patient:'89 civic dx hatch 1.5 sohc , no mods, all stock

problem:I thought it was the starter, because i used to start it with a couple of hits, i replaced it and worked well for a couple of days, then i replaced the distributor cap, spark plugs, spark plugs wires and battery's positive cable, nothing, today i just bought a new main relay hoping that will fix the issue, wasted money, so i need help.

i put the key on,the engine light goes off like always,it clicks with the key but that's it,no fire,just the evil click, i need help.

 

how is your battery? also check your battery terminals...sometimes when you change the terminals the aftermarket ones arent the right diameter so it may seem like it fits but its not tight enough to give you the proper current to fire the starter...

 

it sounds like your starter silanode, and i know what your thinking about you just put a new starter and all that on. but i have had more then 1 bad NEW starter and 9 diff. alts ( alts all in 1 day ) from 1 parts store. just take the starter off and get them to test it before you buy anything else because i am puting my money on the starter silanode.

 

ive had that click to in many different cars, its always been the battery terminals..

 

Here is an old mechanic trick.

When you turn your ignition key on, pay attention to your temp gauge.

If your temp gauge spikes from cold all the way to hot, you have an open ground. This is a cause of a ground issue.

Check your grounds. If you just replaced your starter make sure all the connections are good and tight.

If your grounds are good then you have a bad starter. Also tapping the starter with a screwdriver will release the solenoid.

I used to buy pep boys starters and got where I was replacing them every couple of months. All under warranty. Finally said screw it and got a factory one. Never had the issue again.

 

Is your car getting spark? You changed your dizzy cap, but it could be the dizzy itself.

 

man that's it, when i installed the starter i left one of the connectors JUST A LITTLE LOOSE, that means that i bought a distributor cap and a main relay in vain.

I'm still a noob.

 

i was close with the terminals, LOL just on the opposite end! LOL glad you got her fixed up but alteast you either have backup parts or a fresh tune up, LOL.

 

the terminals, i always brush those up every time i change my oil with a wire brush,anyway thanks for the tip.
yeah backup parts and because of the way i take care of my car those will be useless in the garage for 5+ years.