I'm having some starting issues with my 89 Civic hatchback. I've done a few searches but what I've tried so far hasn't worked, so I'm hoping someone can provide some insight into this problem.

The car cranks, but doesn't start. I figured it was the main relay, since it had given me some trouble in hot weather before, so I pulled it out and resoldered the joints. The car still refused to start, and I still didn't hear the whirring noise of the fuel pump. I replaced the relay with another one, and the new one clicks like it's supposed to but the fuel pump still doesn't make any sound. Now I'm kinda stumped as what to do next.

-Car cranks, but no start.
-Replaced main relay, clicks when key is turned but still no sound from fuel pump.
-Checked for blown fuses and bad grounds, didn't find any.
-No CELs or ECU codes. CEL comes on and goes off like it's supposed to, ecu gives one quick blink when key is turned, that's it.

At this point, I'm fearing that the fuel pump is dead but I'm really hoping that it's something else. Preferably something easier and cheaper to deal with! Should I try another main relay? Or should I just buy a new fuel pump? Thanks guys!

 

bump

i am having a similar problem

 

since you have an 89 it should be really easy to pull the fuel pump and test it directly.

 

pull it from the tank?

isnt that a bitch to do?

 

check pump... If you not hearing it come on doubt its workin gotta drop tank to install

 

on my 91 i had to drop the tank but its easy. just yank the back seat disconnect the sender plugs, pull the filler,vent,and fuel lines, drop the tank via the 2 straps. im not sure but i think i read somewhere that on the 88-89 you can just access it from under the back seat, but dont quote me on that. if it is true, its even easier.

 

Need help as well. Similar problem on my '91 CRX and replaced the fuel pump, same results... Good luck

 

I did the 3 tests on the main relay harness, and I get about 12v on the first two tests, but the third test gives me a -0.01 reading? (on the blue/white wire.) Is it supposed to be like that?

I also tested the voltage on the fuel pump connector and it reads about 12v when the key is turned. Still no signs of life from the pump though.

Are there any other tests that I can run before placing my order for a new fuel pump? It just seems weird that the pump would go out so suddenly, but if I have to change it then so be it...

 

sounds like all signs are pointing to your pump... If your hearing the rely click open and closed and car is just cranking no start and your not hearing the pump kick on I would change it. Try to find a used one on here I got a 255 coming and would give you my old one but it will be next week for i take it apart

 

Your relay will click and the pump will prime, and it will click again then the pump will stop until you start the car. Honda pumps give little warning, they like to just die.

 

I double-checked the electricals of the car again, and everything passed the tests described in the service manual. Got a bit fed up with the whole situation, and tried whacking the rear seat area above the fuel tank/pump with a rubber mallet. Oddly enough, the pump started working again! Feels nice to have the car (mostly) working again.

I'll still change out the fuel pump sometime soon, just to be safe. Thanks for all the help everyone!


Modified by Jooleeus at 7:16 PM 7/5/2008

 

Just wanted to let everyone know that replacing the fuel pump fixed my problem. It wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be, you don't even need to completely drop the gas tank to replace the pump. Just support the tank with a jack, loosen and release the straps, disconnect the two fuel lines connected to the pump bracket, then unbolt and lift out/replace the pump assembly!

 

Have you check your BATTERY, STARTER, DISTRIBUTOR?
it might be one of those.

 

If you have the time, take out the fuel pump and hook two wires to its positive and negative then touch each to the battery and see if it spins.