no Dipsticks should not affect the startup of the car. You may need to change your spark plugs, or in certain cirtumstances, change your starter motor which is not so expensive.
starting problems
The transmission dipstick on a 1987 Honda Civic is located to the left of the oil dipstick. It is close to the left edge of the engine.
there is not a dipstick on a manual transmission
The dipstick is located behind the steering wheel.
1996 civic tranmission dip stick
Look down low on the transmission for a yellow loop handle on the dipstick.
remove bolts and clip. Then remove oil dipstick tube.
A 1989 Honda Civic did not make use of a transmission fluid dipstick. Instead there are two bolts available. A filler bolt and a drain bolt.
the front of the engine under/around the exhaust
Try the main relay. Mine was behind the glovebox on a 1996 civic. Good luck.
the dipstick is located on the engine compartment right hand side almost on top of the right side axle. the handle for dipstick is yellow.
3.5 to 4.25 qts add 3.5 then check the dipstick if you cant find the dipstick take it to a shop