OE 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.




When the MIL has come on:




1. Connect the Honda PGM Tester or an OBD II scan tool to the 16P Date Link Connector (DLC) located behind the right side of the front console.
2. Turn the ignition switch ON.
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 Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 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.

When the ML has not come on, but there is a driveability problem, refer to the Symptom Chart.




DTC's 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 car.) Turn the ignition switch ON.

II. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset Procedure:
Either of the following actions will reset the PCM.
- Use the OBD II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester to clear the PCM'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) (7.5 A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box for 10 seconds.

III. Final Procedure (this procedure must be done after any troubleshooting):
1. Remove the SCS Service Connector if it is connected.

NOTE: If the SCS service connector is connected, and there are no DTC's stored in the PCM, the MIL will stay on when the ignition switch is turned ON.

2. Do the PCM Reset Procedure.
3. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
4. Disconnect the OBD II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester from the Data Link Connector (16P).





If the inspection for a particular code requires voltage or resistance checks at the PCM connectors, remove the right door sill molding. Pull the carpet back to expose the PCM. Unbolt the PCM 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 below.




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.