Crank no start issue after installing aftermarket stereo

2005 HONDA CIVIC
218,000 MILES • 1.7L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
VANESSA SPAKE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hey all, my husband and I have the car listed above that just won't start. My husband installed an aftermarket stereo system and went to turn the key over it started then made a loud pop and shut off. After it shut off it still has power and now it just cranks. Upon inspecting the main things a car needs to start we noticed the fuel pump wasn't engaging. Replaced that and relays its now engaging but there is no fuel in the fuel rail. We've scanned it many times and it threw a code for the dual solenoid on the transmission. Tested that and wiring they worked fine. We've cleaned and tested grounds, checked fuses, spark, timing, starter and alternator. Starting to wonder if it's not something to do with the ECU. The check engine light comes on sometimes.
Jul 18, 2021 at 12:18 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Just to clarify you have installed new fuel pump and relays, right?
And you are getting no pressure to the fuel rails.
The ideal pressure should be 40-47 PSI.

When the engine light come on what code is it showing? Let me know the exact code number.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Did you verify you are getting spark to the plugs?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

You could still have a faulty wiring somewhere, which preventing the car from starting.
Could even be a faulty PCM.
I have attached a fuel system electronics diagram.

Let me know what you find.

Thank you.
Jul 18, 2021 at 12:56 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,327 POSTS
From the description the first thing I would do is check all the wiring of that stereo, it is very easy to have a wire running to the wrong place on many aftermarket units and if it was sending power or ground to something in the ECU through the signal bus or something like that it could have damaged it or the body module. Especially as the failure occurred the instant it powered up and now items that are controlled through it are not working. Even using the plug and play harness systems can be a problem if the vehicle is like yours and is actually two different vehicle designs, the 4 door version is a Japanese design while the 2 door is a US design. Attached are the sedan and coupe radio wiring diagrams. perhaps look those over while checking the wiring. I would also check the two fuses in the system as fuse 8 also powers other systems than the radio and it's possible it has an issue.
Jul 18, 2021 at 1:04 PM
Avatar
VANESSA SPAKE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
New fuel pump and relays yes. The codes it scanned were P0966, P0962, and P0963. Those codes are all for the pressure control solenoid. Scanned again today and no codes popped up and no engine light this time. Tested spark it's definitely there. Thinking there might be a blockage in the fuel line itself or the filter. Doing a pressure test tomorrow. Could it be the fuel pressure regulator?
Jul 18, 2021 at 5:50 PM
Avatar
SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
If you don't have the proper fuel pressure then it could be the fuel pressure regulator.
Let me know the outcome of the pressure test.
Thank you.
Jul 18, 2021 at 11:14 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.