Honda has a sturdy lineup of engines that are expertly designed to last as long as possible. The engines have some of the best longevity in the industry and it’s not unusual to see Honda engines still working well for decades after they were first built. Despite this great record, all engines, even Honda engines, require good maintenance and care habits. Any engine can malfunction or have mechanical issues from time to time. It’s not always easy to diagnose such problems either, as there are numerous small parts inside the engine, not to mention fluids and other aspects. The main key to troubleshooting is taking a trial and error approach, fixing each problem as it comes up.
When the Engine Won’t Start
Probably the most concerning problem for any Honda owner is when the engine won’t start. It is also usually the most common problem and often has the simplest solutions as well. Some common issues with engines not starting include old air filters or simply being low on fuel.
Troubleshooting is about checking the easiest issues first and proceeding from there. Therefore, the first thing to check is the fuel level and the age of the fuel. Low fuel can cause ignition problems while old fuel might be diluted with water or is just plain ineffective. The next thing to check is the air filter. If there is a large amount of debris or it looks especially dirty, then the best solution is to replace it with genuine Honda OEM parts. A dirty or debris-filled air filter prevents oxygen from interacting with the fuel, which interferes with spark and thus keeps the engine from starting.
If neither of these is the issue or the engine still does not start after they are fixed, then move on to checking the spark plugs. Look at the plugs to see if they are fouled, covered in carbon emissions or just have general damage. Clean the spark plugs if necessary, or replace it with Honda OEM parts available at hondalawnparts.com.
Another thing to check is that all the engine settings are correct. Check the fuel valve and make sure it is open, and that the choke and engine stop switch are set to on. If any of these settings are wrong, then the engine won’t start. Check the oil level next. Low oil can cause the engine to not start in order to protect it from further damage.
If the engine still won’t start after all these steps, then it is likely that it has a major mechanical issue that would be best looked at by an authorized Honda retailer. It’s important to address such issues quickly in order to keep the engine functioning properly.
Compromised Engine Efficiency
One of Honda’s best features is how efficient its engines are. More than its competitors, Honda engines tend to use less fuel, offer more power and run quieter. However, that smooth operation can be compromised when issues such as clogged air filters crop up. If it becomes apparent that the engine is using more fuel than usual or operating louder, then the following are some things to check:
– the air filter for clogs and dirt
– oil filter for clogs or age
– spark plugs for age or damage
– carburetor for clogs or damage
If necessary, replace any parts with genuine Honda OEM parts for maximum efficiency. The key to a long life for a Honda engine is proper maintenance. For more information on how to troubleshoot specific engines and equipment, visit Hondalawnparts.com for more information on parts for your model.
