Troubleshooting Procedures
I. How To Begin Troubleshooting
When the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) has been reported on, or there is a driveability problem, use the appropriate procedure below to diagnose and repair the problem.
A. When the MIL has come on:
1. Connect the Honda PGM Tester or an OBD II scan tool to the 16P Data Link Connector (DLC) located on the center console behind the ashtray.
2. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
3. Honda PGM Tester: Begin troubleshooting as indicated by the tester. The DTC troubleshooting flowcharts are not needed with the tester; follow the tester's prompts.
OBD II scan tool: Check the DTC and note it. Also check and note the freeze frame data.
Refer to the Diagnostic Trouble Code Chart and begin troubleshooting.
NOTE:
- See the OBD II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester user's manuals for specific operating instructions.
- The scan tool or tester can read the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), freeze frame data, current data, and other Engine Control Module (ECM) data.
- Freeze frame data indicates the engine conditions when the first malfunction, misfire or fuel trim malfunction was detected. It can be useful information when troubleshooting.
B. When the MIL has not come on, but there is a driveability problem, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom.
C. DTCs will be indicated by the blinking of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) with the SCS service connector connected.
Connect the SCS service connector to Service Check Connector as shown. (The 2P Service Check Connector is located under the dash on the passenger's side of the vehicle.) Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
II. Engine Control Module (ECM) Reset Procedure
Either of the following actions will reset the ECM.
- Use the OBD II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester to clear the ECM's memory.
NOTE:
- See the OBD II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester user's manuals for specific operating instructions.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF. Remove the BACK UP RADIO (10 A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box for 10 seconds.
If the inspection for a particular code requires voltage or resistance checks at the ECM connectors, remove the right door sill molding. Pull the carpet back to expose the ECM. Unbolt the ECM cover, and connect the backprobe sets and a digital multimeter as described below. Check the system according to the procedure described for the appropriate code(s) listed on the following pages.
How to Use the Backprobe Sets
Connect the backprobe adapters to the stacking patch cords, and connect the cords to a multimeter. Using the wire insulation as a guide for the contoured tip of the backprobe adapter, gently slide the tip into the connector from the wire side until it comes in contact with terminal end of the wire.
CAUTION:
- Puncturing the insulation on a wire can cause poor or intermittent electrical connections.
- Bring the tester probe into contact with the terminal from the connector side of wire harness connectors in the engine compartment. For female connectors, just touch lightly with the tester probe and do not insert the probe.
Symptom Chart
Listed above are symptoms and probable causes for problems that DO NOT cause the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) to come on. If the MIL was reported on, go to How to Display and Read Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
Troubleshoot each probable cause in the order listed (from left to right) until the symptom is eliminated.
ECM Data
By connecting the OBD II scan tool or the Honda PGM Tester to the 16P data link connector (DLC), various data can be retrieved from the ECM. The items listed in the table above conform to the SAE recommended practice.
The Honda PGM Tester also reads data beyond that recommended by SAE.
Understanding this data will help to find the causes of intermittent failures or engine problems.
NOTE:
- The "operating values" given above are approximate values and may be different depending on the environment and the individual vehicle.
- Unless noted otherwise, "at idle speed" means idling with the engine completely warmed up, the transmission in position (P) or (N) and the A/C and all accessories turned off.