1981 Honda Accord CRANKS WITH NO START FREQUENTLY

188,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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THERESAROE
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MOST DAYS MY CAR, WHEN OUT AND ABOUT, WONT START (USUALLY WHEN I'VE BEEN RUNNING ERRANDS). IF I LET IT SIT FOR A FEW MINUTES, IT WILL START RIGHT UP NO PROBLEM. EACH TIME I TURN OFF THE CAR THIS HAPPENS AND ON SOME DAYS IT DOES NOT DO THIS. IT USED TO BE 3-4 TIMES A YEAR NOW IT HAPPENS ALMOST DAILY. ANY HELP? WE RECENTLY HAD A NEW TIMING BELT (DONE EVERY 80,000 MILES) AND THE TRANSMISSION (USED, NOT REBUILT) WAS REPLACED LAST MONTH WHICH IS WHEN THIS BEGAN TO BE A FREQUENT OCCURRENCE.
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:56 AM
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KHLOW2008
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Hi TheresaROE,

Does pumping the accelerator assists in getting it started?
Sep 13, 2009 at 2:57 AM
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THERESAROE
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Sorry, this is a 1991 (not '81'). So, pumping does not help (fuel injected). Also, turning key position to ON a few times to 'prime it' does not help. Once it gets started it runs fine, though idle is a bit rough.
Sep 13, 2009 at 3:08 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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For the year model, the most common fault for intermittent non startinmg is a bad PGM-FI main relay. Replacement is not necessary, just remove it and resolder the joints, should get it working perfectly.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/192750_PGMFIRelay90Accord_7.jpg

Sep 13, 2009 at 3:27 AM
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THERESAROE
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Thank you so much, I will try this and let you know.
Sep 13, 2009 at 6:36 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,812 POSTS
You are welcomed and glad to be of help.
Sep 13, 2009 at 7:29 AM
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