The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the dimmer control for the instrument panel lights could fail due to heat buildup.
The risk
If this occurs, the instrument lights May fail and, at night, the driver May not be able to see the instrument panel gauges, such as the speedometer.
The fix
Dealers will replace a multiplex control unit for the instrument panel lights. Owner notification began June 16, 2004. Owners should contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-256 (04V256000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | P36 |
| Manufacturer | Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) |
| Component | Interior lighting |
| Report date | June 7, 2004 |
| Owners notified | June 16, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 19,572 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-256 repair free?
Yes. Honda dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace a multiplex control unit for the instrument panel lights. Owner notification began June 16, 2004. Owners should contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 19,572 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.