Lux Motors Zim

19/06/2026

19/05/2026

HONDA FIT, HONDA VESSEL FAULT CODES P1351, P1352


Fault codes P1351 and P1352 in Honda Fit GP1, Honda Fit Hybrid, and Honda Vezel typically indicate ignition coil circuit malfunctions, often linked to high voltage or wiring issues. These errors can cause misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting, and they usually require inspection of ignition coils, wiring, and the ECM/PCM.
What P1351 and P1352 Mean
• P1351: Ignition Coil Control Circuit High Voltage (commonly affecting cylinders 1 and 4).
• P1352: Ignition Coil Circuit Malfunction (often linked to cylinders 2 and 3).
• These codes are part of the OBD-II diagnostic system, which alerts when ignition timing or coil voltage is outside normal range.

Common Symptoms
• Engine misfires or rough idling
• Check engine light illumination
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Loss of power or sluggish acceleration
• Hard starting or stalling.


Causes
• Faulty ignition coils (most common)
• Damaged wiring or corroded connectors
• Poor electrical connections in ignition system
• Crankshaft position sensor issues
• Defective ECM/PCM (rare but possible)

Diagnosis & Fix
1. Scan with OBD-II tool to confirm codes.
2. Inspect ignition coils: swap coils between cylinders to see if fault follows.
3. Check wiring & connectors for continuity and corrosion.
4. Test ignition control module with a multimeter.
5. Replace faulty coils or ICM if necessary.
6. Clear codes and test drive to confirm resolution.
If your Honda Fit GP1, Hybrid, or Vezel shows P1351 or P1352, start by checking the ignition coils and wiring. These are the most common culprits and relatively inexpensive to fix compared to PCM replacement. Addressing the issue early prevents costly engine damage and ensures smooth performance.
In addition, Honda Fit, trouble codes P1351 and P1352 can appear alongside a blown head gasket, but the codes themselves usually point first to an ignition or cylinder-specific combustion issue rather than directly identifying the head gasket.
Written by: L CHITOKOMERE (Automotive Lecturer, Certified Technician and an Award winning CEO of Lux Motors)

13/05/2026

THE NOTORIOUS FAULTY CODE P0745
In Zimbabwe, Nissan owners frequently encounter the notorious P0745 fault code, which
signals a failure in the transmission’s line pressure solenoid valve. This issue often leads to
harsh shifting, slipping gears, and overheating, and has become a common headache for local
drivers due to limited access to specialized transmission repair services.
What P0745 Means?
 Definition: P0745 indicates a Line Pressure Solenoid Valve Fault in Nissan
vehicles.
 Function: The solenoid regulates transmission fluid pressure, ensuring smooth gear
changes.
 Impact: When faulty, the transmission struggles to maintain proper fluid pressure,
causing performance issues.
Common Symptoms in Zimbabwean Nissans
 Harsh shifting – noticeable jerks when changing gears.
 Slipping gears – vehicle fails to stay in gear under load.
 Delayed engagement – hesitation before the car moves after shifting.
 Transmission overheating – especially problematic in Zimbabwe’s hot climate.
 Check Engine Light – often the first warning sign.
Causes of P0745
 Low transmission fluid – common in older vehicles with leaks.
 Dirty or contaminated fluid – dust and debris from Zimbabwe’s roads accelerate
contamination.
 Faulty solenoid valve – mechanical wear or electrical failure.
 Wiring/connectors issues – corrosion or poor connections in humid conditions.
Repair Costs & Local Context
 Global estimate: $200–$600 (parts + labour).
 Zimbabwe reality: Costs vary widely due to scarcity of genuine Nissan parts.
o Imported solenoids can push repairs above USD $700.
o Local workshops may attempt fluid flushes or wiring repairs first, which are
cheaper but often temporary.
 Risk: If debris is found in the transmission pan, a full rebuild may be required, which
is costly and time-consumingPractical Advice for Zimbabwean Drivers
 Check fluid regularly – top up or replace if dirty.
 Seek diagnostic scanning – many garages in Harare and Bulawayo now offer OBDII
scanning.
 Avoid prolonged driving – continued use can cause irreversible transmission
damage.
 Source parts early – delays in importing solenoids can leave cars grounded for
weeks.
Risks & Challenges
 Scarcity of parts: Genuine Nissan solenoids are hard to find locally.
 Counterfeit risk: Cheap aftermarket solenoids often fail quickly.
 Economic strain: Repair costs are high relative to average incomes, making
preventive maintenance crucial.
Conclusion
The P0745 code has become a notorious issue for Nissan owners in Zimbabwe, especially in
models like the Altima, Sentra, and Maxima. Drivers should prioritize fluid maintenance,
early diagnostics, and sourcing reliable parts to avoid costly rebuilds.
Written by: L Chitokomere (Certified Technician, Automotive Lecturer, CEO of Lux Motors

