Hard Starting Acura Integra

A 1994 Acura Integra With 1834 CC engine

Jan 9, 2007 Vincent Ciulla

This Acura will only start when it feels like it.

Question: Hard Starting Acura Integra

Hello Vince, I have a question regarding a hard to diagnose starting problem with a 1994 Acura Integra with 1834 CC engine and automatic transmission. We've taken it to several shops but they said they couldn't diagnose it unless it stops starting for them. Well, every time we took it to the shop, the car would always start. When the car doesn't start, the engine cranks strong but it will not start.

It almost starts every morning but sometimes it will begin to sputter and die and then it won't start. Other mornings it will start up fine and it can be driven around for a while and even start when it's at operating temperature. Other times when it won't start, it would be sitting for a couple of hours after being driven. Every time it doesn't start, it cranks over fine but won't start.

I read your answer to the Integra with hard starting in the morning because of a bad fuel pump check valve but my symptoms are not quite the same. The car has over 200,000 miles on it and it runs strong when it starts. The fuel filter has been changed as well as the starter. The fuel injectors have been cleaned. What do you think the problem may be? I appreciate any advice you may be able to give.

Thanks,

Anthony

Answer:

First thing we need to do is determine what we lost when it won't start; fuel or spark. When it won't start disconnect a vacuum line from the intake manifold. Then spray a nice healthy shot of carburetor cleaner directly into the intake manifold. Reconnect the vacuum line and try to start it. If it starts and runs we know we have a fuel problem. If not, then it's an ignition problem.

If it's a fuel problem we would need to check fuel pressure to see if the fuel pump's working. If it is we then have to look at the injectors and injector wiring.

If it's an ignition problem we will need to look at the ignition coil and the igniter. You can try accessing the Diagnostic Trouble Codes to see if there are any are stored.

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