Hi,

My normally flawless prelude's check engine light came on a few weeks ago for an hour then went out. now this past week a weird situation keeps reoccuring.

when starting the car after sitting a while, it starts up right away but dies as fast as it starts. It's as though the ignition turns off as soon as it starts.
The car will only stay running after I restart the car on the third or fourth time.

Any ideas ?

btw.
89 prelude 276,000 kms totally stock. fuel inj

 

so, I did this trick where if the car wants to die when it's cold, i hold the key forward as though im engaging the starter but not enough that it engages which in turn keeps the car running... then after a 10 - 20 seconds, i can let go of the key and it will stay running. if i let go too soon, it dies...

wtf...

 

I wonder if the ignition switch is bad. That's all that I can think of based on your description.

 

how long does it take to start when turning it over? first check your battery voltage, cranking amps, and altinator. the battery may be low making the ignition over work it self.but a fuel problem sounds more like it

Have you had any fuel problems? check fuel pump or filter

 

Check the PGMFI relay, it's under the dash on the driver's side...