2000 Acura Integra Start-up Issues!

AWMARLOW

MEMBER
2000 ACURA INTEGRA

Engine Performance problem
2000 Acura Integra 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Manual 114xxx miles

Recently when I have tried starting my car, the engine cranks but will idle around 500 rpms. When I try to press the accelerator the engine boggs and just sputters. I notice a boat engine like smell from the exhaust while this goes on. Also, when I turn on power items such as the A/C, windshield wipers, headlights, hazards, etc. The engine RPMs raise considerably and the engine sounds like it has life. However, if not enough such items are powered on, the engine is almost completely non responsive to the throttle. I have successfully driven the car a couple of times when the RPMs allow me to get out of 1st gear but it usually powers down when I slow down. The check engine light comes on and off occasionally and when the codes were run it said cylinders 1-4 misfire. I changed the plugs and wires but it did not seem to make a difference. My gut tells me its a fuel related problem but is it the filter, pump, etc? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

It does sound fuel related. Have you tried replacing the fuel filter? Also, have you checked fuel pump pressure?

Here is a how-to for checking pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_check_fuel_pressure.htm

Try checking pressure to the fuel rail first. If it is low, check it before the filter. If it is normal, replace the filter. If it is still low, chances are the pump is bad. If it is normal, you replace the filter and it is still low at the rail, chances are the fuel pressure regulator is bad. When you watch the how to video, pay attention to how the regulator is checked so you can do it when you initally check pressure at the fuel rail.

Let me know what you find. Also, many parts stores will lend or rent the fuel pressure gauge if you don't have one.

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Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009 AT 12:08 AM

AWMARLOW

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thank you for the prompt response. I have not been able to get ahold of a fuel pressure guage to check the pressure but yesterday I changed the fuel filter. First try after changing the filter the car started normally and ran very strong. I drove the car several times that evening but this morning it would not start. I cannot even get the motor to crank and bogg like it had before. Is it possible to have a "bad spot" in my fuel pump like I've heard mentioned before to explain the inconsistency in the times it runs and doesn't run?

I overlooked where you had mentioned the fuel pressure regulator. I figure this is a relatively inexpensive part and can be my next step.

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Thursday, July 23rd, 2009 AT 11:36 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

The fuel pressure regulator isn't too cheap. If you can't find a fuel pressure gauge, it may not be a bad idea to take it to have it checked, or you can actually purchase one from the test equipment store site on this page. They arn't too expensive. Also, if the car isn't starting at all now, will it start with starting fluid?

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Thursday, July 23rd, 2009 AT 12:44 PM