Dirty Oil Cause of Honda Civic Performance Loss
Vehicle: 2005 Honda Civic Si, L4-2.0L, Manual Transmission/Transaxle
Mileage: 137,406 miles
Problem: The customer was concerned when the car reached 4,000 RPM and the engine cut off. The problem was easily repeatable. The malfunction indicator light (MIL) was off.
Case Details: The technician called ALLDATA Tech-Assist for some help with the diagnosis. The first thing the consultant asked was if the oil had been changed lately or if the oil level was low. Honda’s VTEC engines don't like dirty or low oil levels and will “protest” by not going over 4,000 RPM - about when the VTEC system activates.
Confirmed Repair: The technician checked the oil, and it was about a quart low and very dirty. He installed a new filter and fresh full-synthetic oil. After driving the car for about 30 minutes, the engine started revving past 4,000 RPM. Easy fix!
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