2007 Honda Element SC, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Alternator Control Circuit Troubleshooting

  1. Connect the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) to the data link connector (DLC) (see step 2 in HOW TO USE THE HDS (HONDA DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM) ).
  2. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
  3. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM). If it doesn't communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ).
  4. Check for DTCs (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ). If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before continuing with this test.
  5. Disconnect the alternator 4P connector from the alternator.
  6. Start the engine, and turn on the headlights to high beam.
  7. Measure the voltage between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2 and the positive terminal of the battery.

    Is there less than 1 V? 

    YES  - Go to step  11.

    NO  - Go to step  8.

    Fig 1: Measuring Voltage Between Alternator 4P Connector Terminal No. 2 & Positive Terminal Of Battery
    G05448451Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  8. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch OFF.
    NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
  9. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (24P).
  10. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B18 and body ground.

    Is there continuity? 

    YES  - Repair short in the wire between the alternator and the ECM/PCM.

    NO  - Update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see UPDATING THE ECM/PCM ), or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM (see SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM/PCM, replace the original ECM/PCM (see ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT ).

    Fig 2: Checking Continuity Between ECM/PCM Connector Terminal B18 & Body Ground
    G05448452Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  11. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch OFF.
    NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
  12. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (24P).
  13. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B18 and alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2.

    Is there continuity? 

    YES  - Replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION  ), or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL  ).

    NO  - Repair open in the wire between the alternator and the ECM/PCM.

    Fig 3: Checking Continuity Between ECM/PCM Connector Terminal B18 & Body Ground
    G05448453Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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