If a Honda Civic does not have a proper ground, the engine will not start. Power requires grounding for the electrical circuit to be complete. Depending on the year and model of your Civic, you may find the ground strap attached to the engine or to its frame. The other end of the ground is on the battery negative post. Ensure connections from the cable to the battery and the ground are clean -- verify that no rust, corrosion or paint is between the terminal and the post.
Check the negative battery cable at the battery to ensure it is not loose. Remove the battery negative cable from the battery, using the appropriate wrench. Follow the ground cable to its connection on the engine or frame.
Check the cable to ensure it is not loose at the connection on the engine or frame. Remove the nut, using the appropriate wrench. If it is loose, the connector on the cable will be wallowed out -- replace the cable.
Remove the positive cable and clean both battery posts on the battery and the engine or frame, using the battery terminal cleaner. Reattach both the positive and negative cable to the battery terminals and tighten the bolts firmly.
Install the cable onto the bolt on the frame or engine, if replacing the cable. Tighten the nut firmly. Route the cable up to the battery, ensuring that the cable does not touch the exhaust. Install the cable onto the battery post and tighten the bolt firmly.
