AutoCodesHonda – P1791 1996 Honda Civic

P1791 1996 Honda Civic Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance Problem

Quick Answer

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is driven by the differential. Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor 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
P1791 1996 Honda Civic indicates Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance Problem.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor, Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted, Vehicle Speed Sensor 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 2,557
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 19, 2019
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Code P1791 1996 Honda Civic Description

The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) is driven by the differential. It generates a pulsed signal from an input 5 volts. The number of pulses per minute increases/decreases with the speed of the vehicle.
OBDII Code P1791 1996 Honda Civic - Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance Problem - AutoCodes.com
P1791 1996 Honda Civic Code - Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance Problem

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1791 1996 Honda Civic?

  • Faulty Vehicle Speed Sensor
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1791 1996 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 P1791 1996 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 P1791 1996 Honda Civic code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1791 1996 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 P1791 1996 Honda Civic Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1791 mean on a 1996 Honda Civic?

P1791 indicates a "Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance Problem," meaning the vehicle's speed sensor signal is outside expected parameters or inconsistent.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P1791 code in a 1996 Honda Civic?

Symptoms may include erratic speedometer readings, transmission shifting issues, poor acceleration, or the Check Engine Light turning on.

3. What causes the P1791 code to appear on a 1996 Honda Civic?

Common causes include a faulty vehicle speed sensor (VSS), damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning ECU, or a sensor misalignment.

4. How do I diagnose the P1791 code on my 1996 Honda Civic?

Start by inspecting the VSS and its wiring for damage or loose connections. Use a multimeter to check the sensor's output and compare it to the manufacturer’s specifications.

5. Can I still drive my 1996 Honda Civic with the P1791 code?

Driving with the P1791 code is possible but not recommended, as it can affect transmission performance and lead to further damage or unsafe driving conditions.

6. How do I fix the P1791 code on a 1996 Honda Civic?

Repairs may include replacing the VSS if it’s faulty, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or recalibrating the ECU if necessary.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P1791 code on a 1996 Honda Civic?

Replacing the vehicle speed sensor typically costs between $100 and $250, including parts and labor, but costs may vary based on location and shop rates.

8. Can a dirty speed sensor cause the P1791 code?

Yes, debris or buildup on the VSS can interfere with its ability to send accurate signals, potentially triggering the P1791 code.

9. Will the P1791 code clear itself after repairs?

The code may clear after repairs if the issue is resolved, but you may need to use an OBDII scanner to reset the Check Engine Light manually.

10. Can a bad ECU cause the P1791 code on a 1996 Honda Civic?

Yes, though rare, a malfunctioning ECU can misinterpret or fail to process signals from the speed sensor, triggering the P1791 code.

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