Honda PGM-FI Code 86: Serial Communication — Fix
On Honda motorcycles and scooters, PGM-FI code 86 means a serial-communication fault between the ECM and the instrument cluster/gauge — the two aren’t exchanging data correctly.
- Applies to
- Honda motorcycles
- Est. repair cost
- $20 – $200
- Time to fix
- 30–90 minutes
What it means
Usual causes are damaged wiring or a poor connector between the ECM and the cluster, weak power to the cluster, or an ECM/cluster fault. This is a generic Honda PGM-FI code, shown by blinking the FI/MIL warning light (a long blink counts as ten, a short blink as one). It applies to Honda FI models — scooters and underbones like the Click, Vario, BeAT, PCX, ADV, and Wave, as well as CB/CBR motorcycles. Clearing the code needs Honda’s service-check reset procedure (jumping the DLC service connector, or a scan tool) after the fault is fixed.
Symptoms
- FI light on with code 86
- Gauge or warning lights behaving oddly
- Missing data on the display
How to fix it
- 1
Check the wiring and cluster power
1. Inspect the communication wiring and connectors between the ECM and the instrument cluster. 2. Confirm the cluster has a good power and ground feed.
- 2
Diagnose the units
1. If wiring is good, have the ECM/cluster diagnosed. 2. Repair/replace and clear the code.
Frequently asked questions
Is code 86 serious?
It’s a communication fault, not an engine fault, so the bike usually runs — but the dash may misbehave. Start with the wiring between the ECM and the cluster.
Last updated July 16, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.