my 94 Civic EX wont start everytime I try. Radio and stuff comes on, but when i turn the key, nothing happens

Question

If i just turn the key so that the radio and stuff is on, everything works fine. But when i go to start the car, the only thing that happens is the electricity cuts for a second just like when you actually start the car. I usually have to attempt starting it for a few minutes before it actually goes. Never fails to start once the starting is initiated, its the initiation thats the problem. If I leave the radio and things on for 10-20 seconds it will start more consistantly, but still not every time. I just replaced battery and spark plugs so I know theres no problem there. Seems like the messsage for the car to ignite just isnt getting through for some reason, almost like the engine isnt receiving the signal or something. Sometimes if Im on a hill and put it in neutral and let it roll a little it will start more easily but I've only tried that a few times. Havent been able to get a stragiht answer as of yet plz help.

Answer 1

replace the starter and then get it running and have the alternator checked.

Answer 2

I had a similar problem with my '87 Chevy suburban. In the trouble shooting process I replaced the ignition switch in the steering column, and I finally found the problem to be a slightly loose wire on the starter. My first thing to do if I were you is to re-tighten all the wires on the starter, and if that dont work, make sure that all the wires that should be getting power are... Get a friend to get in the car, set the parking brake, chock the car, make sure it is in park if it is a automatic, and crawl under there with a current tester. Have your friend (or auto-shop worker, most are happy to help if the store is not very busy) try to start the car and check the wires for current. I can't tell you what wires to check. If the wires are getting current, try replacing your starter solenoid (some require removing the starter, and some starters have built-in solenoids). If the wires are not getting current make sure they are connected on the other end and are not cracked or deteriorated. If they are ok, I recommend replacing your ignition switch.

IF it's not any of that, it might be in the fuel system.

I recommend looking in the Chilton's or Hane's manual for your vehicle. While not the end-all solution book, they can be somewhat useful.

Hope that helps some, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Answer 3

NEVER repeat NEVER replace parts till you know the problem, this includes starters. I don't know why you reolaced the battery ?? sounds like everything was working except start. Turn off everything, turn key to start and see if you can hear a CLICK.
If no click you have a solenoid problem. If it does click then for some reason the power is not getting to starter motor. Could be corrosion at battery terminal, did the terminals get cleaned when battery was changed ?? Could be bad connection at battery, bad ground connection, loose wire to solenoid check it all out before changing parts.

Answer 4

Definitely sounds like the starter but you also need to have that alternator looked at. If you replace the starter but the alternator is bad, it's going to keep killing your battery