1992 Honda Civic Lights Smoke, No Start

HONDA CIVIC
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92HONDACIVICCHICK92
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I have a 92' honda civic,Im not sure of the mileage because the speadometer doesn't work!How do I fix the speadometer and the lights dont work at all.I was driving and all of a sudden smoke was rising from the stearing wheel and I went to check the lights and they didnt work.Please help!
Feb 3, 2007 at 5:03 PM
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BRUCE HUNT
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I would check the fuses first, but it appears that the smoke would be from the light switch in the steering. You will likely need to replace it. New or used is your decision. Did both occur about the same time? Check all fuses and while doing so, check to ensure that the fuses are of the right amp. ie don't have a 20 amp in a 15 amp slot. Cheap way to prevent a fire.
Feb 4, 2007 at 1:49 AM
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92HONDACIVICCHICK92
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Would the fuses also prevent the car from starting? I couldnt even jump it today. ):
Feb 4, 2007 at 1:48 PM
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BRUCE HUNT
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There is a main fuse under the hood up by the passenger side usually and near the firewall.
Feb 4, 2007 at 1:57 PM
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92HONDACIVICCHICK92
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okay,thank you.So, I replace the main fuse and most likely the switch,then will my car work again?
Feb 4, 2007 at 2:07 PM
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BRUCE HUNT
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When you say that the car would not start did that mean that turning the key and nothing at all or the battery was dead? I don't want to mislead you and the fuse is a visual thing you can see by looking at it once you pull it out. It is a 50 or 80 amp fuse.
Feb 4, 2007 at 2:10 PM

Suggested Repair

Inspect all fuses, including the main 50- or 80-amp fuse under the hood on the passenger side near the firewall, and confirm each fuse has the correct amp rating. Smoke from the steering wheel likely indicates a failed steering-column light switch that needs replacement. Do not assume fuse and switch replacement will restore starting until the no-crank or dead-battery condition is identified.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1992 Honda Civic reported a nonworking speedometer, complete lighting failure, and smoke rising from the steering wheel while driving. The car later would not start and could not be jump-started. The expert advised checking all fuses for the correct ratings, visually inspecting the main under-hood fuse, and likely replacing the steering light switch. The expert asked whether the key produced no response or the battery was dead before concluding that those parts would fix the no-start.

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