Quote:
Originally Posted by 06si
lets just stick with the SI for now because if we throw in the RSX also they will just be like "this is going to cost us way too much money so we don't wanna do it"
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I think we should include all Honda/Acura models that have had this problem. It strengthens our argument. I'm sure Honda has known about this defect for some time. They are a very wealthy corporation, and probably weighed the risk vs. reward of continuing to produce a faulty transmission. They've saved plenty of money thus far by refusing to redesign this gearbox, and now it's time for them to pay. They're still gonna save money over the complete redesign because people are going to have prove that there's a problem with their particular car.
Here's a letter that I wrote last night. I'd rather not sign it because I can only speak for myself. Only an attorney should speak for everybody. Maybe I could reword the letter so that everybody could send it individually to Honda and Consumer Reports. Let me know what you think.
Dear (blank),
I am writing on the behalf of <# of people> owners of the following model year Honda/Acura vehicles: <provide models and years>. These individuals have identified themselves on 8thcivic.com <list other sites too>, a popular car enthusiast website, as owners of vehicles that are symptomatic of a manual transmission defect. Please find the attached list of VIN numbers for the vehicles in question.
The extent of this defect is mainly limited to 3rd gear, but also affects a limited number of vehicles in 2nd and 4th gear. In general, the defect is manifested by simply attempting to engage the transmission into gear. Many owners report vagueness with regard to the actual engagement. More specifically, prior to engaging the clutch, the driver has the sense that the transmission is in gear, but quickly discovers that it is not once the clutch pedal is lifted. A pronounced grinding then results. This condition seems to occur regardless of engine speed. The range of occurrence reported by owners is from intermittent to constant.
Many owners, including myself, have brought this matter to the attention of their local authorized Honda service departments. My personal experience with local dealerships is one of ignorance with respect to the pervasive nature of the problem; the frequency at which owners on 8thcivic.com are reporting this defect would indicate that Honda service departments are receiving this complaint on a regular basis. Unfortunately, the transmission grinding is so intermittent on my vehicle that Honda technicians have been unable to recreate the condition during two separate test drives. Ultimately, I am concerned about the durability on my vehicle’s transmission, and fear that at some point I will have to replace various system internals.
Currently, there is a Technical Service Bulletin (NHTSA Item #1018868) that acknowledges the condition that I have described above. However, it is limited to 2006 model years only, and simply advises that the manual transmission fluid be changed. Obviously, this epidemic involves many model years, and is indicative of a design, manufacturing, or assembly flaw. I invite you to visit the following internet links that discuss this very issue. <list links>
As I am sure you are aware, probably the most appealing aspect of Honda vehicles is their track record of reliability and durability. One would expect that the purchase of a Honda would ensure many years of trouble-free ownership. Considering the apparent quality that Honda engineers into their cars, one would also expect that if a defect is discovered, the manufacturer would take swift action to acknowledge the defect and consequently remedy the problem.
The Editor in Chief at Consumer Reports will also be receiving a copy of this letter, as I feel it is important that somebody with a larger voice than I be alerted to this matter. I appreciate the time you have taken to read my letter and look forward to resolution of this matter.
Sincerely,