12/05/2026

Understanding the P0171 Error Code in
Toyota Runx, Vitz, Bubble Shape, and
Other Toyota Models in Zimbabwe
If you drive a Toyota in Zimbabwe whether it’s a Toyota Runx, Toyota Vitz, “Bubble Shape” Corolla, IST, Premio, Axio, or Fielder you may have seen the P0171 engine error code
appear on your dashboard scanner. This is one of the most common Toyota fault codes, especially in vehicles imported from Japan and driven under local conditions. But what does P0171 really mean, what causes it, and how can Zimbabwean drivers fix it
without wasting money?
What Does P0171 Mean?
The P0171 code means:
System Too Lean (Bank 1)
In simple terms, your engine is getting too much air and not enough fuel. The air to fuel
mixture becomes “lean,” causing the engine computer (ECU) to trigger the check engine light. Toyota vehicles are very sensitive to fuel and airflow balance, so even small issues can
trigger this code. Common Toyota Models Affected in Zimbabwe
The P0171 code is very common in:  Toyota RunX
 Toyota Vitz
 Toyota Corolla
 Toyota IST
 Toyota Premio
 Toyota Axio
 Toyota Fielder
Many of these vehicles use Toyota engines such as the 1NZ-FE, 2NZ-FE, 4ZZ-FE, and
1ZZ-FE, which are common in Zimbabwe. Symptoms of a P0171 Fault
Drivers usually notice:  Check engine light ON
 Poor fuel economy
 Rough idling
 Engine hesitation
 Loss of power when accelerating
 Difficult starting
 Engine shaking at idle
In some cases, the car may still drive normally while consuming more fuel than usual. Main Causes of P0171 in Toyota Vehicles
1. Dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
This is the number one cause in many Toyota vehicles. Dusty Zimbabwean roads can cause dirt build up on the MAF sensor, especially in cities like
Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, and mining areas. A dirty MAF sensor sends incorrect airflow readings to the ECU, resulting in a lean mixture. 2. Vacuum Leaks
Cracked pipes or loose hoses allow extra air into the engine. Common leak points include:  Intake manifold hoses
 Brake booster hose
 PCV valve hose
 Air intake pipes
3. Weak Fuel Pump
If the fuel pump is weak, the engine does not receive enough fuel pressure. This is common in vehicles that frequently run on low fuel or use contaminated fuel. 4. Blocked Fuel Injectors
Dirty injectors reduce fuel delivery to the engine. Zimbabwe’s fuel quality can sometimes contribute to injector deposits over time. 5. Faulty Oxygen (O2) Sensor
The oxygen sensor monitors exhaust gases and adjusts fuel mixture. When faulty, it may incorrectly report a lean condition. 6. Dirty Air Filter
A heavily clogged air filter can affect airflow readings and engine performance. How to Diagnose P0171 Properly
Before replacing parts, proper diagnosis is important. A qualified mechanic should:
1. Scan live engine data
2. Inspect vacuum leaks
3. Clean the MAF sensor
4. Check fuel pressure
5. Test oxygen sensors
6. Inspect injectors
Replacing parts without diagnosis can become expensive. Simple Fixes That Often Work
Clean the MAF Sensor
Use proper MAF cleaner spray never use water or carb cleaner. In many Toyota RunX and Vitz models, cleaning the MAF sensor solves the issue
immediately. Replace Damaged Hoses
Small vacuum leaks can trigger the code even if the engine sounds normal. Service the Fuel System
Fuel injector cleaning and fuel filter replacement can improve fuel delivery. Reset the ECU
After repairs, clear the fault code using a diagnostic scanner. Preventing P0171 in Zimbabwe
To reduce chances of recurring problems:  Service your Toyota regularly
 Replace air filters on time
 Avoid low-quality fuel  Clean the throttle body and MAF sensor periodically
 Fix vacuum leaks early
 Avoid driving constantly on reserve fuel
Final Thoughts
The P0171 code is common but usually fixable. In many Toyota vehicles in Zimbabwe, the
problem is caused by dirty sensors, vacuum leaks, or fuel delivery issues rather than serious
engine damage. If your Toyota Runx, Vitz, Bubble Shape Corolla, or Premio shows the P0171 code, do not
panic. A proper diagnosis by a skilled technician can save you time and money. Regular servicing and good maintenance habits will keep your Toyota reliable on
Zimbabwe’s roads for many years. Written by Mr L Chitokomere, [Certified Technician, Automotive Lecturer and Award
winning CEO of Lux Motors]

11/05/2026

Lux Motors is commended for winning national excellence awards, reaffirming its commitment to vehicle repair and diagnostics.

05/03/2026

Distance is the key factor, not pace.

18/02/2026

Pamukwidza panonoda dzinodhodza ....

04/09/2025

P0093,P0093 faulty codes denote a fuel leak detected - large leak possible causes encompass malfunctioning fuel injectors, fuel system leaks. 🚨💧🔧