[Autumnwillow]

1998 Honda Civic EX coupe, 222K miles, original owner, timing belts/ water pumps changed every 100K

Car just stopped while driving Sunday, we did some research and decided to replace the ignition coil... my brother is mechanically inclined but not familiar with Hondas. So he replaced it, and the spark plugs and wires (which were not changed in a VERY long time, I though they had been but when I called my mechanic he said he didn't do it) the car started and I'm ecstatic. It runs much smoother and quieter than before!

Here's the rub. The check engine light stays on, and I noticed that all of the lights in the car (inside and out-headlights etc) are "pulsing" gently, and the speedometer will jump every now and again while I'm sitting at an idle.? We did try to reset the computer by disconnecting the battery for about a minute, that didn't do the trick. Any thoughts?

Thank you in advance...

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Since the CEL stays on, one or more codes is stored in the ECM. Attach a code reader to the Data Link Connector, under the dash, and find out what codes were thrown. Personally, I would have your brother also replace the Ignition Control Module (ICM):

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post265896

I recommend replacing the coil and ICM every 120,000 miles or 10 years, whichever comes first. I would also remove and fully charge the battery. If the pulsing persists, have the alternator checked. Most auto parts stores will charge batteries and check alternators for free.

[Autumnwillow]

Hey thanks txgreasemonkey (love the name)...

I just did some searching and apparently this is a common issue with my year Civic.. something to do with the engine wire harness rubbing against the intake manifold bracket, shorting it out and blowing fuse 15... here's a link to the pdf from Honda. I just had the manifold replaced, before my drive to Florida from Virginia. Yeah. I don't know if that CAUSED any of my other problems, but apparently this is an easy fix involving getting upclose and personal with the underside of my car, some electrical tape and replacing a fuse. We shall see... has anyone else had to do this or heard of this?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

As mentioned above, I would check for codes and go from there. If it ends up being what's described in the pdf file, I would try and replace that section of harness, rather than tape it.