I have a 92 Accord LX - replaced engine (2.2) had it running and then a day or two later the car will not start. It turns over all day long or until the battery has no more juice. I had the coil checked it is working but I can not see an spark. I ran through the series of tests for the Main Relay (replaced after the original failed two tests but not sure if that was a problem) and the fuel pump appears to be working but only after I attach a jumper wire to number 5 & 7 terminals. When I just turn the key on without turning all the way so the starter engages I do not see the Check Engine Light luminate (like you would if it is doing self diagnostics). I am at a loss - not sure what else to check. I pulled the carpet back to access the ECM but there are no LEDs or lights to see if the thing is working or what codes it is flagging. Anybody have any ideas what to check next?

 

I'm thinking Ignition switch (column mounted).
Both this and the 5th gen's had recuring issues with the ingintion switch; to the point (actually) that Honda issued a recall for several years.
Does the ECM CEL lamp illuminate with the key in the "Run" position?

P

 

What about the ignotion module inside the distributor? Worked for me.

 

P_Adams - Sorry but not sure where ECM CEL lamp is? Also the With the main relay plugged in and the key turned on I checked the fuel rail for ruel at the relief valve and there is no fuel there. I had my son turn the key while checking for fuel at the fuel rail no fuel came up like the fuel system was not pressurized.

 

93_Accord-Pom - The distributor is fairly new. 2 months maybe

 

sounds like a bad main relay or clogged fuel filter....or possibly a failing fuel pump

 

Quote from P_Adams - Does the ECM CEL lamp illuminate with the key in the "Run" position?

No it does not. Not even upon trying the key to start the engine.

 

I have already replaced the Main Relay thinking the same thing and also by putting it through the tests described in the Haynes manual - This did not help. Also with the key turned on and the main relay plugged in (no jumpers) I do not hear the fuel pump making noise, but I do hear the pump when the jumper is applied in the wiring harness. In addition to that I went under the hood and hear a hissing noise (kinda like a vacuum noise) with the jumper applied. Is it possible I could have a ECM problem? How can I verify a bad ECM?

 

-not trying to be funny- but my sisters 97 accord coupe had the same problem she replaced her fuel pump,fuel lines, adn the distubter..after spening 500 dollars trying to fix the problem and it was just the spark plugs kinnda retarded...but yeah if i where i check the small things out first....(not saying u havnt already)

 

I am not taking anything as funny this thing is driving me to start thinking about drinking - on a serious note though - When I did the engine swap I did replace the spark plugs. It was running for a couple days then all of a sudden it won't start. Weird thing is the Check Engine Light doesn't even come on when the key is turned on - that's what makes me think it maybe an ECM.

 

I'll stick to my first suggestion, thanks

P

 

I will certainly explore this - Is there a way to test it?

 

Sounds like you have more then one issue, if your not having seeing the spark check the distributor, and obviously if you are not getting fuel to the rail its either a bad pump or a clogged fuel filter

 

Very possible it's the ignition switch, since the Check Engine Light does turn on then off when you turn the ignition and you already replaced the main relay. See troubleshooting in this link:

http://techauto.awardspace.com/ignition.html

To test ignition switch, steps are at this link:

http://techauto.awardspace.com/ignitionswitch.html

 

have u checked the oil again? i kniow its basic but it could be the problem.

 

Sorry it took me so long to post again but here is the story - I replaced the ignition switch. When I turn the key the check engine light does NOT light up. The battery, oil, and SRS lights do light up. I do NOT hear the fuel pump. The car does turn over so the starter is trying to do it's job. I am at a loss. Is there any way to know if the ECM is working or not? I do not see any LEDs or other lights on it to know for sure. Guess I really dont know where to look on it. I pulled back the carpet on the pass side floor board and it appears to be mounted to a kick plate with a couple holes in it but no lights whatsoever. I need some help here.

 

Check the ECU grounds.

http://techauto.awardspace.com/ecu.html

 

You hit the nail on the head - I checked it and dang it was loose - I tighted the bolt down and the car started right up. Thank you very much!!!

 

Great! A lot of people forget that one ground due to its location. Have a good weekend.