FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Honda/Accord/8th Generation (2008-2012)/why does my Honda Accord 8th Generation (2008-2012) check engine light keep coming on

why does my Honda Accord 8th Generation (2008-2012) check engine light keep coming on

Honda Accord 8th Generation (2008-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04201-3 hours
3 min read
545 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the P0420 check engine light issue in Honda Accord 8th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Engine
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before performing any maintenance to prevent burns.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or stalling
  • •Decreased fuel efficiency
  • •Unusual engine noises
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Increased emissions or failed emissions test

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific fault codes.
  2. 2Inspect the gas cap for damage or improper sealing.
  3. 3Check engine oil and coolant levels to ensure they are within normal ranges.
  4. 4Inspect the air filter and intake system for obstructions or leaks.
  5. 5Examine spark plugs and ignition coils for wear or malfunction.
  6. 6Test the fuel system pressure to ensure proper fuel delivery.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Address Fault Codes

  • Use the OBD-II scanner to retrieve and document all stored fault codes.
  • Research codes to identify the specific issue (e.g., P0420 for catalytic converter efficiency).

3. Repair According to Identified Issues

A. If gas cap is faulty:

  • Remove the gas cap and inspect for cracks or damage.
  • Replace with a new gas cap if necessary.

B. If spark plugs or ignition coils are faulty:

  • Remove the engine cover (if applicable).
  • Disconnect the ignition coil connectors and remove the bolts securing them.
  • Replace faulty coils and spark plugs with new ones, ensuring proper torque (typically 13-15 lb-ft for spark plugs).

C. If air filter is dirty:

  • Remove the air filter housing cover.
  • Replace the old air filter with a new one, ensuring it fits snugly.

D. If fuel system pressure is low:

  • Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail.
  • If the pressure is below specifications, check the fuel pump and replace if necessary.

4. Reconnect Battery

  • Once repairs are completed, reconnect the battery terminals securely.

5. Clear Codes

  • Use the OBD-II scanner to clear the codes and reset the check engine light.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Screwdrivers

Parts Required

  • New gas cap (if faulty)
  • Spark plugs
  • Ignition coils (if faulty)
  • Air filter
  • Fuel pump (if necessary)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Engine

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

5 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022) headlights flicker when I accelerate what’s going on

    Learn how to diagnose and fix flickering headlights during acceleration in Honda Accord 2018-2022. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and r...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Headlights flicker or dim during acceleration
    • •Dashboard lights may also flicker
    • +{count} more
  2. my Honda Accord 8th Generation (2008-2012) makes a knocking noise when I accelerate what's happening

    Learn how to diagnose and fix knocking noise during acceleration in Honda Accord 8th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and rep...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Knocking noise when accelerating
    • •Decreased engine performance
    • +{count} more
  3. how to check if my Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022) has a bad steering rack

    Learn how to diagnose and fix steering rack issues in Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and repair instructio...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive
    • •Unusual noises (clunking or grinding) when turning the steering wheel
    • +{count} more
  4. my Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022) has a weird smell coming from the vents what could it be

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a weird smell from the vents in Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions...

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •Unpleasant odor from the air vents when the HVAC system is on
    • •Possible increase in humidity inside the cabin
    • +{count} more
  5. how to tell if my Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022) torque converter is bad

    Learn how to diagnose and fix torque converter issues in Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
    • •Slipping or delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive
    • +{count} more
  6. my Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022) parking brake won’t release what should I do

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the parking brake issue in Honda Accord 10th Generation (2018-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Parking brake indicator light remains illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Difficulty in shifting from park to drive or reverse
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation