2017 Honda Accord Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2017 Honda Accord

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Honda Accord has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Honda Accord has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2017 Honda Accord?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2017 Honda Accord, start with the simplest solutions. Begin by inspecting the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's OBD port, allowing you to retrieve the specific error code that has activated the light. This code is crucial as it directs you to the potential issue. After obtaining the code, research its meaning using a diagnostic code reader manual or online resources to identify the affected system or component. Common culprits include the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, spark plugs, and mass airflow sensor, so visually inspect these parts for any signs of wear or malfunction. If these steps do not resolve the issue or if the error code indicates a more complex problem, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Honda Accord?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Honda Accord, it signals that something may be amiss under the hood, and understanding the common problems can empower DIY enthusiasts to take action. A loose gas cap is often the simplest issue to check; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the warning light. More complex issues may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which is vital for managing emissions and fuel efficiency, or problems with the catalytic converter that can affect overall engine performance. Additionally, spark plug or ignition coil failures can lead to misfires, triggering the light as well. The mass airflow sensor, responsible for measuring air intake, can also malfunction, causing the engine to run inefficiently. Lastly, don’t forget about the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system; a clogged EGR valve can contribute to the check engine light coming on. By being aware of these common issues, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and address problems, ensuring their Honda Accord runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Honda Accord?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Honda Accord, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could escalate if left unaddressed. While some triggers, like a loose gas cap, may seem trivial, others could signify more serious problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potential engine damage, which can result in costly repairs down the line. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can help identify the specific issue. However, if the codes indicate a more complex problem, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that the necessary repairs are made promptly. By taking action as soon as the check engine light comes on, you can maintain the health of your Honda Accord and avoid more significant issues in the future.

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