I am acar (repair/troubleshooting) novice.

I bought a used 91 Accord with 200K+ miles on it
6 or 8 months ago. I had some issues with the engine
cranking, but not turning over,a few times after I purchased it (intermittently)
(which to me I thought was fuel related) but anyway, my "mechanic" diagnosed it
as being FIRE/IGNITION related and replaced the Distributor wires/Sparkplugs-plug wires
and related parts, and got it back running again. For the next few months
it started on the first crank, (but on a couple of occasions, since this reapir, has failed to start
with same symptoms above (but after a few minutes, tried again, and it started)
(I had him pikc it up and keep it a few days, and it NEVER FAILED to start for him...

But to the present....
A couple of days ago, I got in it to drive to work, and when I turned the key..
it kinda struggled, as if the battery was really weak...but did start. (I attributed to the
cooler fall night/morning (frist Frost) of the year and a weak battery, maybe?) Anyway
it sat over the weekend, unused, and on Monday morning, it cranked the same, sluggish
way..but started. Later that same day, when I got in it around noon, I turned the key, it did nothing, no
sound, no clicks; but I had lights, radio, etc. Thinking it was a battery..I had my
co-worker give me a jump, this did not do anything - nothing changed....where should I start?

Remember, I am a complete novice..I know what most of the major components/parts are/do
like the alternator, battery, starter...etc.. but don't always understand or know how they interelate
with one another...

Thanks.

 

I would check that all ends of both battery cables are clean and secure. Also check that both wires leading have a good connection to the starter.

When the starter turn the engine, then there is something wrong with the starter or possibly the ignition switch.

To test the starter (when nothing happens when you turn the key): Have someone hold the key in the start position. Hit the starter with the handle of a screwdriver a couple of times. If the starter turns on and starts the engine, then the starter solenoid is worn out. It is a very simple DIY job and we can post more info on how to change it out.

Does your car have an automatic or manual tranny? The manual tranny has a clutch switch that will disengage the starter if the clutch pedal isn't pressed in.

 

Good call - It was the Starter.....

Great site, will be back here often (well, I hope not too often, cause that will mean I am having lot's of trouble)

Thanks

 

Nah, I'm here all the time and usually trouble free! It's always a good place to hang out and read or BS with other members!