Hard starting

MIKE QUINTON

MEMBER
1997 HONDA ACCORD
2.2L
4 CYL
MANUAL
200,000 MILES

My car is hard to start. Seems like the fuel is leaking back to the tank. I have replaced the pump filter and pressure regulator. When it is hot out I have to turn the pump on three times then try and start it.

Friday, June 29th, 2018 AT 7:51 AM

8 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Yes, this sounds like a weak fuel pump, but to be sure here is a guide to help you test the pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

With vacuum hose disconnected 265 - 314 kPa (38 - 46 psi)
With vacuum hose connected 206 - 255 kPa (30 - 37 psi)

Here is a guide to help you see what you are in for when changing the pump out. With diagrams below on how it will be for your car:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-electric-fuel-pump

Please run down these guides and diagrams and report back.

Cheers, Ken

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Saturday, June 30th, 2018 AT 12:27 PM

MIKE QUINTON

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5 POSTS

Thank you. I just changed the fuel pump with one that is specified for that motor. Once it starts it runs great and does not sputter or anything at an idle.

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Saturday, June 30th, 2018 AT 5:41 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Nice, so that took care of the problem?

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Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 11:44 AM

MIKE QUINTON

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5 POSTS

No, it is still leaking back. I have to turn the key on and off three times to pressure the system. Once it starts it runs great. Even at an idle.

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Tuesday, July 3rd, 2018 AT 4:37 AM

MIKE QUINTON

MEMBER
5 POSTS

The new pump that I installed earlier is what the manufacturer recommends for pressure and flow. It has got a lot of miles and I did not want to cause more problems by adding more pressure.