This morning i attempted to start my 89 accord LX (manual) and i couldnt get it to roll over and start.....though it did show signs of starting as it attempted to roll over got a quick 2-3 seconds of "on" time revving to 1.5k RPM's then instantly dying. I didnt check the dash to see if it lighted as i was in a rush, though a friend came over later after i had left and got it running by waiting for the dash lights to come on. I was told by him that its highly likely its the "Key Switch" i was wanting to get some more information on this and if his diagnosis was nearly correct. If the "key switch" is the problem are they a huge hassle to replace yourself or is it better suited to letting a mechanic do the dirty work (amature level mechanic would be my skill level).

Thanks again,
Hisankitsune

 

Check the battery, cables (both cables and both ends) and starter. The 3rd gen's (86-89) don't really have an issue with the ign swtich as the newer ones.....When was the last time it got a tune up. There are two fuel filters on this car..

 

Checked the battery cables (need replaced but definately not the problem) starter looks alright from what ive been told. I was able to get it running again by cleaning the contact heads on the ingition cables....not sure if it was a simple corrosion or oxidation issue. Car hasnt had a tune-up in about 2 years. Two fuel filters?

Thanks

 

I'd def throw a tune up at it.

Yes two filters. One is under the hood, kind of near the brake booster (Secondary). The other is in the back, pull the left/drivers tire, just forward of where the "arm" connects to the body you should see it (Primary).....it's been a while, I think there is a metal "case" around the filter, a screw/bolt hold that ti the underside of the body.

 

Well just today after it had started "working" and i say this loosely i attempted to go fishing (big mistake) and got stranded about 250ft from the parking lot when all the dash and engine electronics (all the gauges stoped reading) just went out (i was still driving) so i randomly turned the key to the 3 position and the car ran beautifully.....but i had to hold it in 3rd position to even get the car to run.

im begining to think this is an ignition issue for a number of reasons...
A) the key alarm still dings when the key is out and the door is open
B) the dash lights only come up if the key is held half way to 3rd position

 

Problem was identified to be the ignition switch, there was a melted contact that needed resoldered to the switch. (Replaced) The thought of turning the car into a push button start definately crossed my mind, wondering how hard it would be to change it over.

 

Not too bad, had one that I drove around for a couple of weeks that was "hot wired". Only use the key to "unlock" the steering. Being an LX (assuming 4 dr) there should be an open slot where the LXi sun/moon roof switch would go....