P1298 on 1994-1999 Acura Integra (LS, GS, RS, Special Edition) — Injector Driver Module (IDM) Failure / Electrical Load Detector Fault (manufacturer-specific)
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $150-$3,500 repair
How to diagnose and fix P1298: most-reported vehicles
Ranked by owner reports. Each card gives the symptoms, how to confirm the cause, the fix, parts and sources for that vehicle.
Acura Integra · 1994–1999
The Honda MP7A/SP7A/S4XA 4-speed automatic in the Integra is notoriously sensitive to fluid condition and shift-solenoid contamination. Solenoid A/B failure causes flashing D4 light, harsh or missed 2-3/3-4 shifts, loss of power in D4/D3, and sometimes speedometer drop-out. Shifting problems can also stem from a clogged transmission filter or screen restricting fluid flow, which lowers hydraulic pressure and leads to missed 4th-gear shifts and failure to downshift. In one owner report, the car suddenly lost almost all power in D4, would not shift, and the speedometer stopped working; the codes returned were Automatic Transaxle FI A circuit failure and ELD error.
Common Symptoms
- flashing D4 indicator
- harsh 2-3 shift
- no 4th gear
- loss of power in D4/D3
- speedometer intermittent
- shift hold in gear
How to Fix
Drain-and-fill with Honda ATF-Z1/DW-1 (never use generic Dexron — it will destroy the clutches). Change the fluid every 3 years/36,000 miles; it breaks down with heat and wear just like engine oil. Pull codes with a Honda jumper or scan tool; the lock-up and shift solenoids are external, three-bolt parts accessible from the engine bay and often just need cleaning. A failed lock-up solenoid sets a general Code 70 (Automatic Transaxle) check-engine light; the solenoid costs less than $200 to replace.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Genuine Honda 08200-9008 ATF DW-1 (ATF-Z1), 2 quarts
Repair fluid Honda/Acura automatics requiring ATF-Z1 or DW-1; the issue is specifically the Integra four-speed automatic.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.
Owner tips & cautions
- WarningUse only Honda ATF-Z1 or DW-1. Generic ATF causes shift flare and premature failure.
- TipPull the specific solenoid code before condemning the transmission — a $150 solenoid often fixes it.
Sources for this issue (2)
Find P1298 by make
Browse every documented model and issue for your make.
P1298 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P1298 mean?
P1298 stands for "Injector Driver Module (IDM) Failure / Electrical Load Detector Fault (manufacturer-specific)." P1298 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code with maker-dependent meaning. On Ford diesel (Power Stroke) applications it indicates an Injector Driver Module (IDM) failure, meaning the module that fires the injectors has an internal fault. On some other Ford/Honda references it relates to an Electrical Load Detector (ELD) or related circuit. The diesel IDM variant can cause hard starting, misfire, rough running, or a no-start, so it should be diagnosed promptly.
What are the most common causes of P1298?
The most common causes of P1298 are: Failed Injector Driver Module (IDM) internal fault (Ford diesel), Wiring or connector faults between IDM and PCM/injectors, Poor power or ground to the injector driver module, Electrical Load Detector (ELD) circuit fault (some applications), Corroded or damaged harness connectors, Moisture intrusion into the module/connectors, Faulty PCM/ECM. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1298?
Repair costs for P1298 range from $150 to $3,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P1298?
Au7o has documented P1298 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Acura.
Join 700+ subscribers following Au7o for vehicle insights and updates.
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.