My '88 Civic hatchback (1.5L, 4 speed manual, base model) has recently started having a very intermittent problem. Every once in a while, it doesn't want to start. It only seems to happen when the motor has reached operating temp, and you shut it off for a couple of minutes, such as when filling up w/gas, or running into the convenience store. Normally, it starts right back up, but every once in a while, it just cranks until the Check Engine light illumines. If you're persistent, and wait 5-10 seconds between cranking attempts, it's always kicked over eventually, but it often takes 3-10 attempts.

The code is #16, which is "Fuel Injector System" which is apparently "defective circuit or unplugged/defective fuel injector." This appears to be the only fuel related code for '88-91 model years, so I'm guessing it could range from anything from fuel pump to injector...its just strange that it does not appear to affect drivability, it just occasionally affects start-up.

Anyone experience a similar problem? What was the resolution?

FWIW, the car often idles high, which it never did until my friend borrowed the car, and said he adjusted the idle screw. (where is that thing, anyway). The car also sometimes lapses into a fluctuating idle, which appears to be a common problem with the Fast Idle Valve, from what I've read on these forums.

Thanks!

Mark

 

Might be the main relay dying out. It's a common problem.

 

i have the same problem, i usually let it run for about 20 seconds idling, (like a turbo car) and it throws the same code i have no idea what it is....but if anyone has any info let annointed and i know...................

 

more than likely it's the main relay as stated before. it's a black box located under the dash behind the coin tray. you can get a new one from honda for 50$. i've also read where people have just resoldered the contacts inside.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by annointed &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">, and said he adjusted the idle screw. (where is that thing, anyway). </TD></TR></TABLE>
the idle adjust screw is a flat head screw on the t.b. right on top of the air intake port.

 

I bought this car for $650 a year ago, as it had a problem w/bucking and stalling once warm (20-30 min of driving). I bought a main relay then, since its such a common problem on these cars as they age...however, I first changed the ignitor and coil, and that solved the problem, so I never did bother to change the main relay. 12k miles later, I still have the MR sitting in a box, in case I ever need to change it.

Sounds like that time could be coming. :D Thanks for the suggestion.

And thanks for pointing out the idle screw, mr. carpenter