Sparkplugs... Give it a tune up.
Computer failure?
My 1998 suburban right side is running rich. I was hoping to find a soulutin to your question Mike
check your vacuum line's!
it just means that the o2 sensor before the catalyst is defective or compter isn't getting a reading. the engine is consequently running rich(burning much more fuel than necessary)
YES it will. It will either run RICH or LEAN. Must repair.
CHECK FUEL PUMP REGULATOR, I HAD THE SAME.
Sounds like it's running rich do to choke if it's actually smoke & not due to air temp.
Your civic could be running too rich because you used bad gasoline. It could also be running rich if a spark plug needs replaced.
The oxygen sensor sends s signal to the computer when the engine is running to rich or lean. If you have it scanned for codes then it will tell you what is happening. The oxygen sensor does not have to be bad to set a code. It could be as simple as a vacuum leak. It is best to see a technician and have him diagnosis it than to replace parts that are good.
Excess gas coating? Do you mean unburnt fuel is entering the converter? If so, then the fuel/air mixture is too rich, or you have a cylinder that is not firing.
Code 173 indicates the oxygen sensor is telling the computer that the engine is running rich.