> TWO: Honda had a transaxle computer update for that exact problem on
> that bodystyle Accord; it went into effect in the early to mid 90s. A
> bad computer could cause the S light to turn on for no reason. The
> actual shifting sometimes was effected, other times not.

I had the same problem two years ago on my '91 Accord LX. The S light was
on even though I didn't turn on sport mode. More scary, the car would just
erratically down shift to 2nd gear on the highway, at 65 mph. I took the
car to a Honda dealer. They eventually diagnosed it to be a computer
problem. They told me the computer had to be ordered from Honda and it
would take a few months. Alternatively, I could try to locate one at a junk
yard and bring it to them and they would install it for me. I did just that
(although I could only locate a '90 Accord computer - but it works fine
anyways) and the replacement computer has been working fine since.

- Dave




>
> Who to trust?
> Keep in mind, Honda doesn't owe you a free repair on a 1991 vehicle,
> but I guarantee an independent shop won't offer a fix for free! The
> dealer should be aware of the problem, but they will probably charge
> you to check it out even if you mention that you are aware of the
> computer issue. After all, your car is way out of warrantee. This
> leads me to suggest you go to the dealer. If you can spare the car
> for a few days, let their technician start it every morning until the
> S light acts up for him. Then the tech will know from experience if
> it is a common computer problem or something more involved.
>
> Just keep in mind, if someone tells you you need a trans overhaul, get
> a second opinion!