This 2001 Honda Civic came in with a multitude of problems one of which was a code P1298 stored for an ELD fault (electric load detector circuit input high). I had never had to actually test one of these before although I knew that they existed. The ELD sends a signal to the engine control computer so that the computer can adjust the alternator output in relation to power consumption. The ELD is located in the underhood fuse box. I am pointing to it with my screw driver.
To test the ELD I had to lift the underhood fuse box and remove the bottom cover. Once removed I could access the wiring for the ELD. The wire on the far right of the connector is power supply (battery voltage).
The wire in the middle of the connector is battery ground.
The wire on the far left of the connector is a five volt signal sent from the computer. The ELD will pull the voltage lower with increased system load and should vary with a change in load. For example if the blower or headlights are turned on it should drop. This particular unit was stuck at 3.81 volts and would not change with no loads or full loads applied. If the voltage had been near zero I would have had to unplug the connector and see if the five volt reference signal was being sent by the computer and wiring.
After testing and finding a faulty ELD, it was very easy to change. I removed the four adjoining phillips headed screws that held the two PAL fuses in place.
I released the latch on the harness connector and unplugged the connector.
With the wiring removed I simply lifted the unit. Slid the bar out and installed the new unit.
Below are a couple of pictures of the actual ELD part from Honda.
The two codes are most likely not related to each other. The P1298 code is for the ELD as it relates to the charging system. The P1167 code is for a fault in the A/F ratio sensor heater element. As long as your running voltage is in the correct range (between 12.75 and 14.5 volts), neither code will cause the performance issues that you mentioned. Also a restricted/dirty air filter will not cause a surge. It could cause a lack of power and stalling if it is extremely dirty.
Hello Sparky,
I have an 02 rsx
codes p1298 along with p1167
What do you think this combo could mean?
I was thinking maybe the air filter being plugged could cause the p1167 because I should have changed it a loooong time ago.. woops 🙁
Also the car was surging when I’d be driving.. like it felt like It was accelerating by itself.. I think surging is the right word?
And that could be caused by a plugged air filter right?
But then I am confused as to why the p1298?
They must be connected right?
I should have learned my lesson by now in calling car dealerships.. they are very unhelpful won’t tell you anything, always “you have to bring your car in so we can diagnose it” well yeah, and pay them tons of money of course.
Also I think because I’m a girl they assume I don’t know anything and it makes me mad!
Urrrg!
🙂
I am wondering what you’re expert opinion is!!
Thanks so much in advance!! I really appreciate any help with figuring this out.
P0133 is for a slow response from the B1S1 oxygen or air/fuel ratio sensor. Usually just the sensor needs to be replaced. Honda or Denso brand for best results. The P1456 is for an evap leak condition. Honda used to sell a kit that had the hoses and solenoids in it. Of course check the obvious like the gas cap.
Hi Sparky, I found this thread searching for answers to my own problem and I think its great how you are helping everyone out.. Im wondering if you have and info for what my problem could be. 2001 civic ex with codes p0133, p1456 and the p1298 which lead me here. The ses light came on once a few months ago but went away before I was able to check it. Not sure if they are related but came back on last week with these codes. I havent checked the ELD yet but will tonight or tomorrow. would you know anything about the other codes? Thanks so much for any info
You will need to find the problem with the PCM not communicating first. From the general description, I would suspect a faulty ground or power supply to the DLC and/or the PCM.