I have a 98 civic lx, 1.6L, automatic, 150k miles, all stock. It just started today, kind of took a few seconds of cranking before it started(has happened before) than I was driving and it just shut off, no jerks or anything I didn't even notice. Tried to start and just cranked. Forgot my phone so I walked a few blocks to call for a ride, ride came and went to the car and wanted to have him listen for the fuel pump and it started right up. Than later started it and let it run, it died and wait a bit and it starts again........ Any ideas?

The car was stolen 2 weeks ago so it does have a busted column but hasn't gave me problems, I installed a fuel pump kill switch, and I did test that and it's not it.

 

coil pooping out? feel the case of the distributor when it dies. id bet its hot enough to cook an egg.

 

Got to work today, started it and it died about 10 mins in. This time it started very shortly after and the dizzy was not hot.... So back to square one. I'll search but off the top of anyones heads do you know the parameters of the crank sensor or have any other ideas to check

 

Check your ignition wires for any pin holes over the distributor. If there is a hole the sparks arc over the distributor and causes the symptoms you are experiencing.

 

Main relay or fuel pump/fuel pump relay is the cause.

 

well instead of buying a $50 relay im going to yard tomorrow and pulling one to try. If it fixes it I will get a new one online to keep incase it happens again as it does appear to be a fairly common issue. still a little hesitant but we shall see.....Ill repost with my findings.

Willing to hear other thoughts in the meantime

 

Well EsotericImage you win!!!! the car ran fine for 45mins with a different relay installed, I will chalk it up as the relay strikes yet another Honda....
I seen the posts but just didn't seem the same issue. Again EsotericImage thank you very much, appreciate it, if you're ever in MN ill buy you a beer haha