2017 Honda Clarity Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Honda Clarity and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 Clarity 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 Clarity 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.

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 initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2017 Honda Clarity?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Honda Clarity, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as a loose or damaged gas cap, which is a common culprit for triggering the light. If everything appears normal, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, a handy tool that connects to your car's diagnostic port. This device will retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing valuable insights into the underlying issues. Once you have the error codes, take the time to research them, either through the vehicle's manual or online resources, to understand what they signify. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the problem but also empowers you to make informed decisions about any necessary repairs, ensuring a more efficient and effective DIY diagnostic process.

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

When the check engine light comes on in your 2017 Honda Clarity, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is tightened properly. If that’s not the issue, consider the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency and emissions; a faulty sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the light to illuminate, often indicating a failure that may require replacement. Spark plugs are another critical component; worn or faulty plugs can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance, so checking their condition is advisable. The mass airflow sensor is also essential for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any issues here can trigger the check engine light as well. Lastly, don’t overlook the ignition coils, as malfunctioning coils can cause misfiring and illuminate the warning light. By systematically checking these components, you can identify and potentially resolve the issue before it escalates, ensuring your Honda Clarity runs smoothly.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Honda Clarity, it is crucial to act swiftly to prevent further complications. This warning signal is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate into more serious problems if left unchecked. Ignoring this light can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even 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 provide insight into the specific issue at hand. Understanding these codes can help you determine whether the problem is something you can address yourself or if it requires professional intervention. By taking immediate action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also enhance your safety on the road, making it essential to prioritize the check engine light as soon as it appears.

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