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Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

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Old 11-03-2015, 06:49 AM
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Default Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Hi All.

I Have a EG6, a 1993 Civic Hatch with a stock B16.

The problem is, my car sometimes just cranks, but doesn't start.

Well, what I have noticed is that the signal to the main relay is not present when the problem occurs. So basically tha's the problem. But what can cause this? The ECU?

I have made a video of the problem. First the car doesn't start, just cranks. Then for the next 4 tries (I just didn't crank). And on the last try (The indications lights dimmer VERY FAST, indicating the relay working, right?) the cars starts normally.

Sorry for may english. Hope you understood.

Old 11-03-2015, 07:02 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Maybe clean the ECU ground wire at the thermostat housing G101
Old 11-03-2015, 07:06 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Check your grounds first
Old 11-03-2015, 07:41 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Thanks for teh fast reply. All the groundings checked. But problem persists.
Old 11-03-2015, 10:07 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Well, what I have noticed is that the signal to the main relay is not present when the problem occurs. So basically tha's the problem. But what can cause this? The ECU?
Clarifying question: The main relay is not putting out power to the fuel pump? Or, it is, and you are suspecting a bad ECU? ..

Have you checked the main relay? Replaced it? Attempted to re-flow the solder joints, *perhaps*?

What you described, it may be due to the English, as you said.. but you seem to be describing a problem with your Main Relay. That WILL cause these to start, intermittently.

It's kind of common on these cars. Even happened with mine.
Old 11-03-2015, 10:45 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Originally Posted by W95civicEXcoupe
Clarifying question: The main relay is not putting out power to the fuel pump? Or, it is, and you are suspecting a bad ECU? ..

Have you checked the main relay? Replaced it? Attempted to re-flow the solder joints, *perhaps*?

What you described, it may be due to the English, as you said.. but you seem to be describing a problem with your Main Relay. That WILL cause these to start, intermittently.

It's kind of common on these cars. Even happened with mine.
Well, I´ve already replaced the main relay (a good one from another car), and the problem persists.

PS. When the problem occurs, the engine check light won´t turn off before crank the engine. When the engine light turns off before, I can crank and start normally. Maybe this information can Help.
Old 11-03-2015, 05:16 PM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Have you tried to pull the CEL codes?
Old 11-06-2015, 07:16 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

Originally Posted by TomCat39
Have you tried to pull the CEL codes?
Yes. But there is no CEL.
Old 11-06-2015, 08:12 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

No CEL code and a solid CEL light on (doesn't shut off) is an indicator that the ECU may be going bad.

You might pull out your ECU and pop the cover. See if you see any blistered components.
Old 11-08-2015, 03:20 AM
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Default Re: Engine Cranks but doesn't start sometimes

If the no start problem is more common on a rainy day or a more humid day it may be a sign that the capacitors in the ECU are on the edge of failing. Moisture and heat over time wear these components out. There are some capacitor replacement kits available on ebay but you have to be a good solderer to install them. You might try to borrow a known good ECU to see if it starts the car.
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