Help for 8th Gen Accord Owners

[aeoporta]

If this is the wrong section, mods feel free to move her, its a work in progress

Brakes

The rear and front brakes which came on accords model year 2008 thru the first half 2010
are defective due to brake pad design, material and brake ebd. The rear brakes
due to the ebd bias will burn up at a higher rate that the front brakes. The front brakes
will melt on the rotors causing the steering wheel to shake due to the rotors warping.

For the front brakes there is a TSB
TSB

For the rear brakes theres is a TSB for canadian accords ONLY. US Accord owners
may receive a free replacement if their brakes go out this will be dependent on
dealer and honda corporate discretion. There is currently a class action
lawsuit settlement currently under discussion for this issue.

Honda Settles Class-Action Suit Over Brakes
http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2010...t-over-brakes/

If you opt not to do the front tsb or rear brake swap to the updated brake pads
you may purchase some aftermarket ceramic brake pads which will resolve this issue.
It is currently unclear at present how long the updated rear brakes and front brake pads
will last.


Exterior

Problem: Rocks, pebbles, and road debris can damage A/C condensor. Repair bill ~1000
Solution: Use the odyssey grill or a lower bumper billet to protect a/c condensor. cost ~60

Problem: Windshield is prone to chips and being cracked by debris
Solution: Repair any cracks or chips or replace windshield. Avoid semis

Problem: Paint chips or cracks or peeling. This is caused by the environmentally friendly water based paint.
Solution: Take car back to dealership for repairs, contact honda corporate, protect paint with clear bra,
was car to aleviate issues.


Problem: uneven exhaust on v6 accords
Solution: This is normal


Problem:Front Suspension Noise clunking over larger bumps, wheezing sound when the struts
compressed and decompressed
Solution: Problem affects early production accords, retun to delarship for in warranty repair.


Engine

Cold Weather Starts

Problem: Car is difficuly to start, smell of fuel, car not turning over
This is due in part to the small battery in the vehicle as well as time it takes
for fuel pump to prime.
Solution: Replace battery with one that has a higher cca, also prime fuel pump before
starting car. Turn key to position 2 and wait 3 seconds before turning key to position 3
aka ignition.

Problem: Car makes a grinding sound when starting especially when it is cold
Solution: Replace actuator on starter if under warranty

Problem: Engine rattles or makes extremely loud noise for 2 seconds on cold start
Solution: There is a tsb for this: TSB


Problem: Battery dies early/Light flickering
Solution: Replace oem battery with one that has higher cca and that is better.
4cyl light flickers A bigger battery will reduce the flickering aka you will notice it less.
6cyl flickers to an extent. HID kits install do not have this issue


Problem: CAI/SRI and V6 accord issues causes engine stumbling, rpms to drop, random revs, cel
Solution: Remove cai/sri


Problem: Heater/hvac, side mirros, seat heaters, high beams stops working. This is due to
an electrical short
Solution: Replace fuse 16

Problem: Oil consumption, aluminum engines burn oil, vtec burns oil,
,pcv, bad break in, leaks, etc
Solution: According to american honda it is normal for a vehicle to burn 1qt every 1k.
Take car to dealership as well as report problem to american honda so they can
do the oil monitoring test. Some 08/09 vehicle engines were not sealed properly
or punched incorrectly by machine making engines during production
which will complicate this issue.


Problem: Engine knocking or making noise
There is no CEL its just noise.
Solution: You may be losing oil, check oil level before engine is
destroyed.
http://www.my8thgen.com/forums/showt...?1744-Chatter&


Problem: Manual Transmission 3rd Gear grinds or pops out
Solution: There is a tsb however drivers have reported that this
does not solve the problem completely. Changing the transmission
fluid seems to resolve this issue, a synthetic or semi synthetic
fluid seems to solve the issue however for optimal performance it
is recommended you change the trans fluid every 10 to 15k.
Drivers have reported that gm friction modified synchromesh,
amosil mtl, and redline mtl solves this issue.



