check engine light

First thing, find out what code has been set causing your check engine light.

Autozone or O'Reillys will do this for you for free.

Once you have the code(s), post it here and we will try to help you.

8 years and never any maintenance?

Do you do maintenance? It will definitely be a problem if you don't maintain it for 8 years.

I've had it maintained regularly.

well, now the ignition won't work at all so I'm going to try to replace it at home here, or I'll have to have it towed for service.

dianeseattle said:

well, now the ignition won't work at all so I'm going to try to replace it at home here, or I'll have to have it towed for service.

Click to expand...

Before you go any farther, check the condition of your negative battery cable down where it bolts to your engine block. A known problem area for Elements, the last few inches of the cable have no insulation from the factory and are known to corrode there.

It's a simple fix and inexpensive, so start there.

Hope this helps.

dianeseattle said:

I've had my 2003 E for 8 years. Only time it's been in the shop was to replace the stolen catalytic converter. I know I'm very lucky. But last time I drove it the "check engine" light came on. I was a few blocks from home so I just ended my trip and parked it.

I've started it twice since then and the light's still on. Consulting the owners manual, I get the impression that this is an emissions issue, but I don't have to rush to a mechanic. Still, it does need attention.

Can anyone recommend a good independent mechanic for Hondas? I'm in West Seattle, on Social Security. I need someone ethical who might be willing to take payments.

-- diane

Click to expand...

If your catalytic converter that replaced your original one is an aftermarket they only last a few years worth of driving. Only OEM's last the lifetime of the vehicle. If it's been about that long you're probably due for another catalytic converter.

dianeseattle said:

I've had my 2003 E for 8 years. Only time it's been in the shop was to replace the stolen catalytic converter. I know I'm very lucky. But last time I drove it the "check engine" light came on. I was a few blocks from home so I just ended my trip and parked it.

I've started it twice since then and the light's still on. Consulting the owners manual, I get the impression that this is an emissions issue, but I don't have to rush to a mechanic. Still, it does need attention.

Can anyone recommend a good independent mechanic for Hondas? I'm in West Seattle, on Social Security. I need someone ethical who might be willing to take payments.

-- diane

Click to expand...

I suggest you go to Advance Auto or AutoZone or whichever and get the error identified on a code scanner (if you don't have one).

My '08 has a non-Honda CC. It was there when I purchased the car. After a year, I started to get a related CE light. On my reader, the fault is "Catalytic Converter below threshold". I can clear it and it will be a while before it comes back on (sometimes days, sometimes months). Also, this happens randomly throughout the 4 seasons. My conclusion is that the car is measuring data from the O2 sensors and comparing over time....and if the CC is performing in a degraded state, it throws a code. I also believe that there are many variables that will impact the sensor reading such as temperature, humidity, smoke/smog, etc. A CC is chemistry at work. I live in a state with no emissions tests so I'm will just ignore it...and continue to clear the code.

If that is the code you get, at least you know and perhaps can choose your path.