So Fix it

Car problems can be frustrating, especially when youre trying to get somewhere important. Before calling a professional mechanic to take a look at your Honda that wont start, try a few tips to solve the problem.

Reasons

There are several reasons why your Honda engine might turn over, but not turn on. It might be a problem with the fueling system or the ignition system. Either not enough gas is getting to the engine or the engine is not combusting fuel.

Location

First, confirm that you have sufficient gasoline in the tank. If you do, then go to the fuel tank at the back of the vehicle. Crawl underneath the vehicle and check the fuel tank for holes. Follow the fuel line from the fuel tank to the engine. Look for corrosion along the fuel line which might indicate a fuel leak. Check components that are often in need of maintenance, such as the fuel filter, fuel pump, spark plug and starter.

Troubleshooting

Put at least two gallons of gas in your fuel tank and immediately try to start your vehicle. This should cover the possibility of an empty fuel tank. Your fuel filter, fuel pump and spark plugs are easily replaceable; replace these components. If you have some automotive knowledge, you might be able to check and replace the camshaft mounted near the top of the engine as well. Also, check your catalytic converter, located underneath the vehicle, to make sure it is not warped or damaged. Consult a professional mechanic if the problem continues.

When Toyota vehicles with five-speed transmissions are headed for the junkyard, owners can save money by replacing their cars engine. Engine manufacturers call the process "vehicle repowering" and owners add years to the life of the vehicle when they opt for repowering over individual engine repairs. Some automotive shops specialize in acquiring replacement Toyota engines from domestic and international locations. The kits come with all the equipment needed to bolt the engine onto the vehicle.

1990 to 1993 Celica

The Celica GT-fourth generation 5/all-trac 3S-grand turismo turbo engine is the all-wheel drive, five-speed transmission engine for Celicas manufactured between 1990 and 1993. The four-cylinder, 16-valve engine produced by Toyota weighs 600 lbs. with 225 horsepower at 6000 rpm. The engine produces 200 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3200 rpm. Redline levels occur at 8000 rpm. JDM Engine Depot supplies the engine for a suggested retail price of $1,099 (as of 2011). Engine heads, a power steering pump and all-wheel drive manual transmission are included with the engine.

1986 to 1989 Celica

Five-speed-transmission Celica vehicles manufactured between 1986 and 1989 are compatible with the Celica grand turismo-fourth generation 4/all-trac 3S-grand turismo turbo engine. The four-cylinder, all-wheel drive, 16-valve engine manufactured by Toyota weighs 600 lbs. The unit is capable of 190 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 190 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3200 rpm. Redline levels occur at 8000 rpm. The engine is available through JDM Engine Depot at a suggested retail price of $999 (as of 2011). Complete engine heads, flywheels, a wiring harness and an all-wheel-drive manual transmission are included with the engine.

1994 to 1999 MR2

The MR2 third-generation 3S-grand turismo turbo engine is compatible with the MR2 rear-wheel drive sports car manufactured by Toyota between 1994 and 1999. The four-cylinder, 16-valve engine is capable of 225 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 200 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3200 rpm. Redline levels occur at 8000 rpm. Total weight of the all-wheel drive, five-speed transmission engine is 600 lbs. JDM Engine Depot provides the engine at a suggested retail price of $1,999 (as of 2011). Engine heads, a non-limited slip differential transmission and fuel rails are included with the engine.

1991 to 1993 MR2

The MR2 3S-grand turismo turbo engine is compatible with second generation MR2 front-wheel drive sports cars manufactured by Toyota between 1991 and 1993. The four-cylinder, 16-valve engine is capable of 220 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 200 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3000 rpm. Redline levels occur at 8000 rpm. Total weight of the five-speed transmission engine is 600 lbs. JDM Engine Depot supplies the engine at a suggested retail price of $1,749 (as of 2011). The engine kit includes complete heads, sensors and distributor.