Interior

Problem: Seats squeak, need readjustment
Solution: Move seat back and forth on a monthly basis. There is a tsb
for the passenger seat on the coupe. Honda canada recognizes the squeaking
seat issue. Try honda USA or dealership for a fix



Audio

Sedan EX and up: disable anc mics in front and rear or your sub will blow
Coupe: All trims except ex-l v6 6mt
FYI: Get a battery that can support your audio dreams
Dash kits: metra kit and scosche kit
6.5" speakers all around, custom enclosure for sub or get one on ebay


How to disable A/C in Defrost mode (All Models except EX-L/EX-L V6)

NOTE: This hack cannot be undone in the same manner as it was changed. To return to the factory settings, you must disconnect the battery.
Step 1: Turn the ignition switch to the ON position (you do NOT have to start the engine).
Step 2: Turn the fan knob to the OFF position.
Step 3: Switch to the FACE ONLY vent mode.
Step 4: Turn the temp knob to the COLDEST setting.
Step 5: Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
Step 6: Hold down the RECIRCULATION and A/C buttons simultaneously.
Step 7: While holding those two buttons, turn the ignition switch to the ON position again.
Step 8: Keep holding the buttons, and the yellow light on the RECIRCULATION button will begin to flash after a few seconds.
Step 9: Keep holding them down until the yellow light stops flashing/goes solid, then release them.
Step 10: Test it: Turn the fan back on. With the radio off and the fan on the lowest setting, switch to either DEFROST mode and listen carefully for the condenser fan to kick on. Now, push the A/C button. You should hear the condenser fan shut off, which means the hack was successful. If it doesn't shut off, then something wasn't done correctly.


Test your 8G electronics
Miscellaneous


Those with AUTO Window issue

Problem: when using auto-up function, the driver's or front passenger's window goes up and then reverse on its own.
The window control unit need to be reset, or the run channel is damaged/dirty.

Solution: NOTE:You must do the manual reset from the power window switch at the affected window. For example,
if you're resetting the front passenger's power window control unit, do it from the front passenger's power window switch, not the driver's window master switch.

1. Turn the ignition to ON(ll)
2. Lower the window all the way down with the window switch.
3. Open the driver's or front passenger's door.
Note: Do steps 4 thru 7 within 5 seconds of each other. DO these steps a total of four times in a row. These steps clear the control unit memory.
4. Turn the ignition switch to lock(0)
5. Push down and hold the power window switch.
6. Turn the ignition switch to on (ll)
7. Release the power window switch.
Note: Make sure the auto-up feature doesn't work. If it does, repeat steps 4 thru 7 again, paying close attention to the 5 second time limit for up to 3 more times for each series steps.
8. Lower the window all the way down with the power window switch.
9. Pull up and hold the power window switch until the window goes all the way up, then keep holding the switch for 1 second.
Note: Make sure the auto-up/down feature works correctly by lowering and raising the window with the power window switch. If it doesn't work correctly, repeat the manual reset several times, paying close attention to the 5 seconds time limit. If it still doesn't work, bring it to your dealer


Clutch clicking, squeaking, or creaking

1. There are TWO separate problems that people complain about, and they are very similar in sound/feel to the owner.
* Clutch CLICKING. Distinct, crisp CLICK sound at bottom of pedal travel. Also might experience a more subtle click at top of clutch pedal IF the pedal was fully depressed before returning to the top. The cause: Clutch switch. The clutch switch is used to ensure that the pedal is fully pressed in before starting the car. The top "click" is caused by the upper switch, which <I think> is used for the cruise control - sensing if you've pressed the clutch at all. NO TSB has been released yet, but they expect one eventually. They know of the problem and it does happen in some other models as well (RSX has had a few complaints about it, as has the EL (Canada) and a few TL's).
.
.
* Clutch CREAKING or SQUEAKING. More of a creak or muted squeak. The cause: inadequately lubricated linkage between the pedal and the clutch master cylinder. This is where the "replace master cylinder" treatment is applied, ALTHOUGH IS NOT FULLY NECESSARY. Just lubricating the linkage with appropriate grease should take care of the problem for a long time. I think the "replace master cylinder" was overkill from the service departments, as until recently, they didn't know the exact cause of the problem, so replacing everything that might squeak was the only feasible solution.

Problem: CD player/changer not working or broken
Solution: take back to dealership for in warranty repair, replace unit with aftermarket
radio


Problem: Faded Keys:
Solution: none


Links

TSB, Modifications

[aeoporta]

TSB (some TSB are listed in other sections for better reference)

TSB

TSB also available here

08-09 rear shelf rattle on rough roads 08-083
08 L4 glove box rattle 08-037
08-09 L4 blower motor noise 09-093
TSB for 3rd Gear Grinds, Pop Outs, etc.
08-09 engine whine 09-084
Power steering pump whine,
08-09 steering wheel pop 09-078
Key Fob not working: clean key, rotate battery 90degrees, there is a tsb on this.
10-038 - 2011 Accord: PDI and New Model Information
10-033 - MIL Comes On With DTC P0300 Thru P0304
10-026 - Popping Noise From the Front Seat-Back
10-024 - No XM Sound, but XM Station Info is Displayed
10-023 - White Dust Comes From HVAC Vents During A/C Use
10-019 - Popping or Clicking From the Left/Right Rear Jack Point
10-016 - A/T Gear Position Indicator Panel Squeaks
10-011 - Service Manual Update: Power Window Problems
10-002 - Photos For Warranty Paint Repair Claims





