I have a 1991 honda civic dx hatch back and it will randomly not start sometimes. The last time it happen I drove it to work and it sat for 8 hrs. When I went to start it it would turn over but never start. waited about a half hour and then is started no problem. It has done it ever since i owned it.(4 yrs) usually when it happens I don't have to wait that long...maybe 3 to 5 mins. It will also sometimes do it if I stall.

 

It can be any number of things.

The first thing to do is look/listen, when engine does not start, turn ign. on to the run position, [not all the way to start] and listen, can you hear the fuel pump priming the fuel system?

This is what is supposed do happen when ign. switch is turned on.

Cluster lights up, including CEL.

At the same time, there will be two(2) "clicks" from the PGM-FI Main Relay,[very close together so it can sound like 1 "click".

At the same time the fuel pump will prime, you should be able to hear it.

After no more then a few sec. there will be a 3rd "click" from the PGM-FI Main Relay.

At the same time the fuel pump will stop priming and the CEL will go out.

Is all of the above happening? 94

 

I don't remember exactly, but The cluster lights do turn on and and I remember hearing the clicks. The next time it happens I will be sure to listen. Its so strange because as long as I give it some time and wait it will always start.

 

Failing pump? Clogged filter? If all it takes is time, I'm guessing it's having trouble building fuel pressure.