Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1987 Honda Prelude Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Code 4, TDC/Crank Sensor
- Turn ignition off. Remove clock fuse in the under-hood relay box for 10 seconds to reset ECU. Start engine and observe PGM-FI warning light. If light is off, problem is intermittent. Test drive and check again.
- If light is on, turn ignition off. Disconnect TDC/CRANK sensor connector nearest the sensor. Measure resistance across terminals "C" and "D" at sensor. If reading is not 700-1000 ohms, replace distributor assembly. If reading is within specification, proceed to next step.
- Check continuity between ground and sensor terminals "C" and "D". If continuity exists, sensor is shorted to ground. Replace distributor assembly. If no continuity exists, proceed to next step.
- Reconnect sensor connector. Attach system checker harness to main harness only, not to ECU. Check resistance between connector terminals B10 and B12. Resistance should be 700-1000 ohms.
- If resistance is not within specification, repair open in Blue/Yellow and/or Blue/Green wire. If resistance is within specification, substitute a known good ECU. If condition is rectified, replace original ECU.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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