Limp mode loss of power

RICKY1986

MEMBER
2005 HONDA CIVIC
1.7L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
345,000 MILES

When you turn the key on some times the battery light and engine light will flicker back and forth for about 3 seconds apart and 4 or 5 times, when the battery light is on for the 3 seconds. Car has all its power, rpm temperature gauge work also and the green key symbol is off too. When the engine light is on for the next 3 seconds it goes back to limp mode rpm, temperature gauge won’t work and the green key symbol flashes. It does that for about 4 times engine light always wins, not all the time they flicker back and forth. Most of the time the engine light only goes on and stays on. It idles fine it doesn’t shut off.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,254 POSTS

Hi,

That sounds like a voltage-related issue. I need you to perform a simple test. Let's make sure the alternator is doing its job. Follow the directions in the following link. All you will need is a voltmeter or a multimeter. It's easy to do.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Next, if you haven't already, you should have the computer scanned to determine if there are any diagnostic trouble codes stored which could point us in the right direction. Here is a quick video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but most parts stores will do it for you free of charge.

Try these things and let me know the results. If there are codes stored, let me know what they are.

Take care,

Joe