Hi,

my 93 civic hatch died on me the other day while driving. it pretty much felt like i had run out of gas, even though i had a half tank left. so i got it towed to my house, and performed the little paper clip diagnostic test, and when i did, the check engine light came on and stayed on. when i take the paper clip out, the check engine light comes on for two seconds, the i hear a click and it goes off.

so it seems like im gettin error code 0, which means bad ecu.

what could be the problem. im a complete noob so step-by-step instructions please.

thanks a lot

txgreasemonkey

. Perform the K-Test on the ECM:

Remove the MAP Sensor connector and turn the ignition switch to ON (not start). Using a multimeter, check for 5 volts going between the MAP Sensor connector's reference wire (+) and ground. As you look at the connector, this is the socket on the right. Really press the black test lead into a cleaned main ECM ground on the thermostat housing. If the voltage is low, it’s probably indicating ECM failure. Most failed ECMs will record a fraction of a volt. To me, the K-Test is simple, elegant, and accurate.

. If the K-Test indicates the ECM is bad, here's how to replace the ECM:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post235038

Buy a remanufactured ECM for around $260, with a lifetime warranty, from O'Reilly Auto Parts. On E-Bay they go for around $120. Honda wants around $1,000, with a 1-year warranty.

poopstar

where do i locate the map sensor?

txgreasemonkey

Normally, it's to the right of the fuel filter, along the firewall.

poopstar

is it on the passenger side, or driver?
i don't know where the fuel filter is.

txgreasemonkey

Passenger side, just to the right of the battery. Look for the long wire and connector going to the MAP Sensor. The MAP Sensor, also, has a vacuum hose going into it.

poopstar

k i just tried the k test, and it IS getting 5 v...what could the problem be...any specific fuses i should check?

poopstar

wait...first i wanna knwo if i did it right:
i foudn the map snsor, unplugged the connector..put the multimeter red wire in the right socket (+) of the map sensor, and the black wire from the multimeter to a bolt on my car.
it read 5 v

txgreasemonkey

You did the K-Test properly and your ECM should be okay.

. Test all under-dash and under-hood fuses with a test light or multimeter:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post252145

. Test for spark.

. Test the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and coil, which is inside the distributor:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post265896

AutoZone can do this for free.

. Replace fuel filter:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post224689

The odds are that the problems resides in the distributor; e.g., a bad ICM or coil. If you plan on keeping the car, I would also replace the rotor, distributor cap, spark plugs, and spark plug wires.

poopstar

i just need something to make it run again. and i wanna sell it as soon as its functioning again. any cheap way of doing this. the thing is, i don't think theres an autozone here. im in Toronto. also, the car is not starting and its in my driveway, so to take it to a shop, ill hav to get it towed, which costs $$$....