On rare occasions have to turn key to start position several times before it would crank. No solenoid clicks. Then yesterday it would NOT crank after many tries, including leaving car, locking/unlocking cycles, park/neutral etc., nothing.

Then I tried hand pushing it to a better parking place, car did not want to roll--flat pavement. Only managed to shove it about one inch. Tried again, car fired right up.

Car has since started right up several times since. Any ideas?

 

Faulty, intermittent ignition switch assys are common in many Hondas, but 1998-2002 had a recall on this system I believe.

Confirmation would be absence of any dash panel lights when no-start occurs and checking for 12v on blk/yel wire at distributor connector w/ keyswitch in On position. No power indicates faulty ignition switch assy.

Easy DIY, usually < 1/2 hr. See DIY forum for guidance and look at youtube videos for additional tips.

good luck

 

Thanks! The dash lights stay on w/o dimming during the no-starts.

 

I meant the system lights; Check Engine, Alt, Oil Pressure, etc.

good luck

 

Yes, those warning lights stayed on.

 

when it doesn't start, remove from the starter the power lead(the smaller one not the bigger one coming from the battery) and test for 12v....if none put that lead back, then jumper with a paper clip the clutch switch connector(if manual) or neutral safety switch connector(if auto) after removing the connector and see if it starts..if it does you've found the culprit...if not then you need to check for power at the starter relay connector

if you did get battery then the issue is the starter...google "larry b's starter contacts" to see what bad starter contacts look like...then pull your starter and see if they look bad...if not then just replace the starter...if they look worn then get some starter contacts

yes you will need to find out where these parts are on your car..do some googling unless someone here can help i don't have a helms for your car

 

After a few days of instantly cranking, this AM it took 2 tries. I heard something click under the hood. Sounded more like a relay than the starter solenoid.

 

Starter solenoid failure is common problem on Honda/Acura starters. Check battery cables and battery carefully for corrosion/defects.

good luck

 

It was the starter solenoid. Replaced the whole starter.