Lately, my engine has been acting up, which I descibe as a "lugging" feeling. To sort of describe how it feels, it feels like the transmission is upshifting, but the transmission isn't moving. Now here's what actually happens: engine rpms drop anywhere from 250-500, the check engine light ticks on and off as the rpms drop, and I think ive heard a ticking noise coming from the engine- all at the same time. This typically happens while I'm in park, and it usually happens when the engine is completely warmed up. (I.e. the return trip from a quick run to the store.) Here is a video I finally captured of the problem occurring.
https://linksharing.samsungcloud.com/8G5BywrIGWTl

A mechanic friend of mine who specializes in Asian vehicles recommends replacing the distributor because Hondas typically have bad distributors.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

Not clicking that link, but if your engine rpm is dropping to 250-500 then it's going to be a IACV issue at idle. You need to get the check engine code first.

 

I have been trying for weeks to read the engine code. Every time I go to Autozone, the CEL turns off and the code reader doesn't detect anything.

 

I watched the video. wow, may be hard to troubleshoot this. It looks like whatever is causing the check engine light to come on also causes the engine to "dip". Not sure if the engine dip is bc of the ECU error or because of its own fault.
Sooo you need to start somewhere here. Examples:

- It sounds like the ticking noise is a relay trying to come on, like your cooling fan or AC fan. If the motor is bad then this may be things switching off...
- Make sure everything is off! Lights, heat, AC, etc. Then locate this click sound, Find out what exactly is making the click, guessing it's either under the hood fuse box or under by the drivers feet.

I think once you find the click you'll figure this out. I'd say something is trying to "turn on" like a fan and it's faking out. Bad ground, power wire, etc. Is your cooling fan working ?

 

I have since replaced all my spark plugs and the distributor. Problem still occurs. I will try to locate the cause of the noise.

 

So a couple days ago I replaced my IACV having been told that was the likely problem. But the problem still occurs. I have no idea what to do.