Part One
How to Troubleshoot the CVT System
How to Check for DTCs with the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS)
When the powertrain control module (PCM) senses an abnormality in the input or output system, the D indicator (A) in the gauge control module (tach) (B) will usually blink.
When the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) is connected to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard, and when the ignition switch is turned to ON (II) and the appropriate menu is selected, it will indicate the diagnostic trouble code (DTC).
If the D indicator or the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) has been reported on, or if a driveability problem is suspected, follow this procedure:
1. Connect the HDS to the DLC. (See the HDS user's manual for specific instructions.)
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Make sure the HDS communicates with the PCM. If it does not, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting Testing and Inspection.
3. Check for Pending or Confirmed DTC with the HDS.
4. Record the freeze data and the on-board snapshots for all fuel and emissions DTCs and A/T DTCs.
5. If there is a fuel and emissions DTC, first check the fuel and emissions system as indicated by the DTC.
6. Clear the DTC and the data.
7. Drive the vehicle for several minutes under the same conditions as those indicated by the freeze data, and then recheck for a DTC. If the A/T DTC returns, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting. If the DTC does not return, there was an intermittent problem within the circuit. Make sure all pins and terminals in the circuit are tight.
Symptom Troubleshooting Versus DTC Troubleshooting
Some symptoms will not set DTCs or cause the D indicator to blink. If the MIL was reported on or the D indicator has been blinking, check for DTCs. If the vehicle has an abnormal symptom, and there are no DTCs stored, do the symptom troubleshooting. Check the list of probable cause(s) for the symptom, in the sequence listed, until you find the problem.
How to Check for DTCs with the SCS Mode (retrieving the flash codes)
NOTE: The preferred method is to use the HDS to retrieve the DTCs.
When the PCM senses an abnormality in the input or output system, the D indicator (A) in the gauge control module (tach) (B) will usually blink.
When the D indicator has been reported on, connect the HDS to the DLC (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), select SCS mode, then the D indicator will indicate (blink) the DTC.
If the D indicator and the MIL come on at the same time, or if a driveability problem is suspected, follow this procedure:
1. Connect the HDS to the DLC. (See the HDS user's manual for specific instructions.)
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Make sure the HDS communicates with the PCM. If it does not, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting Testing and Inspection.
3. Select SCS mode, then observe the D indicator in the gauge control module (tach). Codes 1 through 9 are indicated by individual short blinks. Codes 10 and above are indicated by a series of long and short blinks. One long blink equals 10 short blinks. Add the long and short blinks together to determine the code.
4. Record all fuel and emissions DTCs and A/T DTCs.
5. If there is a fuel and emissions DTC, first check the fuel and emissions system as indicated by the DTC.
6. Clear the DTC and the data.
7. If the freeze data is available, drive the vehicle for several minutes with periods of wide open throttle, steady cruise, and stop and go, and then recheck for DTCs. If the A/T DTC returns, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting. If the DTC does not return, there was an intermittent problem within the circuit. Make sure all pins and terminals in the circuit are tight.