A 97 Honda Accord LX engine vibrates for a few seconds when it turns on then goes back to steady. It also has idle acceleration from starting driving and then back to normal. The engine check light is NOT on. Is it likely the spark plugs or fuel filter needs to be changed or there may be other problems? How shall I start to identify the problems?

 

Since no check engine light, you can eliminate missing as cause of vibration. A 97 w/ OBD2 controls will detect engine missing and set a code/s. Perhaps a brief miss on startup might not set a code.

"idle acceleration from starting driving and then back to normal" description is not understood. Do you mean vibration under acceleration, which stops when acceleration stops?

Any clicking or grinding during turns? This may indicate worn CV axles.

Most likely reason for consistent idle vibration is worn motor mounts, typically front and rear mounts as they are primary to resist engine torque. Following test can be performed safely but requires trusted, competent assistant at wheel while you observe.

1) Put car in D, parking brake fully set, and brakes fully held w/ foot pressure.
2) Rapid throttle input to 1500-2000 rpm, while observing forward motor mount for excessive movement. You can easily detect broken radial rubber supports that fail w/ edge.
3) Put car in R, parking brake fully set, and brakes fully held w/ foot pressure.
4) Repeat throttle pulses and observe rear motor mount from pax side. It is visible below throttle body w/ a good light. Look for excessive movement and possible rupture on upper mount surface.

good luck

 

The problem probably is related to the tune up. I have replaced the spark plugs, PCV valve and air filter. What other parts usually need to be replaced for the Honda Accord Tune Up?

 

Distributor cap and rotor. If original spark plug wires, then inspect for spark leakage w/ water sprayed on wires at night. Any sparks replace the wires.

good luck

 

Is it necessary to replace the spark wires when the replacement of the spark plugs or it depends on the wire conditions?

 

The OEM wires are very durable. I check them as described. There are also resistance specs for wires of 25 Kohms max. If more than that value, they should be replaced.

good luck

 

I like to check and replace the parts one by one and see whether the problems is resolved or not. After a change of the spark plugs, the engine vibration has gone away. The engine hesitation after parking overnight still exits. It feels like it stalls to go to the next gear but only happens after the car sits for a long time. After the car is driven for a while, the engine hesitation will go away. The engine hesitation only happens one or two times after the car stops for overnight. What should I check the next, the spark wire, distributor cap and rotor, engine coolant temperature sensor, fuel filter or what else? What mostly cause such a problem? Can anyone share your experience?

 

When engine is cold, ECM uses preset fuel rates based on coolant temp, inlet air temp and other inputs.

Suggest getting an obd2 scanner that can read key inputs and check them for out-of-range values.

good luck