Hey everyone,

I just picked up an 89 LXi for my winter beater last week. I got it for $50 so it was too good to pass up.

Anyways, the check engine light is on more than its off lately. Is there a way to read the codes without buying a scanner on these cars? I have Mustang and you can just use a jumper wire, but I'm not even sure where to start on these cars.

Also, how many miles to a tank should I expect with this car? Its an auto w/ 172k on it. I've gone 270 so far and the low fuel light hasn't come one yet, just curious if thats about right or not.

Thanks.

 

The ECU is mounted on the floor under the drivers seat. Flip down the little door on the back of it, and count the flashes of the LED. (If you push the seat all the way forward, it's easy to get to.)

 

Cool. So do I have to do anything to put it in test mode or will it just blink when I look at it? Sorry, I'm new to Hondas.

Also, is there a database to lookup the codes and how do I clear them? Just disconnect the battery.

Thanks.

 

You just need the key on. Disconnecting the battery will clear the code.
http://tech.hybridgarage.com/tech/codes.html

 

Thanks man, looks like I've got a code 6. ECT sensor. I'll check it out.

Thanks again for the help.

 

Make sure your coolant level isn't low.

 

It shouldn't be, I topped it off Saturday. The car had been sitting for 3 months and it was low when I got it.

The check engine light comes on after the car has been running for a few minutes, so it kinda makes sense about the ECT sensor.

Does it effect gas mileage much?

 

It can. If it's telling the ECU the engine is cold, it will run very rich.

 

Well damn, I hate to spend $30 for a part on a car I paid $50 for, but I'll pull it out and see if the connections are dirty or if its corroded.