Shut off while driving on the freeway?

SBIXLER

MEMBER
1992 HONDA ACCORD
1.8L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
230,000 MILES

I noticed RPM needle was jumping around. Coasted off the freeway, check engine light came on when I tried to start again. Wouldn’t start, got it towed home. Off the truck, started, no engine light, but noticeable exhaust leak. Starts every time, exhaust leak. No problem whatsoever before this happened. Thank you in advance.

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

Hi,

If the tachometer was jumping around, it sounds electrical. Have you checked to make sure the primary ground between the battery and the engine is in good condition, tight, and free of corrosion?

Also, here is a link that explains how to retrieve codes from the OBD1 system on this vehicle. Do this and see if anything is stored.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/honda-car-1990-1995-obd1-code-retrieval-procedure-and-definition-table

One other question. Was the exhaust leaking after it happened but not before? Please explain.

Take care,

Joe

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Sunday, June 4th, 2023 AT 10:22 PM

SBIXLER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hey Joe, when I realized the car had lost power, is when the RPM needle was jumping around. The car starts fine now, but there is an exhaust leak. Just not sure where to start troubleshooting, get into the exhaust system? Curious why that would happen.

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Monday, June 5th, 2023 AT 5:39 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

Hi,

Do you know where the exhaust leak is located? For example, is it before or after the catalytic converter?

I ask because if the car lost power and now it runs well but has a leak, the converter may have been the issue (plugged).

Take a look at this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

Let me know

Take care,

joe

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Monday, June 5th, 2023 AT 7:28 PM

SBIXLER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The leak is coming from the exhaust manifold area, haven’t been able to pinpoint exactly. Debating if I should tear into it or take it to a shop.

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Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 AT 5:37 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,269 POSTS

Hi,

The worst part would likely be if you need to remove the manifold. The bolts/nuts are likely rusted and may give you a hard time.

On the other hand, it still doesn't make sense. Do me a favor. Check to see if the oxygen sensor is still on the exhaust. Maybe it came out.

I attached a pic below. There are two possible locations based on the vehicle model. Check to see if it is there.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)