VTEC is no longer engaging in the car, or if it is, it's hardly noticeable. The only clues I have are, before my catalytic converter got clogged, my VTEC was working just fine. I had gotten a CEL for catalyst deficiency, so I went ahead and bought an exhaust manifold and test pipe. Both were installed correctly, yet the CEL for the cat deficiency still remains (I cleared it, it came back on a day later) due to the test pipe. But would this cause the VTEC to not engage? The oil level is fine, but I've always had some slow leaks from the oil pan, but I don't think that is what's causing it to malfunction.

 

With your cel on more than likely it's running what you call "limp" mode and that is what is preventing you from using vtec, you had said that you installed a new manifold but did you install a converter as well? If you can get the cel taken care that will fix the vtec.

 

Well, since new catalytic converters are so expensive, I opted to get a test pipe instead, which in most cases cause a CEL since it's just a straight tube with no catalyst material in it. I'd hate not to have VTEC just because of this stupid TP.

 

If you are not in cali you can get MagnaFlow #22628 that will fit the 96-00 civic ex.

 

Those aren't too bad. They're way cheaper than a Honda converter. But what if I replace the cat, and I still get no VTEC? Like I said, the oil level and pressure should be fine and the solenoid was working pre-catalytic failure, so I doubt the solenoid is busted.

 

might consider trying one of these. i've heard they work pretty well at making that pesky o2 efficiency code go away

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/SAVE-...Race_Car_Parts

ignore the rest of the bs crap that's said in the listing though lol