I was wondering if I could get some info from you guys. My wifes check engine light came on today. on her 97 accord 4 cylinder. I don't want to take it to the dealer and pay their hacks to work on it. I don't have a code scanner to see what is wrong. What are the usual causes for this light. I was figuring it is an o2 censor. What all is the light monitoring? EGR valve, fuel system? Is there a way to find the code without a scanner? I will unhook the battery in the morning and see if it comes back on. I have heard a loose fuel cap can cause the light. Is that true?

You have a nice forum here, interesting to read the mods you all do to your hondas. The wifes is just a stock grocery getter. If you could give me some advice I would appreciate it.

 

I have zero experience in diagnosing CELs, but this page should help you:
http://www.eastcoastdelsol.com/columns/view.php?id=9

 

there is a jumper plugh on the passenger sider panel by the feet. pry open the panel, and there will be a pluug that you can jump to tell you the code. long flash means 10, and short flsh means 1. add em up and look up what the problem is. you can use anythign meta, such as a paperclip to jump the plug. just hook it up to both sides, and watch for the codes.

 

your vehicle has OBD2 which means that it is a newer generation of on board diagnostics...
to properly scan and delete codes you will need either a honda scanner or equivalate like a Snap-On scanner...
usually only dealers or your (reputable) local repair shop should have one...

where are you located?? i don't know about other shops but at my shop, we scan the computer at no cost... it takes like 5 minutes....

as for the 2-prong connector the last poster mentioned.....that is usually found only in OBD1 vehicles.....(Pre 1996)

 

Thank you guys for your help. I can't seem to find the plug mentioned in 4doorh22's link. So correct me if I am wrong, but I won't be able to find the code this way, and I will have to scan it. The dealers around here all want $75 to find the code. If anyone knows for sure if I can jump the computer and find the code that way, please tell me exactly where the plug I need is located.

Does anyone know where I can buy a scanner at a good price. It wouldn't take a couple of trips to the dealer to pay for one. Thanks for your help.