Hi, when attempting to start my 97 Prelude Coupe (Auto Trans) I can't seem to get it started! It cranks and everything but no actual engine start.

I tried jumping it and it still wouldn't start, so I'm sure the battery is fine.

Please help.

The car only has 91K miles on it, I can't believe something's gone bad!

John A.

 

There was a recall for the ignition switch a while back, could be a possible suspect.

 

Does it keep clicking when you turn the ignition? or what?

 

No it cranks fine, but just doesn't start the engine..

 

did you check spark?

 

How do I check spark?

 

take the spark plug wire out and ground it against the valve cover, if you got fire, next check for fuel

 

Ok we just did the spark test thing and I do see spark.
So what do I check next? Please include as much details on the procedures as possible. Thanks..

 

check for fuel next and see if your getting fuel

 

I smell fuel when trying to start the car.. What now??

 

take the spark plug out and see if gas is getting to the plug

 

Yes they are getting fuel, I can see fuel on them.

 

well if its getting fuel and spark it should be starting u didnt break the timing belt did u

 

No the timing belt was just changed and it looks fine to me.

 

just for kicks, try picking up a can of starting fluid and spraying that into the intake and/or cylinders, see if that gets it going. worth a shot.

 

Ok found the problem but now I'm a bit upset..

I had to get the car towed back to the shop because
A.) I couldn't find the problem
B.) A mechanic came over my house and told me the timing belt was missing a tooth. (What a knucklehead!!)

However, expecting to have the bill waived because the shop just changed my timing belt a couple weeks ago I just got a call from them and they told me I had bad spark plugs. I certainly couldn't argue with the phone call, I'm not a mechanic. So I just agreed to pay the $85 (including tow) and learn from this mistake.

Yes I did say I had spark because I did! I took the spark plug wires out and inserted ANOTHER spark plug instead of the one's inside my car. THEREFORE, I wouldn't of known if the spark plugs were bad or not. BUT I here's the catch, I just changed them about a month ago!!!! They were brand new!! Which is why I never bothered to thoroughly inspect them. Boy I wish I had inspected them now!!