Modifications


M3 roof spoiler

Where did you get your roof spoiler? (courtesy of StarBai)
http://spoilerandwingking.com
Call them (They do not have it listed on the site) and tell them you want it in 46.1" (46 1/4") size (for the coupe)
and paint code, I measured the area already. It was about $67 including shipping.
For sedan 45.25" maybe, Just to be safe measure it yourself to be certain

JDM Inspire decklid replica


Wheels

Bolt pattern 5x114.3 / Thread size 12 x1.5 / OEM 19mm / 64.1 Hub OEM offset +55


Tire Size/Rim Size Calculator/Offset

www.1010tires.com/TireSizeCalculator.asp
www.1010tires.com/WheelOffsetCalculator.asp
www.marksink.com/tire_wheel_offset/offset.html
www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html
www.dakota-truck.net/TIRECALC/tirecalc.html
http://www.performanceprobe.com/misc...calc&page=tire
http://www.rimsntires.com/rt_specs.jsp
www.rocky-road.com/calculator.html


OEM wheels for cheap
http://www.finishlinewheels.com/HONDA/ACCORD/2008/


TPMS reset sensors tool: ateq quickset

Only works on Accord model years 2008 thru 2009, device cost ~150
so cheaper than going to dealerships to updated tpms sensors every season.


Coilovers and Springs

Chasis tightening
Sedan: Ex and up comes with front strut bar aka Front Shock Tower Bar
Coupe: Front Shock Tower Bar standard on all trims

TSX Rear Sway Bar best 70 bucks you ever spent

HID

08+ Accord Coupes: H11 low beam, H11 fog lights
08+ Accord Sedans: 9006 low beam, H11 fog lights

Headlight Retrofit

Sedans require retrofit with hid projectors to eliminate glare. Coupes come with halogen
projectors already.
DIY or send to a lighting place example: lightwerkz.net


Parts

www.handa-accessories.com
www.bernardiparts.com
www.collegehillshonda.com




Extended Warranty Sites

http://www.saccuccihondacare.com/
http://www.bernardiservicecontracts.com/
http://www.curryhondacare.com/

[aeoporta]

place holder

[aeoporta]

place holder 2

[GodSpeed]

Sticky'd

[09^CBP^6MT]

Majestic Honda says this:

THIS SCHEDULE is to assist local owners in car maintenance. Following it will help protect you from major breakdown due to lack of maintenance and extend the life of major components. The recommendations are made from factory suggestions and local repair experience.

SEVERE SERVICE - When most trips are less than ten miles or outside temperatures remain below freezing. When most trips include extended idling or frequent low speed operation ... When towing a trailer or driving rough or muddy roads. When operating in areas with road salt or other corrosive materials.


Lube / Oil & Filter Change: Severe service - Every 3,750 miles or 3 months
Why? The oil and filter collects contaminants that will damage your engine if they are not removed regularly.

Battery: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Why? Battery terminals will corrode, causing a poor connection between the battery post and cable. An improper charge to the battery and a no start condition will result.

Cooling System: Every 45,000 / 75,000 / 105,000 miles
Why? The cooling system service prevents corrosion, which causes the cooling system to malfunction or fail.

Rotate Tires: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months
Why? To obtain maximum tire mileage and performance.

Transmission: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Why? The transmission oil collects contaminants that can damage your transmission.

Valve Adjustment: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (most engines)
Why? Proper valve clearance is critical to maintain engine performance and fuel economy.

Air Filter: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Why? The air filter will become dirty, restricting air flow. This causes a loss of fuel economy and engine performance.

Spark Plug: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (except platinum) - Every 105,000 miles or 84 months (platinum plug models)
Why? Spark plug electrodes will corrode and cause a loss of fuel economy and engine performance if not replaced.

Brake Fluid Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or 36 months
Why? Brake fluid is a hydroscopic fluid, which absorbs moisture and will lead to premature failure of various brake system components.

Brake Inspection (Front / Rear): Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
Why? Brake linings need to be checked for cracking, glazing, contamination and wear.

Timing Belt Replacement: Every 90,000 miles or 72 months (1996 and older) - Every 105,000 miles or 84 months (1997 and newer)
Why? Belts will wear and/or crack. This will result in belt breakage and engine damage.

Parking Brake Adjustment: Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
Why? Brake linings wear and cables will stretch causing the brake to malfunction.

