2003 HONDA CIVIC code

General Troubleshooting Information
Intermittent Failures
The term "intermittent failure" means a svstem mav
have had a failure. but it checks OK now. lf the
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MlL) on the dash does not
come on, check for Door connections or loose terminals
at all connectors related to the circuit that Vou are
troubleshooting.
Opens and Shorts
"Ooen" and "Short" are common electrical terms. An
open is a break in a wire or at a connection. A short is
an accidental connection of a wire to ground or to
another wire. In simple electronics, this usually means
something won't work at all. With complex electronics(such as ECMs)this can sometimes mean something
works, but not the way it's supposed to.
How to Use the PGM Tester or a Scan Tool
lf the MIL {Malfunction Indicator Lamp} has come on
'1. Start the engine and check the MIL {A).
NOTE: lf the ignition switch is turned ON (ll), and
the engine is not started, the MIL will stay on for
15 20 seconds (see page 11-46).
K-> ;"PN/.- -::: - -d V-: !
w:ix&K#
2. lf the MIL stays on, connect the Honda PGM Tester(A) or an OBD ll scan tool to the Data Link
Connector {DLC) (B) located under the driver's side
of the dashboard.
3.
5.
Turn the ignition switch ON (ll).
Check the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and note
it. Also check the freeze data. Refer to the DTC
Troubleshooting Index, and begin the appropriate
troubleshooting procedure.
lf you do not find any DTCS, go to MIL circuit
troubleshooting (see page 11-97).
NOTE:. Freeze data indicates the engine conditions when the
first malfunction, misfire, or fuel trim malfunction
was detected.. The scan tool and the Honda PGM Tester can read the
DTC, freeze data, current data, and other Engine
Control l\4odule {EClvl) data.. For specific operations, refer to the user's manual
that came with the scan tool or Honda PG l\4 Tester.
lf the MIL did not stay
lf the MIL did not come on but there is a driveability
problem, refer to the Symptom Troubleshooting Index
in this section.
lf you can't duplicate the DTC
Some of the troubleshooting in this section requires
you to reset the ECM and try to duplicate the DTC. lf rhe
problem is intermittent and you can't duplicate the code,
do not continue through the procedure. To do so will
only result in confusion and, possibly, a needlessly
replaced ECM.
(cont'd)
11-3

Fuel and Emissions Systems
General Troubleshooting Information (cont'dl
How to Reset the ECM
You can reset the ECM in either of two ways:
. Use the OBD ll scantool or Honda PGMTesterto
reset the ECM memory.
See the OBD ll scan tool or Honda PGI\4 Tester user's
manuals for specific instructions.' Turn the ignition switch OFF, and remove the No. 6
ECU {ECM} (15A) fuse (A)from the under-hood fuse/
relav box (Blfor 10 seconds.
How to End a Troubleshooting Session
(required after any troubleshootingl
1. Reset the ECM as described above.
2. Do the ECM idle learn procedure (see page 11-139)
3. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
4. Disconnectthe OBD ll scan tool or Honda PGM
Tester from the DLC.
NOTE: The ECM is part of the immobilizer system.
lf vou replace the ECM, it will have a different
immobilizer code. In order for the engine to start,
you must rewrite the immobilizer code with the
Honda PGM Tester.
11-4
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How to Remove the ECM for Testing
1. Remove the passenger's dashboard lower cover
{see page 20-63), the passenger's kick panel (see
page 20-63), and the glove box (see page 20-63).
2. Remove the ECM mounting bolts (B) and the ECM
(c),
9.8 N.m{1.0 kgf.m,7.2lbt.ft}
3. Remove the ECM (B).
4. Installthe ECM in the reverse order of removal.
L

Fuel and Emissions Systems
General Troubleshooting Information (cont'd)
ECM Updating and Substitution for Testing
Special Tools Bequired
Honda Interface Module (HlM) EOS05435570
Use this procedure when you have to substitute a
known-good ECM in a troubleshooting procedure.
