Malfunction Indicator Lamp - Honda 2008 Element Owner's Manual

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If this indicator comes on
while driving, it means one
of the engine's emissions control
systems may have a problem. Even
though you may feel no difference in
your vehicle's performance, it can
reduce your fuel economy and cause
increased emissions. Continued
operation may cause serious damage.
If you have recently refueled your
vehicle, the indicator coming on
could be due to a loose or missing
fuel fill cap. You will also see a
''CHECK FUEL CAP'' message on
the information display. Tighten the
cap until it clicks at least once.
Tightening the cap will not turn the
indicator off immediately; it can take
several days of normal driving.
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If the indicator comes on repeatedly,
even though it may turn off as you
continue driving, have your vehicle
checked by your dealer as soon as
possible.
If you keep driving with the
malf unction indicator lamp on, you can
damage your vehicle's emissions
controls and engine. Those repairs may
not be covered by your vehicle's
warranties.
If your vehicle has an automatic
transmission, the malfunction
indicator lamp may also come on
with the ''D'' indicator.
Readiness Codes
Your vehicle has certain ''readiness
codes'' that are part of the on-board
diagnostics for the emissions
systems. In some states, part of the
emissions testing is to make sure
2008 Element
these codes are set. If they are not
set, the test cannot be completed.
If the battery in your vehicle has
been disconnected or gone dead,
these codes are erased. It takes at
least three days of driving under
various conditions to set the codes
again.
To check if they are set, turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position, without starting the engine.
The malfunction indicator lamp will
come on for 20 seconds. If it then
goes off, the readiness codes are set.
If it blinks five times, the readiness
codes are not set. If possible, do not
take your vehicle for a state
emissions test until the readiness
codes are set. Refer to Emissions
Testing for more information (see
page 259 ).