How to Troubleshoot the Electrical System in an Acura Integra

Since Honda stopped selling the Acura Integra in the U.S. in 2007, Acura owners have had to take on a stronger role in car maintenance. Your Integra's electrical system is made up of many components and sensors, including the starter, alternator and lights. Before you take your car down to the Honda dealership for a hook up to the computer and a pricey repair bill, try troubleshooting yourself.

Things You'll Need

  • Fuse puller
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Tapered probe
  • Gauge
  • Check for a blown fuse when you first experience an electrical problem. A chart on the fuse box lid shows you what fuse controls which component. Open the fuse box under the hood, and remove any blown fuses with a screwdriver. Also check the fuses in the interior fuse box, removing bad fuses with a fuse puller.

  • Locate the under dash fuse-relay box if you're having problems with turn signals or hazard lights. Remove the turn signal/hazard relay, and check whether the relay and socket terminal are in good shape and making contact. If everything checks out, make input tests at the socket. Repair any problems, and recheck your turning signals and hazard lights. If the problem continues, replace the turn signal/hazard relay.

  • Know about your wiper relay if your wipers act like they're possessed by coming on all by themselves. For some reason, this is a problem in older Acura models. Check the fuse box first. If you can't locate the problem, replace the wiper relay.

  • Look at connections. They should be clean with no loose wires. Use a tapered probe to check wires and connections from the wire side, if possible. All connectors that aren't watertight should be packed with grease. Insert connectors, making certain that the push-down releases lock.

  • Recall if you've replaced a brake light recently. If your brake lights insist on staying on even when your foot comes off the brake pedal or if interior lights dim when you brake, it could be that you or someone replaced the brake light with the wrong bulb. Three dollars for the right bulb and you'll avoid a trip to the mechanic.

  • Replace your Acura Integra starter if start up is a problem, and you've already check the fuses, battery and alternator. The battery should provide power to the solenoid on top of the starter, allowing the starter to be activated.

  • Notice if the charging indicator light goes on while the engine is running (it should go out after the engine starts). This often means that the charging system isn't charging the battery any longer. Turn off everything electrical-radio, air, heat, cruise control and power windows. Keep the car running until you can get it to the nearest technician for repair.