The starter relay on a 1997 Honda Accord is typically located in the engine bay, inside the main under-hood fuse/relay box. Look for a relay labeled “S” or “START” on the box lid or within the relay array. This relay is part of the starter circuit and can be swapped with a like-for-like relay for quick testing.
In this article, we describe where to find the relay, how to identify the correct unit, and what to do if you can’t locate it or if the starter still won’t engage after checking the relay. The guidance reflects common layouts for that generation of Hondas and standard service manuals.
Location and appearance
In most 1997 Accords, the under-hood fuse/relay box sits on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the battery and strut tower. Open the box lid and inspect the diagram; the starter relay is usually labeled with an “S” or “START” designation and appears as a standard square/rectangular automotive relay among other relays and fuses.
- Open the hood and locate the main under-hood fuse/relay box on the driver’s side of the engine bay.
- Remove the lid and read the diagram on the inside or on the box cover to identify the relay labeled “S” or “START.”
- Pull the suspected starter relay out gently and compare it with a spare relay of the same type to confirm the fit.
- Reconnect the relay and cover the box; if the label isn’t clear, consult the owner's manual or a service manual for your exact VIN/engine type.
Before you inspect the box, ensure the car is off and the battery is disconnected to prevent shorts.
If you locate the “S”/“START” relay and it seems in place, you’ve likely found the starter relay. If you don’t see a clearly labeled starter relay, the circuit may be integrated with another relay or the diagram may vary by production batch, so refer to the service manual for your vehicle.
What to do if you can't locate or if the starter still won't engage
When the relay location isn’t obvious or a new relay doesn’t fix a no-crank condition, follow these diagnostic steps to narrow down the cause:
- Check the battery: ensure it’s fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight.
- Inspect fuses: look for blown fuses in the under-hood box that feed the starter circuit and ignition system.
- Test the starter solenoid circuit: verify voltage at the solenoid terminal when cranking; lack of voltage points to wiring or ignition switch rather than the relay itself.
- Try a swap test: if you have a spare relay of the same type, swap it in to see if the symptom changes.
These steps help determine whether the issue is the relay, wiring, or another component in the starting system.
If these checks don’t resolve the issue, it’s advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or refer to the factory service manual for VIN-specific diagrams and procedures. Electrical starting issues can involve the ignition switch, neutral safety switch, or wiring harness in addition to the relay.
Summary
For a 1997 Honda Accord, the starter relay is usually found in the engine bay’s under-hood fuse/relay box, labeled “S” or “START.” If you don’t see a clearly labeled starter relay, consult the service manual for your exact VIN, as layouts can vary. Always disconnect the battery before handling relays and follow proper safety precautions. A systematic check of the relay, fuses, wiring, and ignition components will help diagnose startup problems effectively.