Judder from the Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch

B16-060
August 3, 2016
04538 Version 1

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Year	Model	Trim	VIN Range
2012	Odyssey	Touring, Touring Elite	5FNRL5H…CB053446 thru 5FNRL5H…CB148157
2013	Odyssey	Touring, Touring Elite	ALL
2014–15	Odyssey	ALL	ALL

BACKGROUND

A judder from the torque converter lock-up clutch may be felt while driving between 20 and 60mph. The problem is typically diagnosed as a bad torque converter. American Honda investigated the judder and found that the torque converter was not causing the judder; rather, it was caused by deteriorated transmission fluid. The transmission fluid deteriorates quicker than expected when it is exposed to intermittent high heat loads under specific driving conditions. American Honda is working on a software update that will maintain the transmission fluid temperature within the desirable range under all driving conditions and eliminate the potential for this judder. American Honda will revise this service bulletin when the software update is available.

Until the software is released, the judder can be fixed by flushing the transmission fluid as indicated in the FLUSH PROCEDURE. Make sure the customer is aware that this is a temporary fix and he or she will have to return once the software is available to make sure the transmission judder is resolved.

NOTE: American Honda defines flushing the transmission as draining and filling the transmission with a drive cycle three times to help make sure the deteriorated fluid is removed. There are other aftermarket flush systems available, but American Honda does not recommend using them.

TEMPORARY CORRECTIVE ACTION

Take an automatic transmission snapshot and review the data. For more information about capturing and interpreting the data, refer to the job aid Torque Converter Clutch Shudder and Vibration and the Tech2Tech video “Interpreting Torque Converter Judder Snapshot Data.”

Once it is confirmed that the judder is coming from the torque converter, flush the transmission three times as indicated in the FLUSH PROCEDURE. This is a temporary fix that does not affect the durability or life span of the torque converter until the software is developed.

NOTE: There is no need to call Tech Line before undertaking this ATF flush repair.

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

The normal warranty applies.

Operation Number	Description	Flat Rate Time	Defect Code	Symptom Code	Template ID	Failed Part Number
2181BP	ATF flush procedure. Includes test-drive.	1.4 hrs	01102	03505	16-060A	26000-5J7-305

Skill Level: Repair Technician

PARTS INFORMATION

Part Name	Part Number	Quantity
Genuine Honda ATF DW1	08200-9008	11
Washer, Drain plug (18 mm)	90471-PX4-000	1
Washer, Sealing (24 mm)	11107-PWA-300	1

FLUSH PROCEDURE

NOTE: The term “flushing” refers to repeatedly draining and filling the transmission with Honda Genuine ATF-DW1. Other aftermarket flush systems are available, but American Honda strongly recommends that you avoid using them on any Honda vehicles.

Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3,000 rpm without load (in Park or Neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
Position the vehicle on a lift and turn off the engine.
Remove the ATF filler bolt and sealing washer.
Raise the vehicle and make sure it is securely supported.
Remove the drain plug and drain the ATF.
Install the drain plug and original washer and torque it to 49 m (36 lb-ft).
Lower the vehicle and fill the transmission with 6 US qts (3.4 L) of ATF-DW1 through the filler hole. NOTE: Do not use non-Honda ATF because it can affect shift quality.
Install the ATF filler bolt and original sealing washer and torque it to 44 m (32 lb-ft).
Check that the fluid is filled to the proper level.
Raise the vehicle and make sure it is securely supported.
Start the engine.
Press the brake pedal and shift to Drive.
Release the brake pedal. Press the accelerator pedal and bring the speedometer up to 50 mph. Make sure the transmission shifts through the first three lower gears and into fourth gear and the torque converter is locking up.
Apply the brakes to stop the front wheels.
Shift to Reverse, then Neutral.
Repeat the shifting procedure (steps 12 through 15) four more times.
Turn off the engine.
Repeat the above drain, fill, and shifting procedure (steps 2 through 17) one more time.
After the second refill and drive cycle, drain the transmission.
Install the drain bolt with a new washer and torque to 49 N.m (36 lb-ft).
Fill the transmission with 6 US qts (3.4 L) of ATF-DW1.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity

AWD: 3.6 US qts (3.4 L) at change

NOTE: Do not use non-Honda ATF because it can affect shift quality.

Install the ATF filler bolt with a new sealing washer and torque the bolt to 44 m (32 lb-ft).
Clear any DTCs set while driving on the lift.

END

Download (PDF, 44KB)

J2534 Software

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. offers SAE J2534 compliant reprogramming software for Honda and Acura vehicles FREE of charge. This J2534 software, when used with a properly built J2534 pass-thru device , will automatically check for the latest vehicle calibration information.

Important Notice

Do NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or an applicable Honda/Acura Service Bulletin. Control Module updating should only be undertaken by a skilled professional using proper equipment and procedures, or module damage can occur. The process of updating to the latest software not associated with a specific symptom may not resolve other specific customer concerns. Unauthorized or self-directed programming may cause unintended and irreversible effects and lead to vehicle harm and/or customer dissatisfaction.

American Honda urges end users to always use the LATEST production release of the J2534 Honda Reprogramming software. Using the latest version of the software is the best way to ensure successful reprogramming of applicable control modules.

It is possible to damage the vehicle’s electronic control modules during reprogramming. Ensure the following conditions are met BEFORE programming a control module:

The vehicle battery must be fully charged before programming the control module. Stable battery voltage is critical during programming. Any fluctuation, spiking, over voltage or loss of voltage will interrupt programming.
Turn OFF or disable any system that may put a load on the vehicle battery.
Make certain all tool connections are secure. Do NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.

THE ON-SCREEN REPROGRAMMING PROCEDURE MUST BE FOLLOWED EXACTLY AS OUTLINED BY THE SOFTWARE. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL CAUSE THE REPROGRAMMING TO FAIL.

Some modules may require additional programming/setup events performed before or after programming. Please refer to the appropriate Service Bulletins for details. (e.g. IMA Battery Module)

The information in Service Bulletins is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge, tools, and equipment to do the job properly and safely. The procedures should not be performed by “do-it-yourselfers”. American Honda reserves the right to supersede this information with updates. The most recent information is available through American Honda’s on-line technical resources.

Warning: Certain control module systems require special procedures and or hardware to be properly reprogrammed. Before proceeding ahead, check the vehicle list below.

2013 Honda Accord – All Models (VSA System)
2011–13 Odyssey – Warranty Extension: MIL Comes On With DTCs P0301 Through P0304
2011-2012 Odyssey Touring and Touring Elite – Surge, Hesitation, or Judder on Upshifts

Honda J2534 Pass-Thru User Guide

Honda J2534 Pass-Thru Software Download

techinfo.honda.com