My buddy's 92 prelude(160k) seems to start fine, but the second the key returns to the on position, the car dies. Occasionally the car will start and remain running as it usually would. All of the fuses are fine. I think it might be something internally where the key is. I don't think it is anything mechanical because when it does start and remains running, it runs fine.

 

so when you crank the engine over, the engine actually fires off and starts running, but as soon as you let off the crank position it dies?? that just sounds wierd... can you keep it running if you give it gas?

 

well when i crank the engine over and i give it gas right before i let the key go back the engine will rev normally. but right as the key goes back to the on position the car dies instantly. no choking or hesitation. im thinking it might be a loose connection in the ignition switch. i was thinking about wiring a push start button to try and bypass the ignition switch so i can rule some things out.

 

so when you start the car and give it gas, the engine dies only when you let the key back? or does it die when you let off the gas? are you still giving it gas when it dies? i guess what i need to know, is if you are still on the gas pedal (reving the engine) when you release the key.
also when you turn your key to the ON position, does the check engine light brake light airbag and all that good shit come on? do all of those lights come back on when the engine dies?

 

probably the idle air control circuit

 

yes even if im giving gas... the engine dies right as i release the key. engine dies as i release the key whether im revving or not... all the good lights come on when i turn the key to the on position... pretty sure they r on when the car dies.

 

ok i did a little work... all my cylinders are firing and im getting gas... idle air control valve is fine.... i started the car and i held key without letting it go all the way back... i let it go almost all the way but not quite... and the engine idled fine... but the second i let it go back all the way the car died instantly... i really think its the ignition switch...where the key is.... any ideaS?

 

Hey did you ever find out what the problem was my friend with his 89 crx si is having the same problem?

 

im pretty sure its the ignition switch...(where u put the key in).. this is actually a problem on my friends car.... i have more car know-how than he does so i help him with everything.... he just ordered a new ignition switch and we shud be putting it in soon...

 

Ok It's deffinetly the ignition switch, it must be replaced! I tried everything from a hanger in the dash to hold the key in that position but trust me just go replace the ignition switch, don't ask me how this sort of thing happens but i think the lock spring inside the switch eventually breaks or un-hooks inside the case but thats the answer for ya, later luders