2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

The lowbeams on my 2002 EX Coupe don't turn on anymore. I let the car sit 2 days and they turned on for a split second but went off again and don't come back on.

I researched the issue and it seems to be a common issues for 01-02s. I checked the fuses and bulbs and they are fine, I had to wait for new bulbs to come in from Amazon and those low beams don't work either.

Low beams harness recall has been done on my car already.
I found recall number 04V086000 for the steering column switch but when I called my local dealership they said it had ended in April 2012. Honda North America confirmed this but also told me that the low beams harness recall could have failed. I'm expecting a call back to see if they want to fix it on their dime.

Besides just wait, what can I do? What should I do? Can I check more things on my car?

2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

I don't want to have to do that.

RobertD

if it were me i would just replace the switch and then seriously consider doing the relay mod. this takes all the stress off the factory wiring and switch. it's AMAZING how much brighter headlights usually are after doing this, especially when you never really noticed they were dim before. https://www.danielsternlighting.com/...ys/relays.html

2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the reply. I don't have much extra money in my budget. I would like to fix it with what I already have.

Wouldn't it be best to HID?

RobertD

i think aftermarket HID is more for selfish people that want more light and don't care about blinding oncoming traffic. i would never recommend that.

there is a HIR upgrade that i was reading about but have never tried. i read about it on the candlepower forum where i can pick the lighting nerds brains. informative site if your're ever bored. (:

sdaidoji

iTrader: (1)

HID only works well with lenses that are designed for them, otherwise they will just spread a lot.

junkyard parts?
car-part.com

ezone

Diagnose what's actually wrong with YOUR car instead of searching for what's been wrong with everyone elses cars?



Unplug your headlight switch connector and see if it's toasted the terminal for the red/white wire, and check if whomever did the recall on the wire might not have crimped the butt connector correctly (see if the wire will pull out of the crimped red butt connector)(also depends on which version of the recall was done)


If that doesn't reveal issues, get yourself a wiring diagram and voltmeter, and diagnose it

2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

I just finished doing this before reading your post haha. It's exactly what you said. Except it is in tact, the red/white wire is burnt to a crisp on one side of the butt connector.

ezone

So whomever crimped that red butt connector did a poor job of it and it overheated? That really should have the recall redone (recall = no cost to yourself IMPO). I think recalls should be able to get redone again if it failed. It's certainly a huge safety issue.

2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

They don't want to do it because of aftermarket light bulbs and wiring.

ezone

That's a f'n lame excuse.





Time to DIY? Crimp another butt connector in correctly, or solder it.

2002ExCivic

iTrader: (1)

Yes and the works is simple but they want to charge 130 for diagnostics regardless of actually fixing it. 135 for the actual work.


​​​​​​But if they honor fixing the recall then it's free.

ezone

Got pictures?
It's sounded like your cars recall was the victim of poor workmanship, I just want to see it.



Show up at your dealer with the cover already removed and the burned wire out where the manager can see it? (yes get the manager involved right away, not just the advisors)
It sometimes helps if you're a regular customer, not a 'free stuff only' person.



Check with another dealership?

Contacting Hondas customer service hotline might be an option if all else fails.