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dave98accord · Jan 4, 2009, 01:12 PM

My car just failed a NY inspection because the check engine light doesn't come on. It wasn't throwing any codes, the light wouldn't come on. The Mechanic told me to take it to the dealer to have the light bulb replaced. I checked other web sites and they advised that the #13 passenger side fuse be pulled to reset the light. Having removed the fuse the clock reset to 1:00 but the light did not come on. I just want to replace the light.

Is this difficult?

Thanks in advance.

TxGreaseMonkey · Jan 4, 2009, 01:17 PM

The ECM on Hondas is reset by pulling the underhood BACKUP Fuse (7.5A) for 10 seconds. Alternatively, the negative battery cable can be removed for 10 seconds--record any radio codes first.

Hard to believe the CEL is burnt out already on a '98 Accord. Try testing, removing, and cleaning the Back Up Light Fuse (likely 10A) in the underhood fuse box. While you are at it, test all underhood fuses with a test light or multimeter:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post252145

RickMN · Jan 4, 2009, 01:27 PM

Your best bet is to spend $10 for a 3-day pass to the Honda service website. There you can access the genuine Honda shop manual for your vehicle with factory pics on how to disassemble the instrument cluster. Here's the link: Honda Service Manual

dave98accord · Jan 4, 2009, 01:54 PM

Originally Posted by txgreasemonkey

The ECM on Hondas is reset by pulling the underhood BACKUP Fuse (7.5A) for 10 seconds. Alternatively, the negative battery cable can be removed for 10 seconds--record any radio codes first.

Hard to believe the CEL is burnt out already on a '98 Accord. Try testing, removing, and cleaning the Back Up Light Fuse (likely 10A) in the underhood fuse box. While you are at it, test all underhood fuses with a test light or multimeter:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post252145

Good thought.

Tried pulling the 7.5A from under hood box and it was clean and intact. Restarted car still no light.

TxGreaseMonkey · Jan 4, 2009, 01:56 PM

Using a test light or multimeter, turn ignition switch to ON and test for power through all underhood and underdash fuses. I've seen several situations lately where fuses have not passed current, due to corrosion. However, the fuses were good. I recently removed, one at a time, each underhood fuse in my Civic, cleaned both blades with 240 grit abrasive cloth, lightly coated them with dielectric grease, and replaced.

dave98accord · Jan 4, 2009, 01:57 PM

Originally Posted by txgreasemonkey

Using a test light or multimeter, turn ignition switch to ON and test for power through the fuse.

Ok Thanks! I need to get a multi meter first.
:(

TxGreaseMonkey · Jan 4, 2009, 02:10 PM

An inexpensive test light will work--every tool box should have one.

dave98accord · Jan 4, 2009, 03:49 PM

Thank you!

I will report back when I have this issue solved.

A loud Yee ha! To the Gentleman from The Great State!

dave98accord · Jan 6, 2009, 05:33 PM

And the winner is..

The bulb was burned out

TxGreaseMonkey · Jan 6, 2009, 06:28 PM

Congratulations--now you should pass inspection. Did you consult the online Honda Service Manual?

dave98accord · Jan 6, 2009, 07:13 PM

Nope, I ended up at the dealership for a diagnostic and the guy said he had been working for Honda since 1974 and had never seen this. They tore apart the dash and the bulb was toast. They did the job for a bit over $100 and yes I passed the inspection. Bloody useless thing.

A huge thanks to you TX and to Rick for your help!

TxGreaseMonkey · Jan 6, 2009, 07:14 PM

I have never seen a burned out CEL, either.

gokblok · Jan 5, 2010, 11:44 AM

YO--what size bulb is it? I can't find this info anywhere.. . Mine's burned out as well. 2000 model.

angler2 · Apr 21, 2013, 01:56 AM

Thank G__ someone answered this question! I've got the same problem in CA, and I need to find out how/where to replace the bulb?

gokblok · Apr 25, 2013, 03:59 PM

Wow. Old thread. I had to get the bulb from the dealer. It was like 3 bucks for 3 of them. You have to remove the instrument cluster to replace it. Remove the plastic cowl around the steering column, remove the plastic bezel around the instrument cluster (2 fasteners and 4 clips around the outside--they break really easy, so be careful), and remove the 4 fasteners that secure the instrument cluster to the frame of the dash. Remove the electrical connectors from the rear of the instrument cluster, and replace your bulb. You can shine a flashlight through from the back or at an angle on the front to make sure you're replacing the right bulb.