So my check engine light has come on again... this time it's a P1399 which is a "Wait to start Lamp" to my knowledge that's a diesel engine thing... Is anyone else having, or heard of that problem? Also I'm goin through oil at an alarming rate.. (burning, not leaking, unfortunately) Any suggestions? Money's tight, is there a "quick cheap fix" (other than a new engine, or a new car all together?)

 

P1399 is not a CEL code listed in the 96-98 Civic service manual.

See what code is retrieve using this method:

http://www.honda-tech.com/zerothread/1901557

The way your engine is burning oil suggests that an engine replacement may be in order.

 

I had it scanned at Partsource, it came back with a random misfire, a misfire cyl. 1, misfire cyl. 2, and the P1399.

 

For the misfire, check whether the plugs are fouled and whether the distributor rotor and cap show signs of wear and corrosion. If plugs are fouled, you also may want to change the plug wires.

Pull the CEL codes with the method described in the link to determine whether the unusual P1399 code is replaced by an interpretable code. Clear the ECU and see whether the same codes reappear. Troubleshoot only those codes that repeat.

 

cool, thanks, will do.