My 1997 Accord 2.2L (230k miles) has been in limp mode for a few months now.
I am assuming it is in limp mode because it limits the rpm to ~4800 when accelerating.

I bought a CEL Reader and it comes up as P1253 - VTEC Malfunction.
When I clear the code, it comes back immediately. I removed the ground wire from my battery overnight to try to clear the CEL, but it still came back on immediately upon starting the car. I didn't even have to activate VTEC by driving, to get the CEL to come back.

I have replaced the air filter and got my oil changed last week.
I read that both issues could potentially cause a P1253 (low oil level or low airflow).

I have also read that there are tons of other reasons a P1253 could appear:
fuel filter
oil pressure sensor
Open or Short in VTEC Solenoid Valve circuit
Open or Short in VTEC Pressure Switch Circuit
VTEC Pressure Switch
ECM

Does anyone have any other ideas before I bow down and take it to a Honda shop?

Thanks in advance!

 

No ideas?

 

Have you tested any of the sensors you posted here? If not you should get yourself an Accord service manual and run the diagnostics tests for those sensors.

 

Can someone confirm the actual engine I have?

The Service Manual I have shows a different VTEC Solenoid valve.
The VTEC Pressure Sensor shown in the manual is connected to the solenoid valve.
My solenoid valve doesn't appear to have the pressure sensor attached.

Is it located elsewhere? I can't seem to find it and I can't find a different solenoid valve orientation in any of the Accord Supplemental guides.

Thank you for your help!

 

The OBD2 96-97 F22B1 VTEC for the Accord does not have a dedicated oil pressure sensor.

 

Doh! No wonder it is so hard to find!

I guess my next step should be to test the solenoid valve or remove it to see if the screen is plugged.

Thank you.

 

I found the problem!

While trying to disconnected the solenoid connector, the wire with pin easily pulled out of the connector housing.

Because the pin socket was loose, I removed the connectors completely and soldered the wires, then covered them with heat shrink tubing.

I started my car up, cleared the code with my code reader and took it for a test drive.
Woo-hoo! Finally! VTEC Baby!

Thank you for your suggestions!

 

can you reset the computer by dis connecting the battery?

 

Yes

 

Ok today I took mine off and cleaned all the gunk out with brake cleaner...i put it back on and reset the computer and drove it...it runs perfect now with no check engine light on