U pdate the ECM only if the ECN4 does not already have
the latest software loaded,
NOTE;. lMake sure the battery is fully charged before you
update the ECN4.. To prevent ECM damage during the update, do not
turn the ignition switch OFF, and do not use any of
the vehicle's electrical devices (light, horn, radio, etc. ).
How to Update the ECM
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (ll). Do not startthe
eng Ine.
2. Connect the Honda lnterface Module (HlM) to the
Data Link Connector {DLC) (A) located under the
driver's side of dashboard.
EOS05A35570
Do the ECM update procedure as described on the
HlN4 label and in the ECM update system.
11-6
\-
How to Substitute the ECM
'1. Remove the ECM f rom the vehicle.
2. Install a known-good ECM in the vehicle.
3. Rewrite the immobilizer code with the ECM
replacement procedure from the Honda PGM
Tester. lt allows you to start the engine.
4. After completing your tests, reinstall the original
ECM and rewrite the immobilizer code with the
ECM replacement procedure on the Honda PGM
Tester again.
L
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I

Fuel and Emissions Systems
Symptom Troubleshooting Index
When the vehicle has one of these symptoms, check the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) with the scan tool. lf there is no
DTC, do the diagnostic procedure for the symptom, in the sequence listed, until you find the cause.
SvmotomDiaqnostic procedureAlso check lor
Engine will not sta rt
(MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
1. Test the battery {see page 22-50).
2. Test the starter (see page 4-8).
3. Troubleshoot the fuel pump circult (see page 11
141).
Low compressron
No ignition spark
lntake air leaks
Locked up engine
Broken timing chain
Contaminated fuel
Engine will not start (MlL
comes on and stays on, or
never comes on at all, no
DTCS set)
Troubleshoot the l\4lL circuit (see page 1 '1-97).
Engine will not start
(immobilizer indicator stays
on or flashs)
Troubleshoot the immobilizer system (see page 22-165).
Hard starting(MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
1. Testthe battery (see page 22-50).
2. Checkthe fuel pressure (see page 11-145).
Low compression
Intake air leaks
Contaminated fuel
Cold fast idle too low(MlL works OK. no DTCS set)
1. Do the ECM idle learn procedure (see page 11-139).
2. Checkthe idle sDeed (see paqe 11-138).
Cold fast idle too high
(MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
Do the ECI\4 idle learn procedure (see page 1 1- 139).
Checkthe idle speed {see page 11-138).
Inspect/adjust the throttle cable (see page 1 '1-'163).
Inspect and test the throttle body {see page 1 1-160}.
']
2.
3.
ldle speed fluctuates
(MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
1. Dothe ECM idle learn procedure (see page 11-'139).
2. Check the idle speed (see page 11-138).
3, Inspecvadjust th e throttle cable (see page 11''163).
4. Insoect and test the throttle bodv (see paqe 11- 160)
Intake air leaks
After warming up, idle speed
is below specifications with
no load
{MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
1. Do the ECIVI idle learn procedure (see page 1 1- 139).
2. Troubleshootthe alternator FR signal circuit (see
page 11-'134).
3. InsDect and test the throttle bodv {see paqe 1 1-160).
Vacuum hose clogged/
cracked/poor
connectron
After warming up, idle speed
is above specifications with
no toao(MlL works OK. no DTCS set)
1. Do the ECM idle learn procedure {see page 1'j-139).
2. Troubleshoot the alternator FR signal circuit(see
page 11-134).
Low power
(MlL works OK, no DTCS set)
1. Check the fuel pressure(seepagell-145).
2. Inspect and test the th roftle body (see page 11-160).
3. Inspecvadjust the throttle cable (see page 11-'163).
Low compressron
Camshaft timing
problem
Engine oil levelprootem
Engine stalls(MlL works OK. no DTCS set)
1. Do the ECM idle learn procedure (see page 1'l'139).
2. Check the fuel pressure{seepagell-145).
3. Check the idle speed (see page I 1-138).
4. Troubleshootthe brake pedal position switch signal
circuit (see paqe 11-137).
lntake air leaks
Faulty harness and
sensor connections
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11-10
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Fuel and Emissions Systems
System Descriptions
Electronic Control System
The functions of the fuel and emlssion control systems are managed by the engine control module (ECM).
