How To Test The Fuel Pump (1994-1997 2.2L Honda Accord)

Using Starting Fluid

This is one of the very first tests I learned when I started out working on cars (back then most of them had carburetors -fuel injection was the new fangled thing).

This test is very effective in finding out if a lack of fuel (like from a bad fuel pump) is causing the engine to not start.

IMPORTANT: You have got to make sure that all of the spark plug wires are sparking before attempting the starting fluid test! This is important, since if there's no spark, this test is useless and, more importantly, indicates that the cause of the no-start condition is not due to a lack of fuel.

OK, these are the test steps:

1. 1

   Remove the intake air rubber duct from the throttle body. The end that connects to the air filter box can remain connected to it.

2. 2

   Manually open the throttle and spray starting fluid down the bore. Quickly reconnect the air duct to the throttle body (you don't have to tighten the hose clamp).

3. 3

   Have your helper crank the engine as you stand at a safe distance from the engine.

4. 4

   One of two things is gonna happen:
   
   1.) The engine will start, even if it's just momentarily or for a few seconds and then die or.
   
   2.) The engine will only crank but not start at all.

Let's take a look at what your test results mean:

CASE 1: The engine started, even momentarily. This lets you know that a lack of fuel is what is keeping the engine from starting.

OK, now for a word of caution: In about 80% of the cases, you could condemn the fuel pump as bad, replace it and voila, the problem is solved. 20% of the time it could be another issue.

CASE 2: The engine did not start, not even momentarily. This lets you know that a lack of fuel is not the cause of your vehicle's no-start problem.

More 2.2L Honda Accord Tutorials

You can find a complete list of 2.2L Honda tutorials in this index:

• Honda 2.2L Index Of Articles.

Here's a small sample of the tutorials you'll find in the index:

• How To Test The MAP Sensor (1994-1997 2.2L Accord, Odyssey, Prelude).
• How To Test The Head Gasket (1992-1997 2.2L Accord, Odyssey, Prelude).
• How To Test The Engine Compression (1992-1997 2.2L Accord, Odyssey, Prelude).
• How Often Should I Replace The Spark Plugs? (2.2L Honda Accord).