I have a 1998 Honda Accord Coupe (automatic). Within the last week it has, twice,cut off on me and then start right back uplike nothing happened while I was driving in traffic going at least 40-50 mph. Both times, when I slow down to about 20 mph, it would just cut off and stay cut off so I would have to pull over on the side of the road. It would not crank back up until abouta minute later. It would not make any sounds or do anything different before it cuts off. However sincethis has happened the carwill sometimes stay "idled" up for a long time, its a little louder than usualand the rpm needle will jerk up and down quickly. All that happens when I first crank it up, park it, or sit at a traffic light.For about the last year though, it will violentlyjerksometimes when it is shifting gears or like when I go up a hill or something. Local mechanics have basically acted like that was nothing to worry about. Also, the cadillac converter had some problems a little overa year ago. Could that be it?
It has a lot of miles on it (190,000), but has been fine since I got it over 5 years ago. I am going to the Honda service place on Monday, but I don't have the money to pay them to fix it, barely enough to diagnose it!! I am scared to drive it this weekend. I love my car. I need it to last at least another year. Anyone have any clues??

 

It could be ignition (rpm fluctuations suggest possible ignition problem), however fuel cut-off from bad Main Fuel Relay or failing fuel pump can cause similar problems.

Does this cut-off happen when fuel level is low? Has Check Engine Light come on at any point? If Check Engine Light has been on, you will need to access the stored codes. Are you up to some simple diagnostics?

In any case, you can probably rule out the "cadillac converter", which is catalytic converter. It would not cause engine cut-off.

You will need some professional help to fix this. It may leave you by the side of the road at any time. I would not drive. Tow charges can quickly add up.

good luck

 

It is probably the electrical portion of the ignition switch. The part alone costs around $60.

 

ignition switch RECALL

 

yes ignition switch. there is a recall on it.

 

Thanks sooo much everyone who replied!!!....It was the electrical part of the ignition switch....I hope my car can make it another year or at least till I graduate.