Emissions Recall: EVAP Control System (03-035)

EMISSIONS RECALL: EVAP CONTROL SYSTEM

SERVICE CAMPAIGN BULLETIN

BACKGROUND

The PCM does not perform an EVAP control system test if a malfunction occurs in the fuel level sensor circuit. Because of this, the vehicle does not meet state and federal emissions regulations.

CLIENT NOTIFICATION

All owners of affected vehicles will be sent a notification of this campaign. An example of the client notification is at the end of this service bulletin.

Before beginning work on a vehicle, verify its eligibility by checking at least one of these items:

• The client has a notification letter.
• The vehicle is shown on your campaign responsibility report.
• The vehicle is shown as eligible on an iN VIN status inquiry.

In addition to the bulleted verification items, check for a punch mark above the first character of the engine compartment VIN. A punch mark in that location means this emissions recall has already been done.

Some vehicles affected by this campaign may be in your new or used vehicles inventory. These vehicles should be repaired before they are sold or leased. To see if a vehicle is affected by this campaign, do a VIN status inquiry before selling it.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Use the HDS to update the PCM.

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

Operation Number: 123519

Flat Rate Time: 0.2 hour

Failed Part: P/N 37820-RDJ-A57

Defect Code: 5BJ

Symptom Code: P17

Skill Level: Repair Technician

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. If not already done, load the December 2003 or later iN CD onto the iN master terminal. Loading instructions are included in the CD's mailing.
2. Update the PCM with the HDS. For instructions, refer to service bulletin 01-026, Using the HDS
3. Do the idle learn procedure:
   • Make sure all electrical items (A/C, audio unit, defogger, lights, etc.) are off.
   • Start the engine, and let it warm up to its normal operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle twice).
   • Let the engine idle (throttle fully closed and all electrical items off) for 10 minutes.
4. Center-punch a completion mark above the first character of the engine compartment VIN.
5. For California residents only:  Fill out and give to your client a Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction certificate  . On the certificate, write down P17 as the Recall Number. Advise your client to keep this certificate as proof that the emissions recall was completed. Your client will need to submit this certificate to the DMV if the DMV requests it. A supply of these salmon-colored certificates was sent to your service manager. If you need more, use reorder number Y0657.

EXAMPLE OF CLIENT NOTIFICATION

January, 2004

Emissions Recall: Evaporative Emissions Control System 

Dear Acura Owner:

This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board.

What is the reason for this notice? 

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., has found that certain 2003-04 MDXs do not meet state and federal emissions regulations. The powertrain control module (PCM) in your vehicle does not perform an evaporative emissions control system test if a malfunction occurs in the fuel level sensor circuit.

What should you do? 

Call any authorized Acura dealer and make an appointment to have your vehicle repaired. The dealer will update the software in your vehicle's PCM. This work will be done free of charge  . Please plan to leave your vehicle for half a day to allow the dealer flexibility in scheduling.

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

Who to contact if you experience problems. 

If you are not satisfied with the service you receive from your Acura dealer, you may write to:

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Acura Client Services

Mail Stop 500-2N-7E

1919 Torrance Blvd.

Torrance, CA 90501-2746

If you believe that American Honda or the dealer has failed or is unable to remedy the defect in your vehicle, without charge, within a reasonable period of time (60 days from the date you first contact the dealer for a repair appointment), you may submit a complaint to:

Certification&Compliance Division

Vehicle Programs Group

U.S Environmental Protection Agency

2000 Traverwood Drive

Ann Arbor, MI 48105

In California, contact:

California Air Resources Board

P.O. Box 8001

El Monte, CA 91734-8001

What to do if you feel this notice is in error. 

Our records show that you are the current owner or lessee of a 2003-04 MDX involved in this campaign. 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 have questions. 

If you have any questions about this notice, or need assistance with contacting an Acura dealer, please call Acura Client Services at (800) 382-2238, and select menu option #2.

We apologize for any inconvenience this campaign may cause you.

Sincerely,

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. 

Acura Automobile Division