Rep Power: 0

Hey all!

I have this 1994 LX 1.5 AT that I stopped to use 10 years ago. This is an imported car (for me) from USA because I live in Brasil. Bad news is that it may not be easy to find parts and when finding it may be expensive...



Anyway, once in a while I used to start its engine and leave it running for a few minutes. By that time it was with a looping idle problem (after to warm up). The last time I started it was around 5 years ago then the battery ran out of charge, time passed and I just abandoned it.

One year ago I borrowed a battery from a friend and tried to start it but it didn't work. And yeah, I remembered to put gas in the tank (around 10 liters) but I really don't know if it was getting to the engine due to clogged pipes or a bad fuel pump. Also I didn't check the spark plugs, etc. I didn't check anything. I just cranked the key.

The computer seemed to be OK. It turned the SRS and injection lights on made those funny noises and then turned lights off again. When I turned the key the engine cranked well but didn't fire up. I tried it until the battery starve.

OK, knowing that I am not a mechanic -- what would be the checklist to try bring this beast back to life (preferably not spending money)? It would be also an opportunity to learn something about.



I am saving some cash to buy a "new used" car (currently I have an old VW Fox) but suddenly I had this crazy idea of make this Civic run again then I could have three cars after all!!!

Anyway, as you can see by the picture its painting is ugly but it has no rust so it's easy to fix (and I can even use it as is if I want). The interior is BRAND NEW (original!), all electric stuff is good (power windows, mirrors, lights, panel, horn, etc). Transmission as well the engine were pretty fine when I stopped it — I even had rectified the engine head — and the cruise control was good too. The only thing I think may not be working is the A/C because the freon. Also if I make it run again I will need to buy a new steering wheel (I sold mine, long story!). That's why I think that MAYBE this car worth a try...

 
Rep Power: 142

If the fuel tank has a drain plug pull it out and drain the old fuel. Fresh fuel and a good battery are required. Pull each spark plug and pour a spoonful of oil into each cylinder, then reinstall the plugs. Now try to start the engine. I have started cars with carburetors that have sat for more than 10 years many times. Only did this with fuel injected cars a couple of times.

If the car falls to start within a decent amount of time (1 min) then pull the plugs again and check to see if they have fuel on them. Fuel injectors can go bad if they sit for long enough. It may have idle issues if it does start. Idle valves can also get stuck it they sit for too long. Good luck.

 
Rep Power: 512

How long has it been sitting?

 
Rep Power: 0

10 years, being around 5 since it was fired up for the last time.

 
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Thanks for the trick!

 
Rep Power: 512

see if you can even rotate the crank by hand. Remove spark plugs and driver's side wheel, use the crank pulley bolt to rotate the engine (17mm socket, IIRC)

 
Rep Power: 0

Sorry for my ignorance but what's the point on rotate the engine by hand exactly? The engine is not stuck. It cranks normally with the starter. It just doesn't fire up.

 
Rep Power: 512

Ooh, missed that part. My mistake. My worry was the engine was seized from sitting for so long.