New HCH/Bad O2 Sensor

I am unaware of any issues relating to O2 sensor failures in the second generation HCH.

But, these things are not totally uncommon even for Honda and Toyota. No matter how carefully a vehicle is assembled, there will always be a part or component out of the thousands in these advanced cars, that is likely to have a manufacturing defect at assembly time. These things do happen and they are a statistical reality.

Fortunately for us, the probability of such early failures in Hondas and Toyotas is the lowest of all manufacturers... so I can assure you that you have chosen a great car and it will serve you well and reliably.

Cheers;

MSantos

As I mentioned before, there have been no widespread failures of the O2 sensor on the gen 2 HCH reported by Honda yet.

However, it does sound odd that you would have had 2 replacements so soon already. Without any more information, the only thing I can do is supply additional info that may provide a clue or two. Please let us know if any apply:

1. Low quality gas can cause premature deterioration of the O2 sensor. Inappropriate levels of lead, sulfur, burnt oils, fuel additives and even silicone are substances that are common culprits.
2. Where you live can matter a whole lot too. For example, airborne road salts, water, airborne dirt and other chemicals.
3. Dirty air filter. Again for the same reason as previous.

Other reasons for early failures is age, as slowly the contaminants accumulate on the tip of the O2 sensor and that causes erratic voltage levels. But clearly, age is not a problem in your case.

One other question: Have you been keeping up with the software updates? These software updates often affect the rich content of the fuel and that more often than not, has a good bearing not only on the O2 sensor but also the life of catalytic converter as well.

Cheers;

MSantos

My apologies, I should have been more explicit.

The best way to keep up with the software updates is to visit the dealer once in a while. If you visit the dealer for all your servicing (particularly the oil changes) then that is already as good as it gets.

Just to be clear, my earlier statement accommodated the possibility that some people may prefer to change their own oil and therefore avoid the dealer visits. In doing so, they are saving a little money in the process, but foregoing the opportunity for additional free service that could be critical to their car's reliability in the longer run.

Cheers;

MSantos

I've has SEVERAL problems with the oxygen sensors and catalytic converters (there are two) on my 03 HCH. They've all been replaced at least once. Honda America is very difficult to deal with once you're out of the 80,000 mile warranty. Either I got a lemon or the emissions system in the HCH is very poorly designed.

Hi James, and congratulations on your upcoming HCH.

Onto the answers:

1. Is there a fabric treatment for the seats?
Yes, but you are often better off securing a can of ScotchGuard yourself for a fraction of the price and apply its contents as directed on a free weekend. You can find a good can $10-$15 at most auto departments in the larger stores.

2. Is there an extended warranty for the battery to 150,000 miles?
I don't think so but it also depends on where you live. Ask a local or an online dealer just to be sure.

3. Does undercoating cover the warnings on the underside of the car?
It should NEVER, EVER cover the HV or fuel lines if done properly. The orange sleeved conduits must remain visible and cleared of any other paints or under-body treatments.

4. Should the tire pressure be 32psi or the maximum allowed for the tire?
32 PSI is the absolute safe miminum pressure value. The maximum safe limit is the sidewall rating which is not surprisingly the most fuel efficient and safest pressure setting.

5. I have seen EMF data showing the Prius is no higher than other cars. What is the data on the HCH?
The HCH-II has a marginally lower EMF footprint than the Prius II. So no big issues to report in this department.

6. What Honda fluids should I have at home?
Unless you change your own oil: Few or None
Some fluids have a certain effective shelf life so it may be worth watching that. For example, you should not store CVT fluid as even Honda reserves the right to reformulate as required. On the other hand it makes sense to stock up on 0W20 oil as well as windshield washer fluid whenever you find it at a good price.

I stock nothing more than windshield washer fluid. :)

7. Are there snow tires in this wheel size? Are they recommended?
Yes. But I suggest you mount the snow tires on its own set of steel rims. Mounting and dismounting the winter rubber from the OEM rims will kill the look and finish of the rims in no time in addition to adding to the expenditure twice a year.

8. How can I use a tape player through the radio?
Use an audio extension cable to connect the tape player output to the AUX jack on the HCH-II. Alternatively you can use an FM modulating kit to broadcast the tape music to an FM station of your choice.

9. Fuel: Which fuel is recommended: regular 87 or ethanol 89?
87 WITHOUT ethanol is best.

10. Are both fuels equally controlled for emissions?
Which additives (already in the gas at the pump) are recommended?
You bet. Ethanol does not improve on the HCH-II Tier-2/Bin-2 rating. In fact, it contains less energy which lowers your mileage. Ethanol does help other cars a great deal though.

Cheers;

MSantos

M.Santos: Following up on your comments:
1. Do you recommend two or four snow tires?
2. On the undercoating: do you recommend it or is it redundant to the protection guaranteed by Honda? Does it add more weight than it is worth?

Thanks.

On page 211 of the '06 Owners Manual:

"Mount Snow Tires on all four wheels"

I went with snow tires (on their own rims) with some of our previous vehicles, but would say it depends on your climate. We're in the lower mainland, southwest corner of BC, Canada. I got tired of the investment, labour and storage issues, and now just ensure we have decent all-season tires. Of course on the prairies or back east winters are a lot more severe and prolonged snowy conditions are the norm, and warrant snow tires. Or even here, if you go sking, etc.