Won't always start... Service engine light.
 

Hey guys... I am new to this site and was hoping that you could help me out here. I bought a used 1990 Honda Civic SI hatchback and I am having some troubles.

Typically when I start my car the Service light comes on for about 3 seconds and goes out (normal). After a short trip when I try to start the car again and turn the key to accessory power the service engine soon light will stay on for up to 5 min and my car won't start. The starter runs when I turn the key but it won't start. I am able to push the car and pop the clutch to get it to start. If I wait for a while (while staring at the light with a very intense focus *jks*) I hear a small click the the light blinks, then it sounds like a full relay click from under the dash and the light goes out. Then I can start the car.

What is going on?

I spoke with the local honda dealer and they thought it was the remaining components of an aftermarket alarm and engine immobilizer but I replace the alarm with a new one and all new components and it is still a problem. I have it booked into honda to see if is is storing a code for thursday but it is going to cost me a mint so any help would be appreciated!

Thanks!

you know you can take it to advance autoparts or autozone to get the codes pulled, right? For FREE!!! :D

yeah get in the zone.

autozone!

when the light comes on..... just come in.....





pepboys has everything you need for less!

Sounds like a plan... but I have no autozone in my town.
Isn't there a way to connect a jumper wire and count the flashes or something? I know I could do that on my 88 Chev S10.

Not too sure if it works on EF's, but here you go:
http://www.honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=1901557

Sounds like a bad main relay, which provides power to the fuel pump.

A 1990 Civic has an OBD0 ECU, so AutoZone can't pull the CEL codes with a scan tool. But don't worry, you can easily pull the codes yourself:

Attachment 18570

Thanks for the info on the codes! I will take a look after work...

Here is a picture of the relay that is clicking... it is located on the drivers side under the dash just behind the door hinge. Is this the main relay?
Attachment 18569

The diagram below shows the location of the main relay. Yours is located equivalently on the left side.

Retrieving code 16 would verify a main relay problem.


Attachment 18568