Hi all,

I have an automatic 1998 honda civic lx , just under 100k miles. In the summer the car starts fine. Once the temps drop under 40 or so, if I turn the key to start car the starter will rotate and after about 3-4 seconds there is brief combustion, then the engine will stumble and die. The best way to start it is turn key to start and let starter rotate for a second, then turn key to off to disengage starter. Then turn key to start again and it will start right up. Key always turns easy, no resistance.

Car runs fine otherwise. If I drive it again within few hours, no issues. If it sits overnight then starting issue returns. Have tried turning key to "accessories" first to get fuel pump to prime first, I can hear fuel pump running, but no change. Also tried some fuel additive to remove any water and fuel system cleaner. I usually keep gas tank at least half full. Replaced battery and starter recently , no change. Starter rotates very strong. Replaced spark plugs, wires, cap and rotor, fuel filter in last 5k miles.

Had car for few years, it's done this the while time and it's never really bothered me, but I'm looking to install a remote start and I think this issue will be a problem since remote starter wont know the little trick. Any ideas? Something related to metal somewhere contracting because of cold? Fuel pump maybe? Something else? Thanks

 

Sounds like an ignition switch problem.

 

Will check that out, thanks!

 

replaced ignition switch but no change unfortunately

 

What CEL codes are stored in the ECU?

 

Try cleaning the throttle body, idle air motor and cold start idle valve

 

I would connect a scanner to it and go to live data and see what the ECT temp reads cold(has not been started) should be around ambient temp and not something wrong like reading 140 F when outside temp is around 65 F and car has not been run or started that morning/ evening whatever. Replace if not reading properly.