My 1996 honda civic will not start. Was told the fuel pump and filter may need replacement and did so yesterday. Giving me the same problem. Engine may ignite after several extended turns of the key/starter. It seems to give the problem after engine has been started, running, stopped briefly and then started again. No smoke or leaks. Engine does not overheat and runs well once it starts. Help!

If the Check Engine Light comes on and goes off after two seconds, when the ignition switch is turned to ON (Position II), then the problem is likely distributor related. Usually, replacing the Ignition Control Module and coil will solve the problem:

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

I recommend replacing these problematic components on Hondas every 120,000 or 10 years, whichever comes first. If the problem persists, then one or more internal distributor sensors (CKP, TDC, or CYL) may be damaged. This is also common on Hondas, where distributors tend to last 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Simply install the new ICM and coil in a new genuine Honda distributor housing. Over 50% of new aftermarket distributors for Hondas do not work at AMHD.

If you want, perform the tests, in Sections 1 and 2, below:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563.html

All of this assumes the ignition switch is fine.