HI guys, I have a 1997 Accord special edition with the f22b2 engine, automatic.

I just finished replacing my rear brake shoes, and the right rear wheel cylinder. I bled both rear brakes until I had new clear fluid coming out.

I get in the car to start it for a test drive, and it wont start! The car was running 15 minutes earlier. Car has full power, all lights work, radio, everything. Just when I turn the key to start, nothing happens EXCEPT the brake light come ON. is there an interlock preventing ignition? The master cylinder is full, but was low because I was bleeding it... please HELP

 

so when you turn the key to start, it doesnt click or make a single noise? It sounds unrelated, could be an ignition issue

 

I hear a click. And if I hold it in the start position I hear what sounds like the fuel pump??

I also hooked jumper cables up to my other car to rule out some fluke battery issue. Same thing.

 

Fuel pump should come on the second you turn the key to the first position. You can't rule out the battery in that manner. I have seen numerous batteries with dead cells that would not allow the battery to work even though it was being jumped. have you checked the battery with a multi meter? If you hear a click then the starter is having an issue or not getting enough juice. Most likely a battery voltage problem, cable or connection

 

Checked all cables and cleaned terminals. The fuel pump comes on initially and then stops like normal. Headlights are bright. Just noting when you turn to start. I'm thinking the ignition switched failed, there is a recall for 1997 accords that I just read.

 

yes sir very common problem

 

replaced the switch, Not the issue. car still wont start.

 

When I turn to start position, the BRAKE light comes on and that's it. No clicks, nothing. I find that is very very weird considering all I did was replace the brake shoes, one wheel cylinder, and bled both rear lines.

 

can someone post a picture of their master cylinder cap? Mine has two wires coming off of it that looks like someone repaired them. Maybe their connections failed and it keeps the car from starting?

 

Check your fuses, both the engine bay and the driver side kickboard fuses. You might have a blown fuse or your battery connections are suspect.

Those wires simply tell you when your brake fluid level is low. Its possible if they touched each other they blew a fuse.

 

Did you try and jump it?

 

tried jumping, the battery is fine. however, I tracked it down to the starter motor! Gave it a few good taps with a hammer and she cranked!! Still spins over slower than normal, but its cranked everytime the past few days. Looks like I'll replace that soon.

 

gotta love the coincidental issues

 

If you dont want to shell out the $ for an expensive rebuild, you can sometimes get a brush kit for the starter..and rebuild it. Much cheaper. Or get some brushes from a junker starter.