Hi! Thanks for reading this and I hope one of you smart folks can give me some wisdom...

I had a check engine light at 135K miles and got the OBD code P1259, "VTEC system malfunction". I went back and read many of the old posts about this.

The thing is, the VTEC system (in fact, the whole engine) seems to be working fine. I have access to the full range of RPM in all gears, 1000-6000, no stalling or chugging, good acceleration, just like before. I DON'T know yet if my fuel economy has been adversely affected.

The oil WAS about a quart low, so I added some and cleared the light, but it came on again a few miles later. The next step seems to be serial replacement of VTEC parts until the light stays out, but that seems excessive if my performance is fine.

Thinking further, I have NOT yet re-checked the code, so I don't know positively it's the same, I'm just guessing it is.

Any ideas?

 

What year, model, etc.. accord do you drive?

 

SOHC vtec is all low end. So you would not feel the crossover. So how do you know vtec is still working?
Also helps if we know what year and time accord you have.

 

You could check the VTEC spool valve. There's 2 wiring plugs on that, one for a pressure switch (2-wires) and one for the VTEC solenoid (on top). Loose/dirty/corroded connections? Leaking oil anywhere around there?

Another thing is to remove the spool valve from the head & clean it out. The gasket incorporates a screen & that can get full of crud. Clean it up & see?

 

Thanks guys, 1999 V4 LX, sorry to omit that. I guess I DONT know the VTEC is still working. Would a change in fuel economy show that?

Regarding iffy connections and the spool valve and the screen and all, would those things make the light come on WITHOUT affecting the system (assuming it IS still working?) I sort of get that the whole thing is keyed on oil pressure. Still, will see if I can locate some of these things and tinker with them.

 

you mean you have a i4..lol honda dose not make a v4 for cars :P

Nothing to be ashamed of by owning a 4cyl. They tend to out run the v6's that have more power
I personally won't own a v6 I LOVE the 4bangers. They have much more potential for being modified


Yes your fuel economy will show a little bit. vtec help produce low end tq. it also helps the fuel burn more efficient.



hope this pic helps locate it for you.

 

THANKS! I'll look for it..