd try replacing the main relay first. Hondas are notorious for main relay problems. Disconnect the negative battery cable, after recording any radio codes, before beginning work.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of a great car:
https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563.html#post219991