2003 Honda Civic No Start Oil Cap Off

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GOLDIEBIR
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi! I am looking for a little help with a problem. I took my 2003 Honda Civic DX coupe (with about 52,500 mi) in for an oil change exactly 2 weeks ago. When I went to start it today, nothing at first- no lights, power, anything. After a couple of tries, the dashlights & radio came on, but were all flickering, even with the key off. I waited a few minutes, and tried again, and again nothing came on, except the oil and brake light. When I opened the hood to see, I noticed that the oil cap was missing, and there was oil all over the engine (none in my driveway, though). I checked the dipstick, and came up with plenty of oil. I have driven about 500 miles since the oil change, and have noticed a burning smell, but thought it was the vehicles around me. Any idea what happened to my car? Any guesses how bad the damage could be, and how I should deal with my mechanic? Help!
Apr 18, 2007 at 9:28 AM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Your lubeman didn't do a good job - he may have left off the oil filler cap or not tightened it properly.

Go back and have him clean that mess, get you a new oil filler cap and check your electrical system don't leave till you find out what exactly caused your No start. Think! Oil
Apr 18, 2007 at 8:51 PM

Suggested Repair

Return to the shop that performed the oil change. Have them clean the oil off the engine, install a new oil filler cap, and diagnose the no-start and electrical problem before you leave.

Conversation Summary

A 2003 Honda Civic with about 52,500 miles developed a burning smell and then a no-start with flickering or absent electrical power about two weeks and 500 miles after an oil change. The oil filler cap was missing and oil was sprayed over the engine, though the dipstick still showed oil. The expert said the technician likely left the cap off or loose and advised returning so the shop cleans the mess, replaces the cap, and finds the cause of the no-start.

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