jillygirl13

How do I check CEL codes without a code reader on my 04 element? I have searched but only found older CRV information.

redbull-1

Autozone and some other parts stores will read trouble codes for you for no charge; or if in California loan you the reader for free with a refundable deposit. Aamco will also do it for free; but, don't let them use that to get you to pay for a diagnostic if you don't want it.

jillygirl13

Hi Redbull-1, you helped me with the replacement of my camshaft position sensor and 2 A/F ratio sensors last week. I took your advice and replaced all 3 at a cost of about $350. Anxious to know the results, I didn't want to wait for my friend with the reader to get back from vacation next week.
I am in California and nobody gives free code reading or free rental of a code reader anymore. I heard that they recently passed a law that prohibits free code reading in California. So I read up on the internal code reading procedure, where you insert the ends of a jump wire or paperclip into the data link connector(DLC) located under the driver's side of the dashboard and dash lights would blink out the codes. It sounded too dangerous.
I finally found a friend of a friend who had a code reader, and I'm pleased to say that I'm down to one code now. Again! Thank you for your help. What's weird is, the code I'm getting is different from the 3 from before, P0011, P1157 & P2646. Now I'm getting P0135 *Primary heated oxygen sensor (primary HO2S) (sensor 1) heater circuit malfunction. I just looked it up at Denso and its one of the parts I just replaced. I guess I need to check if its in right and check the wiring. Whats your thoughts? Thanks, Jill

jillygirl13

P0135 is defined as a problem with the O2 sensor heater circuit. Not the O2 sensor function itself. A "cold" O2 sensor cannot monitor A/F mixture which is why an additional heater circuit was added. It comes on when the engine is cold to warm up the sensor rapidly.
We went back and pulled the 02 sensor out and tested it with a voltage meter, messed with the wires, check the fuses and the thermostat, but really didn't notice anything wrong. When we started the motor......the check engine light was out! Finally out!! Drove it a couple of days to make sure it stayed out, and took it in today and it passed smog. They did say it is still running a little too rich and wasting gas, but it passed smog and now I can get my tags. Thanks again for your help. I know it would have costed us a lot more if you hadn't help narrow it down.
Now its time to fix the motor mounts, drivers door lock, passenger window and I heard some squeaking from the brakes yesterday! My baby is getting older, and like me, some of his parts are wearing out! LOL