AutoCodes – Honda – P1890 1998 Honda Civic

P1890 1998 Honda Civic Code - Shift Control System

Quick Answer

The P1890 Honda code refers to a shift control system malfunction in the vehicle. Common causes include Faulty Transmission Valve Body, Transmission Valve Body harness is open or shorted, Transmission Valve Body circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1890 1998 Honda Civic indicates Shift Control System.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Transmission Valve Body, Transmission Valve Body harness is open or shorted, Transmission Valve Body circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 3,919

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Oct 02, 2025

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1890 1998 Honda Civic Description

The P1890 Honda code refers to a shift control system malfunction in the vehicle. This code is specifically related to the transmission system and indicates that there is an issue with the shift control mechanism. The shift control system is responsible for managing the shifting of gears in the transmission, ensuring smooth and accurate transitions between gears while driving. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to various performance issues and potentially cause long-term damage if not addressed promptly.

OBDII Code P1890 1998 Honda Civic - Shift Control System - AutoCodes.com — P1890 1998 Honda Civic Code - Shift Control System

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1890 1998 Honda Civic?

Faulty Transmission Valve Body
Transmission Valve Body harness is open or shorted
Transmission Valve Body circuit poor electrical connection
Transmission mechanical problems

How to Fix the DTC P1890 1998 Honda Civic?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1890 1998 Honda Civic code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1890 1998 Honda Civic code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1890 1998 Honda Civic code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1890 1998 Honda Civic Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Common symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, harsh shifting, and the transmission staying in one gear.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P1890 to appear in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- The code can be triggered by issues with the shift control system, such as a faulty shift control solenoid or a malfunctioning transmission range sensor.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P1890 in my 1998 Honda Civic?

- Diagnosis typically involves using a scan tool to retrieve the trouble code and then inspecting the shift control solenoid, transmission range sensor, and related wiring for any damage or malfunctions.

4. Can I continue driving my 1998 Honda Civic with the OBDII code P1890 present?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to further damage to the transmission and potentially cause safety issues.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Repair tips include checking and replacing the shift control solenoid, inspecting and replacing the transmission range sensor, and ensuring all wiring connections are secure.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic without making repairs?

- While clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, the underlying issue causing the code will persist and likely trigger the code again.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the code, but it may range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to diagnose and repair the issue related to the code. However, transmission repairs can be complex and may require professional assistance.

9. Will OBDII code P1890 cause the transmission to fail in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- If left unresolved, the issues related to this code can lead to transmission failure over time, so it's crucial to address the underlying problem promptly.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1890 in a 1998 Honda Civic?

- The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the code and the extent of the necessary repairs, but it may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day at a repair shop.