Make: Honda
> Model: Prelude
> Year: 1996
> Trim Line: VTEC
>
> Check engine light came on. I have the Helm manual, so I jumpered the
> service check connector as described in the manual.
>
> I then turned the key to just before engine start, and the Check
> engine light stays on solid. (It flickers briefly, as it normally does
> when starting. )
>
> No blink code. Solid MIL. Is this blink code "0" ?
>
> It says if the code is not listed, replace the ECM. But there is a
> "0" code. I am just a little lost on how to interpret that. (or maybe
> I'm scared to lookup the cost of a new ECM. It sounds expensive.) >
> I also checked the flow chart "Checking the ECM". The box I get stuck
> at is "Does the MIL indicate any DTC? (this is after jumpering)
> If yes, go to the diagnostic codes page. This puts me back to square > one.
> If I assume "no", then I need a harness and some other equipment which > I don't have..
>
> Oh, there is no noticeable problem with the car, except the MIL. It
> runs fine and the MPG is about the same.
>
> The only thing I have left is to reset the ECM, but I thought I would
> check here first and see if someone has been down this road.
>
> Randall Fox
I'm as puzzled as you are about the MIL being on and no codes, but I wonder if a regular OBDII reader would retrieve codes. Many auto parts chains are offering to read codes for free in hopes they can make a sale of repair parts - it's a good service.
I agree with the next step if you don't get anywhere that way - reset it and see what happens. As long as the engine runs okay and the mpg is not way lower, the light isn't trying to tell you anything you care about. Drive happy!
If the worst comes to pass and you have to get a replacement ECM, wrecking yards are definitely the way to go. ECMs from '96 cars are very common in wrecking yards now, and one with a 30 day warranty (plenty of time to make sure you didn't get a bad one) are usually in the $100 range. You don't want to buy one from Honda, I am sure.
Mike