from Grok:
Thank you for the update! I’ve read the part you highlighted, and I’ll walk you through what’s happening with your 1996 Honda Civic DX (5-speed manual) and how to address the starting issue with your keyless entry system. Let’s break it down step by step.
Understanding the Problem
From your description:
Battery: You initially thought the battery was bad due to an AutoZone test, but it was a false positive. The battery is fine now.
Keyless Entry: You’re using a "keyless entry" system (likely an aftermarket remote start kit) to crank the engine. The car turns over but doesn’t start.
Fuel Pump Priming:
When you use the remote to enter ACC mode, the fuel pump primes (you hear it), but when the system tries to start the car, everything shuts off.
If you bypass ACC and go straight to START (e.g., pressing the brake and ignition), the engine cranks but doesn’t start. You suspect the fuel pump isn’t priming in this case.
Concern: You’re worried that the keyless entry method isn’t working correctly because it’s not allowing the fuel pump to prime properly before starting.
New Kit: You’re getting a new remote start kit in case the current one is faulty.
Why the Car Won’t Start
Your suspicion is spot-on: the fuel pump needs to prime before the engine can start. Here’s how it typically works in a car like your Civic:
ON Position: When you turn the key to ON (or the remote activates the equivalent), the fuel pump runs for 2-3 seconds to build fuel pressure.
START Position: After priming, the engine cranks, and if fuel pressure, spark, and air are present, it starts.
With your remote start system:
ACC Mode Issue: The fuel pump primes in ACC, but when it tries to start, "everything turns off." This suggests the system isn’t maintaining power to the ignition or fuel pump circuits during cranking.
Bypassing ACC: When you go straight to START, the fuel pump doesn’t prime first, so there’s no fuel pressure, and the car won’t start despite cranking.
Troubleshooting and Fixing the Issue
Let’s figure out if the problem is with the car itself or the remote start system, and how to make the keyless entry method work reliably.
1. Test Starting with the Key
First, confirm the car starts normally with the key to rule out other issues:
Steps:
Insert the key and turn it to ON (not START). Listen near the fuel tank for a 2-3 second hum from the fuel pump.
Turn the key to START to crank the engine.
Outcome:
If it starts: The car’s starting system (fuel pump, ignition, etc.) is fine, and the issue is with the remote start setup.
If it doesn’t start: There’s a deeper issue (e.g., fuel pump, main relay, or spark) we’d need to investigate further.
Assuming it starts with the key, let’s focus on the remote start system.
2. Check the Remote Start System’s Behavior
Your remote start system should mimic the key’s sequence: prime the fuel pump, then crank the engine while keeping the ignition powered. Here’s what’s happening now:
ACC Mode: Primes the pump but shuts off before cranking.
Straight to START: Cranks without priming.
Steps:
Check the Manual: Look at the remote start system’s instructions. Some systems have settings for "fuel pump prime time" or "ignition delay." You might need to adjust it to stay in ON mode longer before cranking.
Test Priming:
Use the remote to enter ACC or ON mode.
Listen for the fuel pump hum. Note if it runs for 2-3 seconds.
See if the system cuts power before cranking begins.
Possible Fix: If it’s shutting off too soon, the system might be miswired or need a timing adjustment.
3. Inspect the Main Relay
The main relay (under the dash, left of the steering column, gray box) controls the fuel pump and ignition. If the remote start isn’t activating it properly, the pump won’t prime or stay powered.
Steps:
Use the remote to go to ON mode. Listen for a click from the main relay.
If there’s no click, the remote start might not be sending power to the ignition circuit correctly.
Fix: Check the wiring from the remote start to the ignition switch and main relay.
4. Install the New Kit Correctly
Since you’re getting a new remote start kit, let’s ensure it works:
Steps:
Follow the installation instructions carefully, especially for wiring to the ignition switch (ACC, ON, START) and main relay.
Verify the system is set to prime the fuel pump for 2-3 seconds before cranking.
Tip: If you’re not confident with wiring, consider having a professional install it to avoid similar issues.
Advice for Your Concern
Yes, the keyless entry method can work for your car, but it needs to be configured to:
Activate the ON mode (or equivalent) to prime the fuel pump.
Maintain power to the ignition and fuel pump while cranking.
The current kit might be faulty or miswired, causing it to skip steps or cut power prematurely. The new kit should resolve this if installed correctly.
Next Steps Summary
Test with the key to confirm the car starts normally.
Check the current remote start system for priming and power issues (manual, timing, wiring).
Inspect the main relay for activation.
Install the new kit with proper wiring and settings.
Final Tips
Listen for the Fuel Pump: When using the remote, always check for the priming hum in ON mode.
Wiring Check: Ensure the remote start connects properly to the ignition and fuel pump circuits.
Ask for Help: If you’re stuck, a mechanic or car audio installer can troubleshoot the remote start system.
I hope this gets your Civic running smoothly with the keyless entry! Let me know if you need more help or have updates after trying these steps. Good luck, and thanks for the details!
Topic Author
