[rlewis4424]

Hello, I have a 1990 Honda Civic that will not start. The radio works, battery is good, I have checked all fuses.

I turn the key and the check engine light comes on for 2 seconds then goes off. I can here a relay click behind the radio first, the main relay click by the fuse panel.

After that, I get nothing. The starter never attempts to turn the engine, I do not hear the fuel pump or anything... just complete silence. Any pointers would be greatly appreciated as I have tested everything that I know to test.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

I know you mentioned you tested the fuses, but it's important to be very thorough--it can save hours of work, frustration, and money. Be sure to test for power through the fuses. It's unusual to have simultaneous electrical problems with the starter motor and the fuel pump. My initial thoughts are focused on fuses and the ignition switch:

. Check all underhood and underdash fuses with a test light or multimeter:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post252145

. Check the ignition switch for wear, pitting, or melting:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post224652

Here's what it looks like and costs:

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/pro...pe=410&PTSet=A

I primarily suspect the ignition switch is bad.

[rlewis4424]

Thank you very much for the information. I retested the fuses, and things appear to be in order. After further review, I am hearing the fuel pump kick and all other electronics (radio, wipers, lights) appear to be working fine. I can turn the ignition and hold it as though I am starting and I can hear the relay clicking and staying closed as long as I hold the key. But it seems nothing makes it to the starter.

Does this make anymore sense?

I have followed your advice to reveal the ignition and I see know signs of pitting or melting. Is there a way to test the ignition to eliminate that?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

You have told me enough, through your actions, that the ignition switch is bad. Replace it and your problems will be solved.

[rlewis4424]

Thank you for your help. I took the starter with me to the autoparts store and had it tested. It comes back testing fine. I replaced the ignition switch and still no dice.

I am correct in assuming that this narrows it down to the main really?

[rlewis4424]

Sorry about the typo, not I am correct but am I correct? I took the cover off the relay, it clicks when power is applied and doesn't smell burnt but I can't see what the contacts look like inside.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

I think the main relay is fine.

Put the transmission in Park and remove the push-on connector from the solenoid “S” terminal. Connect a jumper lead, or preferably a remote starter switch, between the positive battery terminal and the exposed “S” terminal on the solenoid. If the starter motor now operates, the solenoid is fine and the problem is with the ignition switch, neutral start switch, or wiring. Since you replaced the ignition switch, focus on the neutral start switch and wiring.