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Morning everyone.

I just bought a 96 Civic EX and I have a little problem with the radio. It's an aftermarket Sony that was in there when I bought the car. The problem is the harness. The 12v line from the ignition works fine when the key is in the "ACC" an "ON" positions (checked with a meter) but when I start the motor and the key returns to "ON" there is no power to that line. I'd go through and trace back everything but I'm getting too old to pretzel myself under a dash all day. Thanks for your help.

 
Rep Power: 308

You could check the 12 volt outlet port to see if it has power. ( it should work the same way as the line you are working with) If it has power after starting use it as your source.

 
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Haven't checked that but I will. I thought about connecting it to the constant 12v power for the memory and just shutting off the radio when I turn off the car. What would cause that line to go dead after starting the car though?

 
Rep Power: 308

It is possible that the outlet line may be inop as well.

You might try slightly moving the key back and forth a bit once the engine has started and see if the missing voltage trys to return (don't go too far and grind the starter)

I tried having constant power to the audio for a while and it does not work for me... did I turn my stereo off ?? damn. I would try to use the outlet if it works.

 
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Ok, it looks like the ignition is the problem. I twisted the kye slightly forward and lo and behold the radio comes on. So, is the problem in the ignition cylinder? Or is there something else that positions the switch? Another problem I'm having is that ODBII testers can't communicate with my ECM and I think this may be part of the problem so I'd rather get it fixed than jimmy around with alternate wiring.

 
Rep Power: 308

You should do a search online for the free 96-00 factory service manual in PDF that is available (I had one on CD and it came up missing)

It will be a huge help to you. I'm not going to venture a guess because I do not know enough about it.

Sounds like you are on the correct path though.

 
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Already have one.

Just thought I'd try and get a quick answer.

 
Rep Power: 308

I could not see much looking at the new parts sites, I did find a picture of a white cylinder and some harnesses attached. It looks like it may possibly atttach to the rear portion of the ignition cylinder, I could see a large gauge white wire running up to it from the harness.

 
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That's about all I could find too. I did find a forum that shows how to change one in an Acura from the same year. It looks pretty simple, 3 screws and 2 harnesses.