Fail-safe Function
When an abnormality occurs in the signal from a sensor, the ECI\4 ignores that signal and assumes a pre-programmed
value for that sensor that allows the enqine to continue to run.
Back-up Function
When an abnormality occurs in the ECM, the injectors are controlled by a back-up circuit independent of the system to
permit minimal driving.
Self-diagnosis
When an abnormality occurs in the signal from a sensor, the ECM supplies ground for the malfunction indicator lamp
{MlL) and stores the diagnostic trouble code {DTC) in erasable memory. When the ignition is first turned on, the EClvl
supplies ground to the l\4lL for 15 to 20 seconds to check the M lL bulb condition.
Two Driving Cycle Detection Method
To prevent false indications, the "two driving cycle detection method" is used for some self-diagnostic functions.
When an abnormality occurs, the ECM stores it in its memory. When the same abnormality recurs afterthe ignition
switch is turned OFF and ON (ll) again, the ECM turns on the MlL.
\
11-12
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ECM Data
You can retrieve data from the ECI\4 by connecting the OBD ll scan tool or the Honda PGM Tester to the data link
connector (DLC). The items listed in the table below conform to SAE recommended practice. The Honda PGM Tester
also reads data beyond that recommended by SAE to help you find the causes of intermittent problems.
The "operating values" listed are approximate and may vary depending on the environment and the individual
vehicle.
Unless noted otherwise, "at idle speed" means idling with the engine completely warmed up in the neutral position,
and the A,/C and all
Diagnostic
Trouble Code(DTC}
lf the ECM delects a problem, it will store it as a code
consisting of one letter and four numbers. Depending on
the problem, an SAE-defined code (Poxxx) or a Honda,
defined code {P1xxx) will be output to the tester.
The ECI\4 computes engine speed from the signals sent
from the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor. This data is
used for determining the time and amount of injected fuel.
detected, there is no
ourpul.
lf no problem is YES
Nearly the same as
tachometer indication
At idle speed;
The ECM converts pulse signals from the vehicle speed
sensor (VSS).Nearly the same as
speedometer
indication
Manifold
Absolute
Pressure(MAP)
The absolute pressure caused in the intake manifold by
engine load and speed.
With engine stopped: YES
Nearly the same as
almospnenc pressure.
At idle speed: about
20 4'1 kPa(150 310 mmHg,
6- 12 in.Hq).0.7 1.3 V
The ECT sensor converts coolant temperature into voltage
and signals the ECM. The sensor is a thermistor whose
internal resistance changes with coolant tempetature. The
ECM uses the voltage signals from the ECT sensor to
determine the amount of injected fuel.
With cold engine:
Same as ambient
temperature and IAT
With engine warmed
up; about 116 2'12"F
100'c).0.5-0.8 v
Air Fuel Ratio The A,/F sensor detects the oxygen content in the exha ust 0.0 - 1 .25 V(Ay'F) Sensor. gas and sends voltage signals to the Eclvl, Basedonthese 8.0 11.0mA(PGM(Sensor 1) signals, the ECM controls the airlfuel ratio. When the I Tester)
oxygen content is high (that is, when the ratio is leaner At idle speed:
than the stoichiometric ratio), the voltage signal is Iower. about 0.1 0.9 V
When the oxygen content is low (that is, when the ralio is
richer than the stoichiometric ratio). the voltage signal is
higher. The A'lF sensor signals are electrical current that
are indicated as voltaqe on the
The HO2S detects the oxygen content in the exhaust gas
and sends voltage signals to the ECM. Based on these
signals, the ECM controls the airlfuel ratio. When the
oxygen content is high (that is, when the ratio is leaner
than the stoichiometric ratio), the voltage signal is lower.
