2021-2026 Honda Civic Type R Oil Leak TSB 25-089

Honda has released Service Bulletin 25-089 to address an Oil leak at cam chain tensioner inspection cover affecting certain 2021-2026 Civic Type R vehicles. This bulletin provides technicians with a detailed procedure to diagnose and repair the source of the oil leak.

Owners of affected vehicles experiencing a Civic Type R oil leak should be aware of this bulletin and consult their authorized Honda dealer for diagnosis and repair.

Symptoms

The primary symptom identified in Service Bulletin 25-089 is an "Oil leak at the cam chain tensioner inspection cover." Owners may notice oil stains or drips under the vehicle, particularly in the area of the engine's cam chain tensioner.

Diagnosis

The root cause of the Civic Type R oil leak is often insufficient sealant adhesion on the cam chain tensioner inspection cover. To accurately diagnose the issue, technicians are instructed to perform an engine oil leak diagnostic using the Honda Leak Detection Kit.

This diagnostic process involves several steps. Technicians will pinch off the PCV tube, remove intake tubing, plug the breather tube, and remove the engine oil dipstick. A specialized fitting is then inserted into the dipstick hole, and an air pump is used to pressurize the crankcase. The suspected leak area is sprayed with soapy water, and the presence of air bubbles confirms a leak from the cam chain tensioner inspection cover.

Repair Procedure Summary

If the cam chain tensioner inspection cover is confirmed to be the source of the oil leak, Honda Service Bulletin 25-089 outlines a specific repair procedure. The process begins with removing the cam chain tensioner inspection cover and thoroughly cleaning off any old sealant from both the cover and the cam chain cover.

New Hondabond HT Silicone Gasket (part number 08718-0004) is then applied in a precise 2.5 mm bead to the inspection cover. The cover must be reinstalled within four minutes of sealant application, and the bolts are torqued to 9 lb-ft. After the cover is secured, the Engine Oil Leak Detection Kit is removed, and all previously removed parts are reinstalled.

Required Tools and Parts

To perform the diagnosis and repair for the Civic Type R oil leak, specific tools and materials are required:

• Honda Leak Detection Kit: Part Number 07AAJ-5A2A100
• Hondabond HT Silicone Gasket: Part Number 08718-0004 (one tube per five repairs)
• Chain Case Cover (2.0L Turbo): Part Number 11412-RPY-G00 (only if replacement is necessary due to damage)

Important Warnings

Technicians must adhere to strict guidelines during the repair process to ensure proper sealing and prevent future leaks:

• If too much time passes after applying the new sealant, the old sealant and residue must be removed, and new sealant reapplied.
• After installing the cover, wait at least 30 minutes before filling the engine with oil.
• Do not run the engine for at least 3 hours after installing the parts.

Owner Action

If you own a 2021-2026 Honda Civic Type R and suspect an engine oil leak, especially an "Oil leak at cam chain tensioner inspection cover," it is recommended to contact an authorized Honda automobile dealer. They can perform the diagnostic procedure outlined in Service Bulletin 25-089 to confirm the source of the leak and carry out the necessary repairs. Honda is not notifying consumers directly about this bulletin, so proactive communication with your dealer is essential.

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Source: NHTSA ID 11023271