When you turn the key on but not all the way to start, the yellow check engine light on the dash should come on for 2 seconds (during which time the fuel pump runs) then go out. If the light comes on and stays on, that's a pretty good sign that the main relay is bad.

 

If the problem is more evident on a hot day then in all likelihood it is a "lazy" fuel pump relay. Had the same problem with our 90 Accord, probably the same relay.

 

Well I went out to test my relay this morning after work and had absolutely no juice in the battery. The headlight switch was turned halfway on and drained the battery during the remainder of yesterday while I slept. When I was checking fuses yesterday, I must have bumped the switch or something. Can't think of any reason why I would knowingly turn the driving lights on, but not the headlights as well, especially in the afternoon.

This is turning out to be a real pain the *****. So now I have to borrow a battery charger from my dad and test the relay tomorrow or Saturday.

 

I didn't think about that. I don't remember whether or not the CEL turned off after two seconds. Usually when I start the car, I wait for that before starting it. Is that a bad idea?

 

I'm having trouble getting to the main relay. I could use a little advice on accessing it.

 

It's directly above the handle that releases the hood. It's not that little relay that is the first one you see there, that would be too easy. The main relay is attached to the side of the car by a single bolt at the top. You will need to almost blindly reach up there with a 10mm socket and unscrew it. It is easier to unplug the wires once the relay is detached from the car. If you're having a lot of trouble you can take off the hood release handle and the little bracket with the other relay for better access.

 

That's it? Jeez I've been trying to take dash panels off! that's awesome. Thanks.

 

So I replaced the main relay today and the car fired right up!

Still having issues with the battery light flickering a bit. https://www.hondacivicforum.com/foru...ad.php?t=77989 I was checking the coolant level while letting the car run and warm up and I realized the alternator belt was squeaking. 1st time I noticed that. I'll have to have that replaced, no? Or could it just be not quite tight enough? I checked the ECU for a trouble code while the engine idled between 7-900 rpm but got nothing.

Also I noticed I have a little bit of white smoke coming from the exhaust. The motor has just 200k miles so I figure after than many miles, it's gonna burn a little oil, right? It's not a cloud of smoke, just a small amount.