Honda Recall 04V-086: Exterior lighting – headlights

Affected: 2001–2002 Honda Civic, 2000–2002 Honda Insight. Filed with NHTSA on February 24, 2004, covering about 440,000 vehicles.

The problem

On certain passenger vehicles, the low-beam terminal on the head light wire harness can overheat and could cause the low beams to fail without warning.

The risk

An unexpected loss of low beams could result in a crash.

The fix

Dealers will inspect the head light switch and coupler for signs of heat damage. If heat damage is present, the dealer will replace the switch and coupler. If no heat damage is present, the dealer will replace the head light switch and one mating pin in the coupler. Owner notification began on April 5, 2004. Owners should contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign04V-086 (04V086000)
Manufacturer numberP23
ManufacturerHonda (American Honda Motor Co.)
ComponentExterior lighting › Headlights
Report dateFebruary 24, 2004
Owners notifiedApril 5, 2004
Vehicles affected440,000
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the lights

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 04V-086 repair free?

Yes. Honda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the head light switch and coupler for signs of heat damage. If heat damage is present, the dealer will replace the switch and coupler.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 440,000 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.