Troubleshooting Procedures
Troubleshooting Procedure1. 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. 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)/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.
B. When the MIL has not come on, but there is a driveability problem, refer to the Symptom Chart.
When the MIL has not come on but there is a driveability problem, refer to the Symptom Troubleshoot index.
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).
2. Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset Procedure
Either of the following actions will reset the ECM/PCM.
- Use the OBD-II scan tool or Honda PGM Tester to clear the ECM's/PCM's memory.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF. Remove the CLOCK RADIO (7.5 A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box for 10 seconds.
3. Final Procedure (this procedure must be done after any troubleshooting)
1. Remove the SCS Service Connector if it connected. If the SCS service connector is connected and there are no DTCs stored in the ECM/PCM, the MIL will stay on when the ignition switch is turned ON (II).
2. Do the ECM/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).
4. Known-Good PCM Substitution
Use the following procedure if you need a known-good ECM/PCM to test a vehicle. It allows you to swap an ECM/PCM from a "donor" vehicle without having to program it to the test vehicle's ignition key.
1. Cut a temporary ignition key for the test vehicle with a non-immobilizer key blank.
2. Remove the ECM/PCM from the test vehicle.
3. Write the test vehicle's VIN on the ECM/PCM you just removed to avoid confusing it with the donor vehicle's ECM/PCM.
4. Remove the known-good ECM/PCM from the donor vehicle, and install it in the test vehicle.
5. Tape the donor vehicle's ignition key head-to-head to the test vehicle's temporary key. The PCM will recognize the code from the donor vehicle's key and allow you to start the engine with the temporary key.
6. After completing your tests, reinstall both ECM/PCMs, and destroy the temporary key.
If the inspection for a particular code requires voltage or resistance checks at the ECM/PCM connectors, remove the right door sill molding. Pull the carpet back to expose the ECM/PCM. Unbolt the ECM/PCM cover, and connect the back probe sets and a digital multimeter as described below. Check the system according to the procedure described for the appropriate code(s).
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 terminal side of wire harness connectors in the engine compartment. For female connectors, lust touch lightly with the tester probe and do not insert the probe.