Component Performance: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Why? Preventative maintenance / safety; all fluid levels, brake hoses and lines, exhaust system, suspension components, driveshaft boots, fuel lines & connections, cooling system hoses & connections, tie rod ends, steering gear box & boots.

I was trying to find my brochure from Freeman Honda because they have the stuff they change every 15k, 30k, and etc.

I saw this on another thread and had to quote it. I see it asked a ton. Great post Lisa.

[motoman9]

by far, THE most helpful thread i've ever seen.

[Duckie015]

Sedan EX and up: disable anc mics in front and rear or your sub will blow
how do u do dat?

[hollaway24]

Very informant!!!!!

[09^CBP^6MT]

Sedan EX and up: disable anc mics in front and rear or your sub will blow
how do u do dat?

You have to unplug them brother.

[racerx]

very useful information. thanks

[Duckie015]

i went to driveaccord.net to get the PDF files for the ANC and the front i got off already its just the rear one is harder... can someone help me out??

[aeoporta]

UPDATED
(mods feel free to replace brake section with this one, thanks)

Brakes

The rear and front brakes which came on accords model year 2008 thru the first half 2010
are defective due to brake pad design, material and brake ebd. The rear brakes
due to the ebd bias will burn up at a higher rate that the front brakes. The front brakes
will melt on the rotors causing the steering wheel to shake due to the rotors warping.

For the front brakes there is a TSB
TSB http://mordor.rutgers.edu/accord/tsb/

For the rear brakes theres is a TSB for canadian accords ONLY.
US Accord owners: Please Consult the link for information on the rear
brake settlement.
http://www.girardgibbs.com/hondabrakes.asp

Brake Pads Part 43022-TA0-A40 is the new updated rear brake pads


Other Repair Option

If you opt not to do the front tsb or rear brake swap to the updated brake pads
you may purchase some aftermarket ceramic brake pads which will resolve this issue.
It is currently unclear at present how long the updated oem rear brakes and front brake pads
will last.

When replacing the rear pads:
PIN A is the Slotted Pin and Pin B is the Rounded Pin,
Pin A's Location should be moved to the bottom of the caliper and the
Pin B's location to the top, this will alter the retraction speed
of the caliper from closed to open faster and reduce the drag and
premature wear of the pad material. (thanks to g1 parts)

[maryflint]

you have any cruise control kits? I am really learning a lot from this forum, anyways, thanks for all the links of stores, I really need it.

[KhanhCord]

Coilovers and Springs

Chasis tightening
Sedan: Ex and up comes with front strut bar aka Front Shock Tower Bar
Coupe: Front Shock Tower Bar standard on all trims

TSX Rear Sway Bar best 70 bucks you ever spent

what year TSX and does it fit Sedan or Coupe? and is the size of it also?

thanks

[Vixen89]

owh, I was just looking in this thread and saw your post Steve. haha

I'm looking for my brake fluid and power steering fluid, my baby wants to be serviced.

[Vixen89]

I think our cars are DOT 3, but can be upgraded to DOT 4. 1 bottle of brake fluid for a full change / flush and replace. 1 bottle on power steering. Just trying to help this post out with dumb questions with forgettable meee.

[Tom 6-6]

XM radio cuts in and out - Quick fix is to shut engine off and then restart-- If you still have the warranty or Hondacare the fix ( installing a new XM unit in the trunk- not the whole head unit ) is free at the dealer- XM will charge $15.00 to setup your new unit-- around $275.00 if you have no warranty and you pay--Tom 6-6

[Vixen89]

oh wow, shoo is there a fix on normal radios too? I don't use mines because it's so ...choppy in and out.

[riskybizz]

just curious but do all this defects also apply to the 2011-2012 accord coupe, maybe to early to tell? anybody hear anything about 2011 defects?

[cooperjooper29]

Great thread!

[Vixen89]

Just putting this here as extra information. I'm about to have my 100k service done on my 4cyl - 2008 Honda Accord Sedan and it includes:

Oil Change
Tire Rotation / Balancing
Lubrication of all the seals and hinges on the car
Replacing the Water Pump
Replacing the Engine Coolant
Replacing the External Drive Belt
Spark Plugs (usually done at 105k miles - $154.95 service alone)

^all this for $706.30 from Vandagriff Honda

I told them I don't want my oil and tires done so it only knocked off $100 bucks. I'm gonna do the plugs on my own ..look for some performance plugs or whatever now. Sheesh I was not ready to shell out half a grand for this. xD

UPDATE: I called a local shop and they told me the same service for only $365 bucks..LOL