NOOB ? Apologize for newness!! 2004 Insight wont stay running.

Antsrcool · 11-10-2011, 08:09 PM

Ok guys and gals this seems like a great forum with tons of info. I have a 2004 honda Insight that will not stay running; starts with a jump for 2 seconds then immediately dies.....I am an auto tech so I am very capable of almost anything. These hybrids however are hallowed ground to me. I have an eager desire to learn about them though as I am certain they are future money makers. So any ideas where to start with this? I will be able to post codes within the next few days. (car is being towed to me)

Eli · 11-10-2011, 08:28 PM

Start with the obvious. Does it have fuel in the tank? If yes, does it have pressurized fuel at the engine?

samwichse · 11-10-2011, 09:56 PM

Running for 2 seconds doesn't mean the engine got any fuel or spark at all... the hybrid motor will run the engine that long after you turn the key.

But aside from the exotic "starter," there's really nothing special about troubleshooting it. Check for spark then fuel... the standard deal.

Maybe see if there are any thrown codes.

Willie Williford · 11-10-2011, 10:43 PM

I would start with the 12V battery (especially a load test) and grounds. It doesn't sound like he has possession of the vehicle yet, so we don't know all the symptoms of a "no start" yet.

Willie

Antsrcool · 11-11-2011, 05:48 PM

Yea I was supposed to have it today but it wasn't delivered....I will certainly start with the basics and report back

Antsrcool · 11-18-2011, 11:17 AM

ok finally have the car.....engine has no compression any thoughts? Cam is turning so the chain isnt snapped..... what goes wrong on these things? Oil is nice and clean but coolant is low perhaps head gasket? I have no history on this thing because it was bought from auction.

Eli · 11-18-2011, 11:41 AM

No compression? That's odd. How exactly did you come to that conclusion, just out of curiosity?

The engines in these cars are pretty much bulletproof. The only time they fail is with severe neglect....

Antsrcool · 11-18-2011, 12:47 PM

It's diagnosed bad head gasket blowing. Compression out of radiator....must have gotten hot

Willie Williford · 11-18-2011, 01:10 PM

No compression on ALL cylinders? Make sure the throttle is WO when the tests are done or that will give you a false reading.
Never heard of no compression on all cylinders at once. I've been through the leaking head gasket routine. For info you might read the "turbocharged Insight" thread for some info, I can't remember which page.
HTH
Willie

Eli · 11-18-2011, 01:11 PM

Bummer. Must have been a bad one for all 3 cylinders to lose compression!

Hopefully it's just a matter of a light shave and a new head gasket.