Emission monitors (such as the one in question: Catalyst Monitor) requires specific operating conditions before the monitor test is initiated. In most cases, the monitors should run during normal vehicle operation. However, due to different driving habits, the criteria required to run a monitor may not always be met. By following the Honda Civic drive cycle below all emission monitors will run. The drive cycle must be followed accurately. Take extra caution when performing the drive cycle on public roadways. Perform the drive cycle at your own risk. If you feel you might not be able to perform the drive cycle safely, or obey all traffic laws, seek the assistance of a smog check repair station which will be able to perform the drive cycle on a dynomometer and be utilizing specialized OBD II drive cycle readiness tools/scanner/computer.
How to Complete 2008-2014 Honda Civic Drive Cycle
A. COLD START: Begin from Cold Start, and ignition in OFF position for at least 1 hour. Ensure your Honda Civic's fuel tank is between 1/4 and 3/4 full and engine coolant temperature is below 122°F and within 11°F of the ambient air temperature. Do not leave the key on prior to the cold start.
B. IDLE TIME: Start the engine (do not drive) and allow to idle for 2 1/2 minutes with the air conditioner on and rear defroster on. During this period the ECU will be running the Oxygen Sensor Heater self-test, Air Injection System Passive Air test, EVAP Purge "No Flow" test, Misfire Detection.
C. DRIVE: Turn off the air conditioner and rear defroster and begin driving. When possible, speed up to 55 mph. The ECU will now run self-tests on the Misfire Detection, Fuel Trim, and EVAP Purge Flow.
D. HOLD STEADY: Keep vehicle speed steady at 55 mph for three (3) minutes. During this time the Oxygen Sensor O2 response, Air Intrusive (AIS System), EGR Flow, Purge Valve, Misfire Detection, and Fuel Trim diagnostics will be performed.
E. DECELERATE: Slowly let off the accelerator pedal. Do not brake or shift in order to slow down. It is important to let your Civic coast gradually, slowing down to 20 mph. The ECU will once again self-test the EGR System, EVAP Purge System and Long Term Fuel Trims.
F. ACCELERATE: Accelerate, using 3/4 throttle, until 55-60 mph is reached. This will perform the same self tests as during the first acceleration step C.
G. HOLD STEADY: Hold steady speed once again. This time at 55mph for five minutes. During this time, in addition to running the self-tests as during the first HOLD STEADY step, the ECU will perform the catalyst monitor diagnostics. If the catalyst (Catalytic Converter) is marginal or the battery has been disconnected, it may take 5 complete driving cycles to determine the state of the catalyst,or in order to Complete the CAT Monitor.
H. DECELERATE: This will perform the same diagnostics as in Step E. Remember not to depress the brakes or shift gears during deceleration.
This should complete the drive cycle on your Honda Civic. To ensure all monitors are complete use a scan tool. We recommend completing this drive cycle twice in case in any step timing or speed was not achieved.
