Hey, guys. I should know this but I just can't remember. Does a 1998 Civic have a starter relay or is it part of the main relay? I have a Civic that won't crank. The starter is good, I was able to confirm it with my power probe. Also, I checked the ignition switch and it tests good too. But, I'm not getting power to the starter solenoid when turning the ignition to start.

Thanks!

 

It looks like they do. Also check the clutch interlock switch and ground wire.

 

automatic = no
5spd = yes

 

If it's manual, a very common problem is for the plastic pad at the top of the clutch pedal arm to break apart and fall out. Then the clutch interlock switch doesn't get pressed when the pedal is down and the starter won't work.

The starter cut relay is mounted on the side of the car under the dash near the switch at the top of the clutch pedal arm, but the relay itself is rarely the problem.

 

I have literally tested every other possible thing. The pad is a common problem. It happened on my NSX, That was one of the first things I looked for. I've tested the ignition switch for continuity and it is good. The starter is good too. I'll have to find that starter relay and try replacing it. I'm at a loss if that's not it.

 

Tested the clutch switch by disconnecting it and jumping the pig tail. That didn't do it. I've checked all the grounds that I can think of but I did notice the speedometer acted weird when driving the car ( after pop starting it ). It made me think there was a bad ground but all grounds check out.

 

Bad starter relay is possible. I'm pretty sure mine was going out, but I just ended up bypassing it.

It has a good amount of current going through it (note the size of the wires are like 10ga). Any corrosion or wear can cause a bad connection and it won't crank if the starter can't get enough juice. The problem is exacerbated when everything is heat soaked under the hood.

 

Its possible but its rare that this relay goes out. Since it is almost a 20 yr old car it could be possible but still, troubleshoot.