Engine will not run?

Hi,

This sounds like a fuel pump or the crankshaft angels sensor has gone out. When you turn the key to the on position without cranking the engine over can you hear the fuel pump run in the tank for 5 seconds?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Does this only happen after the vehicle sits for a period of time? If that is the case, I want you to try something and let me know if it makes a difference. Based on your description, it sounds like you have fuel pressure drop off. This will answer if that is correct.

1) Turn the key from off to on (engine off) and count to 5 and turn it off.
2) Repeat step 1 three times. On the 4th time, see if it starts normally.

Let me know what happens.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

There are a few things that can cause it to happen. It doesn't seem like it is too bad if it takes that long to happen. As far as possible causes, a leaking fuel injector, faulty one way valve on the fuel pump, a leak at some point.

When it happens, how long do you have to wait until it starts working normally?

Joe

That makes sense with what I described. It is taking time for the fuel pump to reprime the system. It could even be a weak fuel pump. You could check fuel pressure if you would like to confirm it is within spec.

Here is a link that shows in general how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

I attached the specs in the attached pic. Note there are two engine possibilities. I can help you determine which one you have. I will need to know the 8th digit from the left of the VIN number. That is the serial number of the vehicle.

Joe

If there is a leak, you should smell it. The link that I attached above explains how to check for fuel pressure drop off. I have a feeling it may fail that portion of the test.

Let me know if I can help. Also, I didn't realize the engine was replaced. Does it run normally at other times?

Joe

Try what I suggested and see if it makes a difference. If it does, at least we will know why it's happening. At that point, we will need to test a couple things before replacing parts.

When you get the next chance, try it and let me know the results.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply. Don't worry if it takes time to get back to me.

Joe

Okay. Do you hear the fuel pump actuate when you first turn the key on? It should run a couple seconds to re prime the system. Maybe the fuel pump relay is failing and not working properly when it sits.

When it finally starts and runs rough do you see any dark smoke from the exhaust? Reading through the posts it sounds like an injector is bleeding off the fuel which makes at least one cylinder run rich on that initial start. I would verify the fuel pressure first, if it tests good and you cannot find any leaks then as a check you could remove the spark plugs and see if one or more is very dark or sooted up.
As Joe says there are a few possible reasons for the problem. I would suspect the injectors or pressure regulator as it started after the engine was replaced and that suggests a bad part on the engine.

At this point, I feel it is a fuel pressure related issue. The only way to confirm I'm correct is to check fuel pressure after the vehicle sits and would normally have the issue. Here is a link that shows in general how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle. You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend or rent one to you.

____________________________________________________

2000 Honda Civic LX Sedan L4-1590cc 1.6L SOHC MFI
Component Tests and General Diagnostics
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics
COMPONENT TESTS AND GENERAL DIAGNOSTICS
Inspection
1. Relieve fuel pressure.

pic 1

2. Remove the 12 mm banjo bolt from the fuel filter while holding the fuel filter with another wrench. Attach the special tools.
3. Start the engine. Measure the fuel pressure with the engine idling and the vacuum hose of the fuel pressure regulator disconnected from the fuel pressure regulator and pinched. If the engine will not start, turn the ignition switch ON (II), wait for two seconds, turn it off, then back on again and read the fuel pressure.

Pressure should be: except B16A2 engine:
260 - 310 kPa (2.7 - 3.2 kg/Sq.cm, 38 - 46 psi)

B16A2 engine: 270 - 320 kPa (2.8 - 3.3 kg/Sq.cm, 40 - 47 psi)

4. Reconnect vacuum hose to the fuel pressure regulator.

Pressure should be: except B16A2 engine:
200-250 kPa (2.0 - 2.5 kg/Sq.cm, 28 - 36 psi)

B16A2 engine: 210 - 260 kPa (2.1 - 2.6 kg/Sq.cm, 30 - 37 psi)

If the fuel pressure is not as specified, first check the fuel pump. If the fuel pump is OK, check the following:
- If the fuel pressure is higher than specified, inspect for:
- Pinched or clogged fuel return hose or line.
- Faulty fuel pressure regulator.
- If the fuel pressure is lower than specified, inspect for:
- Clogged fuel filter.
- Faulty fuel pressure regulator.
- Fuel line leakage.

___________________________________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

It's possible. Take a look at this link and page down to step 8.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-misfires-or-runs-rough

Let me know.

Joe