When the oxygen content is low (that is, when the ratio is
richer than the stoichiometric ratio), the voltage signal is
Secondary
Heated
Oxygen
Sensor(Secondary
H02S,
Sensor2)
0.0 1.25 V NO
At idle speed:
about 0.1 0.9 V
(cont'd)
11-13

ECM Inputs and Outputs at Connector E (31P)
ltMoFPR
2$.c2s
i6SFIO2SHTC
1
IV RLY
IAFSHTCR
9tGl
14FTP15ELD
16EPSLD
t8202,4/BS21VSV
22BKSW23K LINE24SEFMJ26NEP
21lvoCD
29scs30WEN31MIL
Wire side of female terminals
NOTE: Standard battery voltage is 12 V.
TerminalWire colorTerminalnameDescriptionSignal
20BLU/RED2WBS (EVAPORATIVEEMISSION (EVAP)BYPASSSOLENOID VALVE)
Drives EVAP bypass With ignition switch ON (ll): baftery voltagesolenoid valve
21LT GRN/REDVSV (EVAPORATIVE
EI\4ISSION iEVAP)CANISTEB VENT SHUTVALVE)
Drives EVAP canister ventshut valveWith ignilion switch ON (ll): battery voltage
22WHT/BLKBKSW lBRAKE PEDALPOSITION SWITCH)Detects brake pedaloosition switch sionalWith brake pedal released: about 0 VWith hrake nedal nresse.l: batterv voltaoe23LT BLUK-LIN ESends and receives scanWith ignition switch ON (li)r pulses or battery
YELSEFMJCommunicates withmrltinleY eontrol unitWith ignition switch ON (ll): about 5 VWith enoine runnino under load: DUlses26BLUNEP (ENGINE SPEEDPULSE)Outputs engine speed pulseWith engine running: pulses
21RED/BLU \40CD fl\4MOBTLTZERCODE)Detects imrnobilizer signal
29BRNSCS (SERVICE CHECKSIGNAL)Oetects service check signalWith the service check signal shorted with the PGMTester: about 0 VWiih rhe service check sional ooened: about 5 V
30RED,A/VHTWEN (WRITE ENABLESIGNALiDetects write enable signal With ignition switch ON (ll): about 0 V
GRN/ORNMIL (MALFUNCTION
INDICATOR LAMP)Drives N4lLWith MIL turned ON: about 0 VWith MIL turned OFF: batterv voltaqe
(cont'd)
11-23

lgnition Timing Control
The ECM contains the memory for basic ignition timing
at various engine speeds and manifold absolute
pressure. lt also adjusts the timing according to engine
coolant temperature.
Iniector Timing and Duration
The ECM contains the memory for basic discharge
duration at various engine speeds and manifold
pressures. The basic discharge duration, after being
read out from the memory, is further modified by
signals sent from various sensors to obtain the final
discharge duration.
By monitoring long term fuel trim, the ECM detects long
term malfunctions in the fuel system and sets a
Diagnostic Trouble Code {DTC).
Intake Air Temperature (lAT) Sensor
The IAT sensor is a temperature dependent resistor
{thermistor). The resistance of the thermistor decreases
as the intake air temDerature increases.
Knock Sensor
The knock control system adjusts the ignition timing to
minimize knock.
PIEZOCERAMIC
Malfunction Indicator Lamp lMlLl Indication {ln relation
to Readiness Codes)
The vehicle has certain "readiness codes" that are part
of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems.
lf the vehicle's baftery has been disconnected or gone
dead. if the DTCS have been cleared, or if the ECM has
been reset. these codes are set to incomplete. In some
states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure
these codes are set to comDlete. lf all of them are not
set to complete, the vehicle may fail the test and the
test cannot be finished.
To check if the readiness codes are set to complete,
turn the ignition switch ON (ll). but do not start the
engine.TheMILwill comeonforlS 20seconds. lf it
then goes off, the readiness codes are set to complete,
lf it blinks severaltimes, one or more readiness codes
are not set to comolete. To set each code, drive the
vehicle or run the engine as described in the
procedures to set them in this section (see page 1 1-46).
Manifold Absolute Pressure {MAP) Senso]
The MAP sensor converts manifold absolute pressure
into electrical signals to the ECM.
SENSOR UNIT
(cont'd)
11-27