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I received a mailing from Honda regarding a software update to the ECM. Don't have the documents with me, but it says the ECM can misinterpret readings from various sensors, which may cause the check engine light to stay on, and that a software update (ECM reflash) is needed. Also says that if you have paid for CAT replacement you may be eligible for reimbursement.

Has anyone here had this ECM update done? I've read horror stories about IMA performance changing after ECM updates (not this particular update) and FE dropping as a result. So that makes me leery. Also, I'm wondering if the update would require direct access to the ECM, or if it is done through the OBD II port. I have some extra stuff hanging out with my ECM that I wouldn't want a stealership to see... ;)

Of particular interest to me is if any MIMA users have had this done, and if they've noticed any change in IMA behavior.

edit:
HONDA
AUTOMOBILE DIVISION
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
1919 Torrance Blvd., P.O. Box 2215
Torrance CA 90509-9870
July 2007
Product Update: Check Engine Light Stays On
Dear Civic Hybrid or Insight Owner:
This letter is to notify you of a potential problem with your vehicle and what you should do to resolve it.

What is the problem?
Your vehicle's main computer control module (the ECM) can misinterpret readings from various sensors. If this
happens, the check engine light on the instrument panel may stay on.

What should you do?
Contact any authorized Honda dealer for an appointment to have your vehicle updated. The dealer will update
the software in the ECM. This work will be done free of charge. Please plan to leave your vehicle at the dealer
for half a day to allow them flexibility in scheduling.

California Residents -After doing the update, your dealer will give you a Proof of Correction certificate. Keep
this certificate for your records as proof that the product update was completed. Submit the certificate to the
DMV only if the DMV requests it.

What to do if you feel this notice is in error
Our records show that you are the current owner or lessee of a 2003-05 Civic Hybrid or a 2002-06 Insight
involved in this product update. If this is not the case, or the name/ address information is not correct, please
fill out and return the enclosed, postage-paid Information Change Card. We will then update our records.

If you paid to have your vehicle's catalytic converter(s) replaced sometime in the past, you may be eligible for
reimbursement. Refer to the attached Instructions for Reimbursement for eligibility requirements and the
reimbursement procedure.

If you have questions
If you have questions about this notice, or need help contacting a Honda dealer, please call Honda Automobile
Customer Service at (800) 999-1009.

We apologize for any inconvenience this product update may cause you.

Sincerely,
American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Honda Automobile Division

Party on.

just had mine done last week. no changes at all, except the check engine light stays off now. :)

and no mention of any extra wires, etc.

also had the headlight switch recall and handbrake recall done. my headlight switch failed a couple of months ago. i just cross-wired the headlight circuits so my low-beams worked in the high-beam position of the switch until they could do all 3 recalls at once.

What if its a trick to plant a defect because they want to stop stocking parts in a few years?

*kidding*
:woot:

HalfNHalf, what code were you getting that triggered the CEL? I've gotten a P0420 (CAT below efficiency) 3 times, with many miles between each ocrurrance.

yeah, i was getting the 0420 code too. have you seen this thread:

http://www.**************.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=6614

btw, mima #23k.

just had mine done last week. no changes at all, except the check engine light stays off now. :)



Uh, HAF, the Honda letter says this is for 2002-2006 Insights, your signiture
line says you have a 2000...???

Gary
2000 Insight Little Red (Beauty retired)

Yup, saw the thread on the other forum.

Gary- according to the aforementioned thread in the other forum,
On 00-01 Model years the ECM is not flashable and will have to be replaced to accomplish the programming update.