Recent Feedback
2003 HCH with 151,000 miles on it. IMA and engine light recently turned on, OBDII codes are P1600 and P1449. Battery gauge was 2 bars short of being full when I took it in. After they applied a software update they told me the battery is now reading a zero charge and needs replaced, but they also said they've never seen a software update cause that to happen, so what might be the problem here?
Country: United StatesMake: HondaModel: Civic HybridYear: 2003Engine: Water cooled 4-stroke SOHC VTEC
The P1600 is IMA system malfunction. P1449 is Battery Module Deterioration. Your vehicle is in need of an IMA battery. The software update should have been applied to your vehicle once the new battery was installed. The update needs to match the battery type.
Clickhere for P1449 code troubleshooting. Basically, there is none. If this code is stored, the battery module needs to be replaced. The battery is sent to the dealer along with what type it is and the vehicle software is updated according to the battery type.
I should also mention that car still runs fine all while showing a zero charge. I take it that this is due to the battery and software update no matching?
Yes, you are correct. The mismatch is the issue here.
Based on your expertise how much longer do you think the battery might last, if the car is driven minimal distances every week?
Once the code is set, the battery is technically finished. I don't think you'll have any driveability problems except for lower power and loss of gas mileage. Do they want you to pay for the replacement of the battery?
Yes, but since I just bought the car on Saturday they also offered to take back the car and return my money if I want, and since I won't have the money to replace until probably August or September I wasn't sure if the battery would last that long
Please hold for a moment, let me get you the phone number to american honda's customer service. Alot of times they will help you with the cost of the replacement of the battery
I have never replaced an IMA battery that didn't have Honda helping out with the cost in some way>
I've read that on various forums as well, but it seems like that usually only applies if the battery hasn't lasted at least 150,000 miles, but I suppose it's worth a shot.
The number is XXX.XXX.XXXX. Just give them the details and most likely the District Service Mgr of the dealership you take it to will verify the code and hopefully offer assistance!!!
I appreciate the help, and I will be hoping for the best.
Glad I could be of help. Best of luck to you and you Hybrid.
Experience: ASE Master Tech L1 Advanced Specialist