Symptom Troubleshooting Index

2002 Honda Civic SiSECTION Symptom Troubleshooting Index
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Acura MDX, 2005 Acura MDX, 2004 Acura MDX, and 2003 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING INDEX

Symptom Diagnostic procedure Also check for
Excessive engine oil consumption
  1. Check for looseness in the engine oil fill cap, oil drain bolt, and oil filter.
  2. Check for oil leaks.
  3. Check for worn valve guide(s) (seeVALVE INSPECTION ) or worn valve stem seal(s) (seeVALVE, SPRING, AND VALVE SEAL REMOVAL ).
  4. Check for damaged or worn piston ring(s) (seePISTON RING REPLACEMENT ).
  5. Check for damaged or worn engine internal parts (cylinder wall, pistons, etc.) (seeBLOCK AND PISTON INSPECTION ).
 
Low oil pressure indicator does not come on with the ignition switch ON (II)
  1. Do the gauge control unit input test (see CONTROL UNIT INPUT TEST ).
  2. Test the oil pressure switch (see OIL PRESSURE SWITCH TEST  ).
An open in the wire between the gauge control module and the oil pressure switch
Low oil pressure indicator stays on
  1. Check the engine oil level.
  2. Do the gauge control unit input test (see CONTROL UNIT INPUT TEST ).
  3. Test the oil pressure switch (see OIL PRESSURE SWITCH TEST  ).
  4. Check the engine oil pressure (see OIL PRESSURE TEST  ).
  5. Check the oil filter for clogging.
  6. Check the oil screen for clogging.
  7. Check the relief valve (see OIL PUMP OVERHAUL  ).
  8. Test the oil pump (see REMOVAL  ).
A wire shorted to ground between the gauge control module and the oil pressure switch
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.