Tips on Buying Cars: 1999 honda odyssey, honda odyssey, hi mike

Question
Hi

I see you are knowledgeable on general automotive issues. I have a 1999 Honda Odyssey and the check engine, SRS, brake lights all came on. It also just died while driving, but now drives OK. I took it to a mechanic (not dealer) and they connected their diagnostic machine to it and was unable to get any response from the control unit. They feel that the ECM or PCM is or will fail soon. Not really sure what these are but they called it the computer module. Are you aware of this type of issue? What happens if it does fail while I am driving it? I searched my warrantee and it seems that the ECM or PCM is covered under warrantee. Thoughts?
Thanks, Mike

Answer
Hi Mike.
The ECM/PCM is classified under Federal law as part of your emissions system and is therefore covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles on most vehicles.

However, as it generally fails like a light bulb (either works or doesn't), I doubt that this is your problem.  With all of those warning lights coming on at the same time, I'd either suspect low voltage from a failing battery or alternator, a bad ground or a failing ignition switch.

Good luck!