Q: The check engine light always seems to come on when my gas tank is half full. 1998 Honda Accord

asked by on January 02, 2017

My mechanic checked out my car when my gas talk was half full. He cleaned everything and the light went out. When my gas tank became half full, the check engine came on again. I took it to the dealer this time, and he said it could be the timing belt......but seemed unsure. Have you heard of this before?

My car has 68000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello - the first task here is to capture the problem codes turning on the Check Engine light. Most auto parts stores will do this for free - on a time-available basis. It is probably worth checking for problem codes before the Check Engine light comes on as well - transient codes won’t set the CEL, but still indicate a pending problem. Having specific guidance from the engine computer will be very helpful. It seems unlikely that a timing or timing belt issue would cause an intermittent issue like this. I recommend a Check Engine inspection by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you set the clock with a navigation system?
Setting the clock on a car with a navigation system is just as simple as one without the nav system. It might actually be a little easier. Here’s what you need to do: Press the setting button. Choose clock. Choose...
How do I use the windshield wiper mist feature in a 2012 Chevrolet Equinox?
The windshield wiper mist feature is perfect for when there’s a one-time occurrence of moisture on your windshield. To use the mist feature, locate the windshield wiper lever that protrudes from the right side of your steering column. Pull the...
Car runs rough
The typical cause for many vehicles to start running rough is an out of tune ignition system. spark plugs are wear items that need to be maintained. The spark plugs receive the ignition spark from the coil pack which is...
No power at all
Check the voltage at the battery terminals for 12 volts at rest. While cranking the voltage shouldn't drop very much, about 10 volts. Jump the vehicle and observe the voltage while it's running. If the voltage isn't above 13.5 volts,...
Car won't start after alarm went off, 2001 Hyundai XG300
Hello there, this is a rare issue on the Hyundai XG300. The most likely causes would be a security control module, wiring fault, or a shorted wire. Any of these could cause the security system to engage while driving like...
when starting the car once you press the gas pedal it does not respond right away .Also happened on the highway
Hello. I usually start by checking the computer for codes. I also use the scan tool to see what the sensor are reading. Most of the time this is caused by an airflow sensor that is not reading right or...
Car won't go forward and is leaking - 1992 Mercedes Benz 300TE
Hey there. If the line is broken, then it has to be replaced. The line is a special transmission cooler line. You may need to use dealer supplied parts for this repair only. The transmission should not be tried to...
When I go to use fix-a-flat I can hear my tire deflating more
First of all, fix-a-flat is to be used as a backup to using a good spare tire (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-do-spare-tires-last). If you add the fix-a-flat to a leaking tire, you should follow the directions on the can to add the liquid to...
Idle high at start up then drops down slowly
Hi there. Typically when an engine starts up for the first time, the engine's RPM speed will be increased slightly to allow the motor and other operating systems to warm up to operating temperature sooner. In some cases, a vacuum...

Related articles

P2649 OBD-II Trouble Code: ‘A’ Rocker Arm Actuator Control Circuit High Bank 1
P2649 P2649 code definition ‘A’ Rocker Arm Actuator Control Circuit High Bank 1 What the P2649 code mean P2649 is an OBD-II code for the engine control module (ECM) detecting the ‘A’ rocker arm actuator control circuit for bank 1...
What Does the Service Required Warning Light Mean?
The service required warning light reminds you when it's time to perform some maintenance for your car, usually an oil and filter change.
B1999 OBD-II Trouble Code: Passenger Side Side-Mount Air Bag Low Resistance on Squib
B1999 trouble code means there's a circuit malfunction in the passenger side-mount air bag inflator, caused by blown fuses or shorted wires.