The motor on my '93 Civic died while the car was moving. It would not restart. The horn and lights work. Could the problem be as simple as a dead battery?

Does the engine crank, when you turn the ignition switch to START?

If it does, then read this:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...ons-46563.html

When I turn the key, the dash lights are on, but the engine won't crank. The sound it makes sounds like a hiccup (hic)

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Originally Posted by beekee

when i turn the key, the dash lights are on, but the engine won't crank. the sound it makes sounds like a hiccup (hic)

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A lot of the early 90's Civics have an anti-theft device called "The Key" that would cause exactly what you are describing. The system will disable the ability to start the engine when THE KEY is removed from its slot (or it has worked its way out). Check under the steering wheel on the right for a black blade of plastic that pulls out easily. If it is there, pull it out, spray compressed air into the slot, clean THE KEY's connectors, and put it back in.

I hope that that helps:)

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Originally Posted by txgreasemonkey

Does the engine crank, when you turn the ignition switch to START?

If it does, then read this:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...ons-46563.html

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I did notice the oil light went on for a split second before the brake light went on, because those 2 lights usually light up when I turn the engine off. Right before this happened, the car started to lose power so I gave it a little bit of gas. The tow truck guy noticed oil leaks in several places so I don't know if my oil pump failed, seizing the motor, and killing it. According to the dipstick, there's more than enough oil in the car.

If the car won't crank:
1. Clean battery terminals and connections.
2. Ensure battery is fully charged.
3. Check all under-hood and under-dash fuses with a test light or multi-meter.
4. If car still doesn't start, disconnect negative. Battery terminal and clean all starter solenoid connections.
5. If car still doesn't crank, check/replace the starter solenoid/starter motor or ignition switch.*

* This is a very likely cause of your problem.

Someone offered me a scenario that it could also be the timing belt. If it did snap, it would've killed the valves and the car, right?

Yes. Remove the oil filler cap, have someone crank the engine, and see if the camshaft rotates. If it doesn't rotate, the timing belt broke or came loose.