Hi ,, I need some help here. I have a 96 accord 4cyl vtec motor,,the cel is on. I do not have a scanner, nor do i have the funds to take it to the dealer. I really dont like/ trust the auto parts places when they scan it for free to tell me a accurate problem. Is there a way to determine what the issue is without a scanner? It runs fine, seems to have plenty of power. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

you can check the code(s) the OBD1 way. See the common diy thread on top of the gen tech help forum. All you need is a piece of wire or a thin paperclip.

If you go to a parts store, get the actual code. Don't listen to the explanation. Codes start with the letter P and have four numbers, like P1234. With that information, we can give you some testing procedures. The OBD2 uses more codes, so there may be more detail in the problem the computer is detecting.

Either way (OBD1 at home vs OBD2 at the parts store) will determine the path to diagnose and fix the problem.

 

Agree... Parts store scanner is just fine to get the error code NUMBER.

From there, you get the guy's explanation of what you should do to fix it. That can be pretty creative at times. We always like to know THE NUMBER.

 

Thanks for the link, i have it bookmarked for reference. Where do you jump the aldl, i know it is behind the ashtray..is this the same port for obd1 codes? if so what 2 pins do you jump, a picture would be great, thanks

 

CEL Check Engine Light

 

thanks you for your time and replies,,much appreciated

 

On thing I forgot to mention, your 2-pin connector (OBD1) is under the glove box like in that post. Short only that connector (there will not be a 3-pin connector like in that picture).

The OBD2 plug is behind the ash tray. That is where a scanner would get plugged in.

 

got it thanks

 

Yea these guys are right, the parts store can and will give you the fault code and it would be better for them to check for that code rather than you look up an obd 1 code that won't paint the whole picture. I have an older honda that only has obd 1 and I wish I had obd 2, trust the parts store to at least be able to tell you what code is present, but don't buy anything from them without checking here first. They can and will give you the accurate codes that are present in your ecu causing the check engine light
Basicly what I'm getting at is don't just check your obd 1 codes because you don't trust the parts guys, all they do is hook up a gadget that reads codes, I'm pretty sure it's okay to trust even the biggest of retards that got selected as hire able at these parts stores, for what code is present anyway but I hear you when it comes to trusting someone about actual diagnosis

 

thanks for the replies,,im gonna take a shot at this friday,,,if i can get the car to sit still long enough for me to look at it,I do value and appreciate your time and replies. thanks