I have a 1998 honda prelude SH. I recently changed my starter because car would start correctly.
--When I would turn the key to the start position absolutely nothing would happen. I would hold it there for a few seconds and sure enough after three to five seconds my car would start like normal.
-Even with the new starter it still takes a few seconds to start and sometimes it can take like twenty seconds, I try hitting the starter to see if thats the problem.
--But its not the thing that has been working lately is I SHAKE MY CAR while I try to start it and it turns right on.
What could it bee a bad connection? any help would be appreciated

 

i would check your starter relay

 

try the battery connections too maybe?
it happened to me

 

what he said is something i would try first. make sure the bolt on the starter that holds the cable on is tightened completely. check all your grounds to be sure they are not loose

 

Make sure your connections are not corded too.

 

i had a similar problem (minus the shaking) on a buick that i have and it turned out to be the actual ignition switch on the steering column...so thats another thing to think about. Of course..that was a buick, not a honda =]

 

try the main relay, you might be able to resolder the dry joints or just replace it.

Also igniton switch is another culprit.