PGM-FI System

DTC Troubleshooting (cont'd)

11-528  

DTC 21: VTEC System Malfunction

Special Tools Required

  • Oil pressure gauge attachment 07NAJ-P070100
  • Low pressure gauge 07406-0070001
  • Hose oil pressure 07ZAJ-S5A0200
  1. Reset the ECM/PCM (see page 11-468).
  2. Check the engine oil level, and refill if necessary.
  3. Start the engine. Hold the engine at 3.000 rpm with no load (in Park or neutral) until the radiator fan comes on.
  4. Road test the vehicle:
    Accelerate in M/T, A/T: 2nd gear to an engine speed over 4,000 rpm (min-1). Hold that engine speed for at least 2 seconds. If DTC 21 is not repeated during the first road test, repeat this test 2 more times.

Is the MIL on and does it indicated DTC 21?

YES

- Go to step 5.

NO

- Intermittent failure, system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose wires at the VTEC solenoid valve and at the ECM/PCM.


  1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  2. Remove the resonator (see page 11-448).

  1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  1. Disconnect the VTEC solenoid valve 1P connector.
  2. Check for resistance between the VTEC solenoid valve 1P connector terminal No. 1 and body ground.

VTEC SOLENOID VALVE CONNECTOR

Terminal side of male terminals

Is there 14-30 ohms?

YES

- Go to step 10.

NO

- Replace the VTEC solenoid valve.


  1. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (24P).
  2. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B15 and body ground.

ECM/PCM CONNECTOR B (24P)

Wire side of female terminals

Is there continuity?

YES

- Repair short in the wire between the VTEC solenoid valve and the ECM/PCM (B15).

NO

- Go to step 12.