Malfunction Indicator Lamp - Honda RDX Owner's Manual

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

If the 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. 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.
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.
382
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.
The indicator may also come on with
the ''D'' indicator.
You will also see a ''CHECK
EMISSION SYSTEM'' message on
the multi-information display (see
page 77 ).
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
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 may be erased. It can
take several 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 an emissions
test until the readiness codes are set.
Refer to Emissions Testing
more information (see page 406
for
).