Hi Scotty -- My original 1994 Honda Del Sol 1.5L automatic has only 26K miles, starts and runs fine except every once in a while it will start then die immediately. It then cranks but won't start. If I wait a few mins, recycle the ignition switch key -- and pray -- it will eventually start as usual.
My mechanic thinks it's most likely the fuel pump (check valve?) but can't verify that because it's always started fine for him (twice in shop). He said it's around $400 to install a new fuel pump, with hopes that it will fix the problem. I hate to spend that much without being sure it will work. Could it be something else like a relay, the ignition system, etc?
What's your take on the issue?
Thanks,
Barry Miller
Bradenton, Florida
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I think your suspicions are correct because your symptoms sound like a failing PGM-FI Main Relay on those Hondas.
They have solder joints on their circuit board which crack and cause intermittent NO STARTS.
So here's a video of ScannerDanner showing the wiring diagram and explaining how they fail and resoldering the connections. (it's only 11 minutes, try to watch it).
These things used to be pretty expensive (for a relay) but now you can find them on Amazon for around $15 so trying to repair them isn't necessary.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5Qp-ToR8KA
I have a 93 Del Sol Si with the 1.6L and automatic 240,000+ miles. This fuel pump relay (grey box up under the dash near the hood release--held on with a 10mm bolt I believe it is) has failed twice on me already and I've had the car only 2-3 years. If you take the car on any road trip, always have a spare one with you.