My 1999 accord DX just hit 125k with no problems except the catalytic converter and ball joints. What major work is recommended to have this run for another 100k? Thanks.

 

Timing belt, balancer shaft belt, tensioner, and water pump are a must if you havent already done them.

 

There's a whole pile of things for around 100k miles, including that timingbelt stuff.

Spark plugs.

Inspect brakes real good. There's no MILEAGE schedule because it depends too much on terrain and driving habits. With 125k you're certainly not on your original brakes.

Fresh brake fluid every couple years.
Fresh antifreeze every couple years.

 

If auto transmission w/ no history of fluid drain/replacement, suggest draining/replacing ATF w/ Honda ATF Z1, three times to replace most of the fluid in system. If you've changed 2-3 times, a simple drain/replace should be adequate.

good luck

 

thanks everyone. Timing belt done, 5 speed transmission, just did spark plugs and thermostat.

Is it possible for the factory converter to have failed at 125k, or could it be the O2 sensor causing the p0420 engine light? Are they usually replaced at the same time?

Thanks Rob

 

Honda converters are reliable, but not unknown to fail. Before replacing, check carefully for air leaks upstream of converter (connections in particular). These can result in P0420.

If O2 sensors are original, replacing the forward O2 sensor may be worthwhile.

After above checks and work, reset ECU and see if P0420 returns. If it does, look for a direct fit replacement (bolt-on) converter from a reputable manufacturer. Compare OEM, but they were quite high last time I looked.

good luck

 

Exhaust leaks?
The O2 sensor actually measures oxygen DIFFERENCE between inside vs/ outside of the sensor. So an exhaust leak blowing onto the outside of the sensor will throw off the measurement. Oil & crud dripping onto the outside of the sensor can throw it off too.

 

Thanks. By forward O2 sensor you mean the one on the engine block right? or on the catalytic converter? I'll check for exhaust leaks as well.
Rob

 

The front one is on the exhaust manifold right up front.

You normally think of the rear sensor (mounted in the cat) for P0420. But maybe the front sensor is marginal, causing the mixture to be not-perfectly controlled. Then even a good cat can have trouble handling it.

 

might wanna check your clutch fluid and if its ugly which is probably is, bleed it. it could prolong the life of it.....and a slave on these is real easy, compared to my gto's, which is inside the transmission.....and about 80 dollars cheaper !! thank god for that.