1999 accord, 3L, *6 cylinder, *EX , Auto, over 180,000 miles

About one out of five times I go to start my car it won't start. Then i wait a few seconds try it again and it works. This has been going on for about a week. The check engine light blinks on for a moment as I start the car, then goes away. it's not the starter because I can hear it turning strong. And it's not the battery. *The last time it happened I hit the gas peddle while revving the engine and got it to start that way.*

If anyone can help diagnose the problem that would be greatly appreciated.

 

When you attempt to start turn keyswitch to On and listen. You should hear main fuel relay (MFR) under the dash click and fuel pump in fuel tank run for 2-3 secs and cut off w/ Check Engine Light.

When you don't hear these sounds, no start is likely. Cause is usually faulty MFR.

good luck

 

I think the common type of failure of the main relay results in the relay clicking but the pump doesn't run.

 

does the green immobilizer light flash when it doesn't start?