sdraza1

My Honda engines doesn't shut down when I turn off the ignition switch, dealer said he would charge $110 for the diagnostic test. I am thinking of buying a computer to diagnose the fault perhaps called Onboard Diagnostic system. I saw one on amazon Actron CP9550 OBD-II PocketScan Plus Diagnostic Code Reader, Is it ok to buy or are there some better available in market. thanks

ezone

You didn't bother to answer my reply to your other post.

That might be cheap.

I'm pretty sure this isn't going to help you figure out that problem.



Of course there are better available.
You get what you pay for.

I use the HDS program. (Honda dealer level scanner.)

sdraza1

Sorry I didn't understand what do you mean by 'You didn't bother to answer my reply to your other post.' Perhaps you are trying to say I shouldn't buy any such thing which can diagnose problem in the car? What is HDS program?

ezone

Do you seriously not recall making another post?
https://www.civicforums.com/forums/1...ml#post4636665

I'm saying that a code reader probably isn't going to be of any help for this problem you described. Feel free to check it out though.
Many parts stores will read your codes for free.

There is no magic box that can diagnose a car. It is only a tool.

Already answered in that post:

sdraza1

Sorry I forgot, my car has a remote starter installed by a 3rd party. It was long time ago and I was not sure whether it was installed by Honda or by a 3rd party. So it can be a ignition switch or remote starter problem. My mechanic said keep on driving it and if engine doesn't turn of at some occasion, loosen one of two main screws under a black cover just besides battery and tighten them when u need to restart the car. and if the problem occurs again, bring the car to me (mechanic said). Finally is it worth buying such a diagnostic tool for car problems (not specifically for current problem but for future potential problems)? thanks for all the help

ezone

Does your remote start fob look like this?


This is a factory (accessory) fob.
If you don't have this, your system is considered "aftermarket", no matter who installed it.
If you think your dealer installed it (some do that), see what their warranty is on the system.

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To try to solve the problem:

Disable the remote start system. (Unplug the large wiring harnesses from the control unit.)

Drive it for several days to make sure the problem is no longer present.

If problem is gone, then that means the remote start system is the most likely cause of your problem.
Probably a stuck ignition power relay (randomly intermittent fault).


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Having your own code reader can be handy if you have an issue that it can help with.
What it can do is limited though.

A logical approach to a problem such as this goes much farther than any code reader can.


HTH

sdraza1

No my remote starter fob is totally different. I will try to do what you have told me and thanks again for such a great help. What is control unit by the way.