So had my 1996 Honda Accord stolen (looks like they drove the heck out of it) and have retrieved it from the impound yard after it was recovered. When I try to start it it turns over well but when it catches fire it is more like it kills the engine rather then start and then resumes turning over but never starts. Pattern repeats. Is it possible through the abuse it could have slipped a tooth or two on the timing belt? It seems like a timing problem to me.

Thoughts?

BTW I really hate thieves.

Thanks

 

Sounds like its out of fuel

 

Maybe. The gauge says quarter tank and I think I hear the soft buzz of the fuel pump for a few seconds when I key the ignition.

 

Put some gas in it before you try again! Modern fuel pumps are inside the fuel tank and use the gasoline to lubricate and cool them. Cranking on empty can easily burn out the pump and it's not an easy or cheap repair. The gauge could be stuck.

Sorry that happened to you, more glad you got it back.

 

So many threads end without a follow up. Didn't want to be another one of those guys.

Spark check revealed no spark on cylinder 1, intermittent on 2, good on 3 & 4. Compression check on 1 through 4... 125, 60, 60 30. The thieves blew it up.

Looking for a new car.

The end.

 

Thank you for the follow up. Dang I am so sorry. Car thieves should be treated like horse thieves: first-rate trial quickly followed by first-rate hanging.

 

Sorry to hear. Hopefully you had insurance on it. Thanks for the follow up.