I just purchased a 97 accord lx auto with 136k on the clock. The c.e.l is not illuminated but i think the bulb is out, when i put a scan tool on it it shows a code for the coolant temp sebsor & when i look at a live gauge using tirque, it always show -40F. I know this will cause a hard start but would it also cause the transmission to shift harsh? I checked the fluid the honda way, engine off attemp & fluid is brown but no particulate. Im going to do a drain & fill once i get some honda atf but i was wondering if that c.t.s could do it too

 

If the temp sensor is setting a code, check the wire harness to the sensor, if the sensor is out of spec it will cause driveability issues. Transmission will shift incorrectly, engine will run rich and a few other issues.

Fix the sensor issue, replace the CEL lamp and the car should run fine.

 

One question on the subject of bulbs. The previous owner put the wrong led's in the cluster but they make the needles almost invisible at night, i know some of thebulbs are a #74 but what about the rest? And how many of each? Im going to order them off ebay along with some uv leled's and florescent paint for the needles