Check engine light and transmission question
 

Hello guys,
First time poster...reader for couple of months. Thanks everyone.

I recently bought a 2000 Accord LX Automatic. I have three issues with the car
1. I think the check engine light is out. When I insert the key in and before I crank the engine, all lights (like oil pressure, brake etc) come on. But the check engine light doesn't come on. Any thoughts?

2. Transmission - it feels that the transmission is hold longer in the first gear. RPM goes up to 3.5 before it switches to second. 2 to 3 and 3 to 4 are smooth. Any thoughts?

3. In most cars, once the car is running for 10-15 mins, the temperature gauge is exactly in the middle. But in my car it is slightly below the middle. Is this an issue?

Thanks

1. The check engine light should turn on for about two seconds for a bulb check when you turn the key to the II position before you start the car. If the bulb isn't turning on, then you may have a bulb burned out. Someone could have put some electrical tape to hide the fact the car has a check engine light turned on.

2. I never owned an automatic accord, so I don't know how it should shift.

3. The temperature gauge at normal running temperature is about 1/4 or 1/3 up on the scale, so yours sounds normal.

Thanks for your quick reply.
I will replace the bulb and see.

Since you just got the car, I'd set a baseline on the trans fluid. Which means, do two to three drain and fills (drive a few miles in between) with Honda fluid.

If it's not slipping then you're good to go. Honda Odyssey shift out of 1st @3500 rpm is normal.