The check engine light comes on on my dash. When my mechanic does a "Freeze-frame" with the scanning tool, it shows a "rich" reading and that the rpm was extremely low (160) at the time of the freeze frame. He thinks that the rich reading is in response to the low rpm reading. He has checked the distributer and electrical connections and all seem good. The exterior of the computer does seem to have some indications of dampness but the inside looks fine.

This began happening just after I went through a long period of the car losing power (mostly around 55 mph) and then surging forward again. My mechanic replaced the fuel injectors, and then the front and rear O2 sensors, as well as Catalytic converter.

Any thoughts?

 

That doesn't make any sense. If truly at 160 rpm the engine will shake badly and stall. So I wouldn't count on anything about the "freeze frame" test. If other codes indicate running rich, the fuel pressure should be checked. Does it still lose power and "surge forward" or has that been resolved?

 

I am always concerned about a mechanic who replaces parts at random. I would find a new mechanic. What year and trim Civic? What specific CEL codes are thrown?

 

My understanding is that he had checked the distributor, sensors, computer, and wiring because the low rpm reading didn't make sense - unless there was a very momentary disconnection. I also don't think that he was replacing parts at random but based upon previous codes and diagnostic info that he had. I don't know the specific codes. I do wonder at this point if the codes were incorrect due to a problem with the computer.

 

Also, the engine doesn't lose power any more, that has been resolved; and the fuel pressure was checked and is ok.

 

Sorry; I forgot to mention that it's a 98 Civic LX 5-speed manual. I'm pretty sure that the code is for a rich fuel mixture.

 

Sorry; I forgot to mention that it's a 98 Civic LX 5-speed manual. I'm pretty sure that the code is for a rich fuel mixture.