Hi, I just bought an 87 Civic standard 4-door. It has 148k on it, and just a couple of minor problems. Until now.

When I try and start it, it just makes a click. I've determined it's not the battery or the ignition switch. It's either the starter or the selenoid, but I don't exactly know where these things are on the car. Futhermore, it's not in a spot I can get under it right now, so if it's fixable without having to get under the car, that'd be an awesome thing to know before I try to move it.

So, basically, I need to know where the starter/selenoid is on an 87 Civic. Thanks guys

 

The starter is on top, toward the back, where the engine meets the transmission. Rather simple to reach. It's held on by two bolts-- the one underneath you will need to remove by feel with a socket and 6 inch extension. The solenoid is usually considered part of the starter, replace as a unit.

A seized engine will also cause a clicks but won't start situation. Try turning the engine (counterclockwise, which is the direction it normally rotates) by hand with a socket on the bolt on the crank pulley. Since it's a manual you could also roll-start it to make sure everything else is OK.

 

I can push start it so it's definitely not the engine. Thanks man