TSB 98-031

From NSX-Wiki

TSB 98-031 - Emissions Warranty Extension

October 1998

Dear Acura Owner:

The purpose of this letter is to inform you of an important change in your Acura's emission warranty coverage, a special vehicle inspection, and a free one-time service offer. These remedial actions are designed to maintain the emission control system and performance of your vehicle.

What is the reason for this notice?
Acura recently agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This settlement concerns a technical problem with your Acura's On-board Diagnostic system (OBD). OBD is a required part of your vehicle's computer system that monitors the functions of the emission control system.

The EPA and CARB assert that the OBD system on certain Acura vehicles cannot detect engine misfire under some driving conditions and, therefore, does not meet the requirements of the Clean Air Act. The purpose of the OBD system is to alert the driver of the vehicle that the emission control system may be failing, and to aid service personnel in the repair of the vehicle. If misfire detection is delayed, or misfire is undetected, it may cause the vehicle to emit exhaust emissions that are higher than the law allows and/or affect the performance of the vehicle. Acura is concerned about any improper reduction in the performance of its vehicles and their emission control systems in the real world. Therefore, we have agreed with the government to undertake this remedial action.

The concerns noted above do not affect the current operation, driveability, or safety of your vehicle. Rather, it involves a part of the emission system's diagnostic function. Specifically, the problem is limited to the detection of a misfire condition in your vehicle's engine. You are strongly encouraged to participate in the remedial actions offered in this letter. Participation will decrease the risk that your vehicle may fail an emission inspection test in localities where such tests are required, and will maintain the proper functioning of your vehicle.

Vehicles Affected
- 1995 Acura NSX
- 1995 Acura 2.5 TL
- All 1996 Acura models (except the Acura SLX)
- All 1997 Acura models (except the Acura Integra Type-R and Acura SLX)

Description of the Program

Extended Warranty
To resolve the concerns noted above, Acura has agreed to extend the coverage for parts and repairs covered under the Federal Emissions Warranties (in all states but California) and the California Emissions Warranties. The coverage now becomes 14 years from the date of purchase or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The extension covers (a) any defect that has resulted in the illumination of the malfunction indicator light on your vehicle dashboard display; (b) any defect approved by the EPA; and (c) any emission-related defect, including but not limited to defects in certain emissions-related parts. The Emission Warranty Extension is transferable to a new owner if the vehicle is sold. (Owners are encouraged to keep all maintenance records). If you have questions about this Emissions Warranty Extension please call the American Honda Consumer Affairs Department at 1-800-999-1009.

This does not extend your New Car Limited Warranty.

This does not extend your Rust Perforations Limited Warranty.

Acura will also perform two special free-of-charge services.

Additional service provided by Acura
As part of the settlement, Acura has agreed to perform two special services to your vehicle:

1.Acura dealers will inspect your vehicle's emission control system while it is in the mileage rangeof 50,000 to 75,000 miles. This inspection will ensure that your emission control system is performing properly. Any necessary repairs to the emission control system (including parts and labor) will be performed free of charge.

2.In the mileage range of 75,000 to 150,000 miles, Acura dealers will replace certain emission components in your vehicle free of charge. These components include spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap, and rotor. A free oil and oil filter change will also be part of this one-time service, but remember--your vehicle is not eligible until it has reached 75,000 miles. At the time of this service, the OBD system will be inspected again and any necessary repairs performed free of charge. It is recommended that you have this one-time service performed in conjunction with the scheduled maintenance at 90,000 miles (refer to your owner's manual).

What should you do?
We strongly encourage you to take advantage of these additional services.

1.Your Acura dealer will automatically perform the OBD system inspection due between 50,000 and 75,000 miles when you take your car in for service and it is in the specified mileage range. If and independent shop normally services your car, at some time while your vehicle registers between 50,000 and 75,000 miles, you should contact your local Acura dealer for an appointment to have this inspection performed. Acura will send you a reminder notice about this inspection service on the fifth anniversary of the introduction of the model year of your vehicle.

2.At some time while your vehicle registers between 75,000 and 150,000 miles, contact your Acura local dealer for an appointment to have the one-time service performed. At the time of this service, the OBD system will be inspected again and any necessary repairs performed free of charge. This is in addition to the free oil change and the replacement of emission components. Acura will send you a reminder notice about this one-time service on the ninth anniversary of the introduction of the model year of your vehicle.

If you have questions
If you have any further questions about this notice, or you need assistance with contacting your local Acura dealer, please call the American Honda Consumer Affairs Department at 1-800-999-1009.