1997 Honda Accord My car won't start on first try.

SUPERMAN422

MEMBER
1997 HONDA ACCORD
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
189,000 MILES

My car wouldnt start this morning (its about 30 degrees). The lights and everything else came on, but the engine would just click and I could hear a low buzzing, rumble sound with each attempt. After trying several times it started up, then I cut it back off to see if it was a one time thing. The next attempt took me aboout 10 minutes of turning the ignition before the engine cranked up again. I drove it home, and cut it off and immediately attempted to cut it on again but to no avail. What could the problem be?

Monday, January 28th, 2008 AT 6:15 AM

2 Replies

BRUCE HUNT

MECHANIC
3,754 POSTS

I would start with a look at the battery terminal connections. Are they corroded, are they tight, are they in good condition, and is the connection of the cable to the actual terminal end in good shape? I would say that your issue is connection related. Don't hesitate to either put on a new cable or a new terminal end. These must be clean and tight. Use a battery terminal cleaner which can be found at a parts store, does not cost much money and clean the battery terminals and the connections/terminal ends of the cable itself. Start with this. Don't just look at it and say it looks ok.

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Monday, January 28th, 2008 AT 11:31 AM

SUPERMAN422

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks, I cleaned off the corrosion on the battery, and still had no luck. I finally got it started and took it to AutoZone for a diagnostic since the "check engine light" is now on. This is what the results were:

Code: P 1359
Definition: CKP/TDC sensor connector disconnection

Probable Causes:
1.) Check crankshaft position sensor
2.) Open or Short Circuit Condition
3.) Poor electrical connection

Are these serious issues or can I correct them myself?

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Monday, January 28th, 2008 AT 2:57 PM