2007 Honda S2000 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2007 Honda S2000: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2007 Honda S2000 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 2007 Honda S2000 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 initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2007 Honda S2000?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2007 Honda S2000, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe the dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, which may indicate more serious problems. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the underlying issue. After that, inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage, as faulty plugs can lead to engine performance issues. Additionally, ensure that the air filter is clean, as a clogged filter can also cause the check engine light to activate. Finally, check all essential fluid levels, including oil and coolant, since low levels can contribute to engine problems. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose the cause of the check engine light and determine whether further professional assistance is needed.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2007 Honda S2000?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2007 Honda S2000, it serves as a crucial alert for drivers, especially those inclined towards DIY repairs. Understanding the common problems that can trigger this warning light is essential for effective troubleshooting. A loose gas cap is often the simplest issue to address; ensuring it is securely fastened can sometimes resolve the problem immediately. More complex issues may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, necessitating replacement. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, spark plugs, or ignition coils can significantly affect engine performance and may require more extensive diagnostic work. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to further complications. Other potential culprits include a faulty EGR valve, thermostat malfunctions, vacuum leaks, and engine misfires, all of which can illuminate the check engine light. While some of these issues can be tackled with basic tools and knowledge, others may require professional expertise for accurate diagnosis and repair. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can be particularly beneficial, as it allows you to retrieve error codes that provide insights into the specific problems affecting your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for guidance and safety precautions when attempting repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2007 Honda S2000?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2007 Honda S2000 is of utmost importance due to the potential risks associated with ignoring it. When this warning light illuminates, it signals that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected an issue that could escalate into more serious problems if left unaddressed. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to pull over safely and inspect the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable cause of the light. However, if the light remains on after securing the gas cap, it is crucial to conduct further diagnostics. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to significant engine damage or emissions system failures, which not only affect vehicle performance but can also result in costly repairs. Therefore, taking immediate action not only helps in diagnosing the problem but also ensures the longevity and reliability of your Honda S2000.

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2007 Honda S2000 Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions