Hi:

I have a 1996 Honda Accord LX, 4 Cylinder, 4 Door, automatic with 155,000 miles on it. Twice in 10 days it has failed to start when turning the key. It does not make any noise, the lights on the instrument panel come on - it just doesn't start.

After turning the key 5-6 times, it finally starts. Obviously it only happens every 4-5 days. The other times, it starts just fine.

I have been told it could be the starter or it could be "an electrical issue in the ignition".

If somebody could point me in the right direction as to what the problem might be, and if it is the starter, approximate price to have it replaced. I am not very mechanically inclined and will not be doing the repairs myself - I just don't want to take it in and have them start throwing parts at it in particular since the problem only happens sporadically.

Thanks

 

It could be either a flaky ignition switch, or a flaky solenoid on the starter. If you're not going to do the repair (or the tests to determine which), then I guess you should talk to the shop & ask THEM whether they will test or just throw parts at it.

We can't tell which is causing your problem, we can only help you with the test. But you'll need a multi-meter & some electrical experience.