I have a stock '91 CRX that will not start or even crank. I have started troubleshooting, but am a little bit stuck.

I have had the starter and battery tested at the auto parts store and both tested good.

I get 12v at the ignition switch white/black wire when the key is in the on position and also in the start position.

I hear 3 clicks from the main relay when the key is turned.

What to try next?

 

I just jumped the starter to the battery and it cranked. What should I test first between the igniion switch and the starter positive.

I do not get 12v at the starter positive wire when I turn the key.

 

Nevermind. It was the thing that everyone says never goes bad. The starter relay.

In case anyone ever reads this one sided thread.....The starter relay is a black box right above the hood latch release next to the fuse box. If you have the symptoms I had, and tried everything I did, try this:

Remove the hood latch and relay bracket for easy access with a 10mm wrench & 10mm socket. Remove relay from plug. Jumper the white/black wire to the black/red wire. Push clutch and turn the key. Vroom.....hopefully. If not, sorry. Keep trying. You're going to want to go and test the relay to verify it is bad.

 

Man that is odd. I've never had that or heard of that happening. If it happens again check for shorting problems.

 

i know strange, I just replaced the relay and no problem. Then went back to the old one and the problem is there again.