ive been having trouble starting my 97' civic recently, but in the past 2 days it gotten alot worse. When i go to start the car nothing happens i know its not the battery b/c the radio n lights still turn on. I believe its the clutch switch, has any1 else had this problem? Any advice is appreciated.

 

What kind of noise does it make when you try to start it? "clickclickclick" or just one click and the lights go out when you turn the key?

 

I only hear the noise once but the radio and dash lights stay on. If i keep trying it after about 5 minutes it will start.

 

It really sounds like a battery problem to me. Even if your dash lights do work, They require a lot less voltage and amps than your starter does. Check your battery terminals and cables for any corrosion or GFS. (Green Fuzzy Stuff) Clean em up real good with some warm water and baking soda. If it still does it than. Have the battery tested at your local parts store, They do it for free and will top off the charge if it is low. This will completely rule out the battery being an issue.

 

ill take a look at the battery terminals but i just replaced the battery a little over a year ago so i dont think that the battery is the problem.

 

I bought a battery a while ago had it for 2 months and my car would not start. It was doing the same thing yours is now. I took it in to get tested and they said it had a bad cell and was toast. It was under warranty so no big deal but, You just never know.