Hey guys need some help here.

I have a 1998 base model automatic accord. Two weeks ago my car had problem starting. I turned the key and it would crank but took a few tries before it started. After that the engine threw a check engine code. The car have been starting fine ever since but it would feel like it is lacking power.

I finally jumped the code using the paper clip method and got a 61. From the code list it said

P1149 61 Primary HO2S (Sensor 1) Circuit Range/Performance Problem
P1163 61 Primary HO2S (No. 1) Circuit Slow Response
P1164 61 Primary HO2S (No. 1) Circuit Range/Performance
P1165 61 Primary HO2S (No. 1) Circuit Range/Performance

I searched the forum and a few threads said this is covered by HONDA MOTORS. I called my local dealers and they said that I would have to pay a fee to get it checked and if it is under warranty the initial fee is waived. ($110 or so). I can't afford to take my car in and to find out that I am wrong and would have to pay the initial fee to fix something else.

I also ran my VIN and pulled up a recall notice
| Safety Recall: Ignition Switch Interlock
| Dear Honda Owner:
|
| This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic | and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
|
| What is the reason for this notice?
| Honda Motor Co., Ltd., has determined that a defect relating to motor vehicle safety | exists in certain 1998-99 Accords and 1999 Odysseys with automatic transmissions.


Can I fix this on my own? Please help me out. THANKS!

-mike

 

What you are getting is a bad O2 sensor reading. Not that big a deal. Yes, you can take care of this yourself. Lot's of info here on 02 sensors. I am just going to through a few basics to get you started.

An 02 sensor simply pulses a current back to the ECU (computer) based on what the exhaust is doing. One in the exhaust manifold and one behind the catalytic converter. The ECU uses this information to adjust fuel delivery amounts to the cylinders based on what how the sensors tell it the fuel is burning. Too rich (too much fuel left in exhaust) and it leans down the ratio. Too lean and it increases fuel by holding the injector open a split second longer. The computer is constantly averaging the reads back from the sensor.

Before you pay $150 for a new sensor (the codes indicate primary, so you are dealing with the one in the exhaust manifold), test it with a meter and make sure it is clean on the outside. The O2 sensor needs to be clean and undamaged on the outside as well as the inside. It it gets covered in oil and 'muck' it can effect its operation and give bad signals to the computer.

Check the connector to the wiring harness, and the leads to the sensor for nicks an cuts. With the engine running (hot manifold and moving fan blades, be careful) and the meter grounded to the engine. The 02 sensor should read between .1volt and 1 volt. If the voltage is out of this range or you are not getting any voltage, then you likely need to replace the sensor.

There is a special tool that is made to make it easier to replace. Your local parts house should be able to loan/rent it to you when you buy the new sensor. Like a spark plug, they are not a robust piece of steel. Don't force anything. Make sure the threads are lined up in the manifold and spin hand tight before putting the tool on the hex. Don't force an electrical connector on or off.

It is not any more difficult than changing your spark plugs. Just more expensive if you damage one. But this is well within anyone's range whom has worked on vehicles.

 

As to the recall, take it to a Honda dealer and have them run your VIN through their system to see if the recall has been done by a previous owner. If it has not they should perform the recall work free of charge, as this is a safety/liability issue for Honda and the dealership will bill Honda for the work.

 

Thank you tejasNW your response is much appreciated. I will indeed take a look at the O2 sensor you mentioned. This at least gives me a head start as to where to look.

When I called the dealer before I posted this morning the tone of their voice sounded as if they were very reluctant to put in an effort to help. Probably because I don't have a newer vehicle. God damn stealerships!

-mike