My 92 EX has a transmission filter problem that I can't afford to fix with a rebuild. My dad has a 93 DX that is not running for different reasons. I'm trying to decide which car is more worth fixing.

92 EX:
D4 code was 2, "Solenoid B"
Mechanic said it's the tranny filter being clogged up by debris. Can't replace filter so needs a rebuild.
Also has CEL code 43 "Fuel Supply System"
D4 light has been flashing for a little over a year, got much worse and new symptoms in the last 2 weeks that lead to it being towed to the tranny shop.
Seemed to be slipping gears, losing acceleration, and eventually not accelerating at all even in 1st gear.
Has hunting idle.
Needs new battery.


93 DX:
Has hunting idle.
Start is unreliable, not totally sure why it doesn't start sometimes.
Leaky trunk has lead to mold in back seat.
Needs new battery.

Any opinions/experience with common issues with these years? Which one is going to be the better way to go? Should I take the both to the Honda dealership and have them do the inspection so I know what I'm dealing with or is that a waste? Also, I've tried Google and haven't been able to determine if the 93 has 14" or 15" wheels. I just bought new tires for the 92 and am hoping they will fit the 93.

 

1. For the D4 code, have you tried pulling the under-hood fuse no. 24 (7.5A) back-up fuse briefly (5-10 second) to reset both the ECM and TCM and see if it drives differently?

If the issue on the 92 is the transmission, can try to swap from the 93 you have or another used transmission.

2. The Code 43 on the 92 EX may just be due to an oxygen sensor needing replacement.

3. The 92 EX probably would be the better way due to the following:

• Mold issue in the 93
• New tires on 92 EX (OE size is 15") that won't fit a DX (OE size is 14")
• EX is higher trim level than DX

4. Both 92 and 93 have relatively the same common issues as they are pretty much similar cars.

5. Hunting idle issue can be separately resolved.

 

Thanks for the reply, Redbull.

I did pull the fuse and nothing changed. I also pulled out the TCU and examined it, nothing looked fried or discolored at all. The tires I put on the 92 EX are 14", so sounds like they should fit the 93 DX.

 

I also haven't pulled the codes on the 93 yet. I don't remember any lights being on on the dash, but it has been a few years since I've driven it.

 

This would be a major caution for me, but you're there to make the call
and sound like you're capable of it. Let us know how it goes ...

 

After talking to my dad, who has the 93, I'm leaning toward just taking the transmission from it and putting it in the 92. Turns out the negative battery terminal wire is broken off where it attaches to the motor. So I couldn't pull the codes. The fact that it has been sitting for about 3 1/2 years also worries me. I just had the oil changed, drained and filled the tranny fluid, had the brake fluid flushed and bought new tires for the 92. Now to find out how much it's going to cost to swap transmissions....