Vehicle: 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid, L4-1.5L, CVT Transmission

Mileage: 106,988

Problem: This vehicle was towed to the shop because the engine died at a stop light then the engine would not crank over.

Details: The technician connected a scan tool but could find no diagnostic trouble codes from any modules. Next, he tried to turn the engine over by hand using a breaker bar and socket on the crankshaft pulley nut. That is when he discovered a strange anomaly. He could rotate the engine counterclockwise, but not clockwise. At this point, he called ALLDATA Tech-Assist.

The consultant suggested removing the spark plugs to make the engine easy to rotate and to remove the serpentine belt to help determine if the any accessories were locked-up and causing the problem.

Confirmed Repair: Sure enough, when the technician removed the serpentine belt the engine would turn in both directions. Upon further inspection, he found the A/C compressor and clutch had seized. The reason the engine could be rotated counterclockwise is because the belt tensioner released tension in the counterclockwise direction. The belt just slipped around compressor pulley. They replaced the compressor assembly, expansion valve and receiver dryer, flushed all the lines, condenser and evaporator then recharged the A/C system. Problem solved!