I have a 1991 Honda Accord with 235,000 miles... runs like a scared rabbit. I've been having problems with it not starting and finally figured out that it was the neutral safety switch and had it replaced. For the past 2 months it takes spells where it won't start. When I turn the key all dash board lights come on but it will not click or turn over. I've been popping the hood and doing a direct hit with a wire from the starter to the battery. If I just spark it, not even letting it fully turn over, I can turn the key and it will start right up. Again, this only happens about every 2-3 weeks and may do it once or even twice in a row then starts fine for several more days. Today while driving, my battery light came on and stayed on while I was driving. After about 20 minutes or so, it blinked a few times, then went out. I would like to figure out what is causing this. After the neutral safety switch was replaced it started fine for several months and started doing it again but this time it was the distributor... that has been replaced. It hasn't done this for a while now until the last couple months. It's a pain when it's raining to have to jump the car with the wire and even more so since I am a woman. Any suggestions? My ex husband said it could be a relay but not sure which one it could be. I was curious as it being the starter, or alternator or a short or something. Now with the battery light coming on and staying on has me bumfuzzled. Thanks for any help or suggestions!

. Remove and fully charge the battery. Most auto parts stores will do this for free.

. Check that the regulated battery voltage is 14 to 15 volts, when the engine is idling. If not, replace the alternator.

. Check/replace the ignition switch for wear, pitting, or melting. Also, check the wiring going to the starter motor. Clean all connections going to the starter motor.

. Verify that the Check Engine Light consistently comes on for 2 seconds and then goes out, when the ignition switch is turned to ON (Position II). If not, the ECM may be failing, which is common on older Hondas.