Product Update: Insight ECM (00-042)

Publication date: 2000-04-05
Reference number: 00-042

PRODUCT UPDATE: INSIGHT ECM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 00-042, Date of Issue: April 5, 2000

HONDA:	2000 Insight
CATEGORY:	Fuel Emission
APPLIES TO:	2000 Insight - From VIN JHMZE1 thru JHMZE1...YT000440

BACKGROUND

The engine may not start if the ambient temperature is below 0°F (-20°C).

CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION

All owners of affected vehicles will be mailed a notification of this campaign. The text of the customer notification is at the end of this service bulletin.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Replace the ECM (engine control module) with an improved unit. After the ECM replacement, the immobilizer system must be reinitialized. Make sure you have all the customer's keys.

PARTS INFORMATION

Engine Control Module: P/N 06380-PHM-A00, H/C 6441117

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

Operation Number: 124103

Flat Rate Time: 0.5 hour

Failed Part: P/N 37820-PHM-A01 H/C 6344626

Defect Code: 545

Contention Code: K85

Template ID: 00-042A

Skill Level: Repair Technician

REPAIR PROCEDURE

Carefully remove the passenger's side door sill trim.
Remove the two carpet hold-down clips on the door sill.

Fig 1: Carpet Hold Down Clips
Remove the carpet hold-down clip in the passenger's footwell under the glove box. Pull back the carpet.
Remove the ECM cover mounting nuts.

Fig 2: ECM Cover Mounting
Pivot the lower edge of the ECM cover off the mounting studs. Lift the upper edge of the cover off the mounting studs, then pull the cover down and back so it clears the evaporator drain tube.
Remove the two bolts mounting the ECM to the cover. Disconnect the ECM connectors.
Install the new ECM in the reverse order of removal.
Reinstall the carpet and the door sill trim.
Connect the PGM Tester to the data link connector (DLC).
Use the PGM Tester to program the customer's immobilizer key codes into the ECM. Verify that all the keys will start the engine.
Center-punch a completion mark above the first character (J) of the engine compartment VIN.

Fig 3: Completion Mark Location

EXAMPLE OF CUSTOMER LETTER

Product Update: 2000 Insight

Dear Insight Owner:

We have sent you this letter to notify you of two potential problems with your Insight, and what you need to do to have them repaired.

WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS?

The first potential problem involves starting the engine in very cold temperatures (near 0°F). When the starter motor engages, the battery voltage drops very low for a moment, causing the immobilizer system to reset.

The second potential problem involves radio reception. Because the rear window wiper motor is not adequately grounded, it may cause static on the radios AM band when the rear window wiper is used.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Call your local Honda dealer and make an appointment to have your Insight updated. To resolve the problem of starting in cold weather, they will replace the engine control module (ECM). They will also add a grounding strap to the rear window wiper motor to eliminate the radio interference. These updates will be done free of charge. After replacing the ECM, the dealer will need to use the car's keys to reinitialize the immobilizer system. Make sure you take all of the car's keys to your appointment. If you do not, they cannot satisfactorily complete the repair. Please plan to leave your car at the dealer for half a day to allow them flexibility in scheduling.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU FEEL THIS NOTICE IS IN ERROR.

Our records show that you are the current owner or lessee of a 2000 Insight involved in this update. If this is not the case, or the name/address information is incorrect, please fill out and return the enclosed, postage-paid Information Change Card This will help us update our records.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS.

If you have any questions about this notice, or need assistance with contacting a Honda dealer, please call the Honda Consumer Affairs Department at (800) 999-1009.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Sincerely,
AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Honda Automobile Division