If your MIL (multifunction Indicator Lamp, aka "Check Engine") has illuminated,
it is more helpful to know WHY it has lit up instead of just guessing at the
problem... How do you find out what the error is? Well you will need a short
piece of wire or a paperclip.

On the passenger side of your car, under the dash beneath the radio, you will
find a connector that has two wires.

That you need to do is turn the ignition off, and using the piece of wire or
paperclip, jump the connector so that you connect the two wires together.
Basically stick one end of the paperclip or piece of wire into one prong on the
connector and stick the other end of the paperclip or wire into the other prong.

Once you have done this, turn the key to the IGN position and watch your MIL
light. It will illuminate in a series of flashes.

You will notice that there will be LONG flashes and SHORT flashes. All of the
ECU trouble codes are two-digits. LONG flashes determine the TENS digit by the
number of times it flashes, and SHORT flashes determine the ONES digit by the
number of times it flashes.

ie. LONG-LONG-LONG-SHORT-SHORT-SHORT-SHORT-PAUSE

is the trouble code: 34

3 LONG flashes followed by 4 short flashes, then a long pause. If that is the
only code the ECU is throwing, then the code will simply repeat until you remove
the key. If, however there are more than one ECU error code, then you will see a
different series of flashes followed by the long pause. Once all the ECU codes
have been displayed, they will continuously cycle until you remove the key.

ie. LONG-LONG-SHORT-PAUSE-LONG-LONG-LONG-LONG-SHORT-SHORT-SHORT-PAUSE

is the trouble code: 21 and 43

Once you have determined the codes, you can simply remove the paperclip or wire
from the connector.

So now you have the codes, what good are the numbers? What do they mean?



CODE DEFINITION

This sounds like the procedure for retrieving codes from PRE 1996, PRE
OBD-II vehicles.

AB
Long Island

David,

Is this information in the Honda Service Manual? I recently bought one for my
V but I've not had the time to look at it yet.

Thanks,
--Ron

So, did you get this from a site you can share with us? I was hoping
for something a little more technically advanced than a
paperclip. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) But, it seems to be good info.

It is in there..... kinda.... it's a bit hard to decipher.

It doesn't tell you how to read the codes, and it says that you need a Service
Connector Tool aka: paperclip!!!

David

Maybe so, but -- it works with CR-V's as well - and besides, that's what we're
interested in, right???

David

I found, and slightly modified the info from the FAQ at:
http://www.c-speedracing.com

David

According to the site, all the codes were for late 90's models.
Do we assume that Honda decided to keep them the same? I do
appreciate the info for sure.

Yea, they're all the same.

Eric

>

Yes, for the pre 1996 ecu, codes are the same. for 1996+ you'll probably
need some type of scan tool.

I've used a pc based one which seemed very basic, but effective. it will
read all codes and reset the light. I'll have to try and find out the
website it was purchased from.

Eric

>

Yes, that is exactly what I am looking for. Something that
links the vehicle to the laptop. My '02 V already had the MIL
lit.

www.obd-2.com
 
Erik

GREAT! So, you have used this device before and it worked for
you? Do all the feature work with the CRV?

I have used it on my 1997 Honda Prelude, and the CRV should be the same.  It works on any 1996+ car as long as you purchase the right gateway.  We don't have a CRV (yet), but the plans are to have Honda iron out any problems with the new model (2002+) and pick up a 2003 when the 2004s come out.  My 1997 Prelude (1st year of the new body style) had some minor annoyances that were fixed in the '98 and 99 model years, but my local dealer refused to do anything about (even under warranty). I try to avoid buying the 1st of anything b/c I hate my dealer and I don't want to see him anymore than I have to. :o)
 
As far as the device, I like it from a data logging aspect, and hope to be able to play around with it more as my time permits.  I've done little more than a few runs to collect some test data.  Considering the money you'd spend on a simple code reader, this thing really is leaps and bounds above them.  If you have a laptop, I highly recommend getting it.
 
Erik

This site doesn't refer to any Honda vehicles, only the american
cars. Any ideas?

"Package Features

Use Windows 3.1, 95, 98, ME, 2K, XP computer, 386 or higher, optimized for low cost laptops. Help files and free unlimited online tech support, including vehicle troubleshooting. Free software upgrades. 32 day money back guarantee. 2 year warranty. Includes protected RS-232 serial interface, OBD-II connector and cable (over 100 feet possible) and a selection of the below OBD-2 gateway routers.
$122 quantity one

Your choice of one of three possible OBDII gateway router interfaces: ISO - for European, Asian, Chrysler "
I think by Asian he is referring to Hondas too! If you check any other car boards or ML there is usually a group buy going on.  I purchased the triple combo for around $90 shipped ( I think it's $142 on the site).  If there is enough interest on this list, you should take a poll and ask Alex what kind of pricing he could offer.
 
Erik

Well, Yes, I guess Honda would fit right in that Asian field.
Didn't even think about it. I will search around some other
clubs for the group purchase.