So my '94 Civic EX has begun to sound odd when starting. It turns over once, slowly, then fires up. So it sounds like: "Chug - Vroom!" Could it be a battery problem or something more serious?

Thanks in advance!

 

last time you did full tune up?

plugs/wires/etc?

You can get a free battery/alternator test at autoparts stores....or they sell testers. I got an alt tester for $2 at harbor freight....

 

Yea, test your battery, alternator and spark. Also check your mechanical timing.

 

Battery or battery cable/connection tightness/corrosion. Test battery first then cables/connections. Apply dielectric grease to new/clean connectons.

 

Thanks for all the replies, it's good to hear you all think to start with the battery. I haven't changed my battery in at least 6 years. I will look into it, I'll post back with the results as soon as I get it looked at. Oh, and I know I'm due for a major tune-up, but I cannot afford it right now, but such is life.

 

^6 years....
then its definitely your battery....
once winter hits, it'll die on you. better start saving now. expect to spend 100 on a good battery. if you find a 40-50 dollar battery, expect 2 years out of it, tops

 

Yep battery! Thanks again everyone!