2023-2024 Honda Civic Type R MIL On with DTC P0011

Symptoms

Owners of 2023-2024 Honda Civic Type R vehicles may notice the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminating on the dashboard. This is accompanied by the storage of Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0011, which indicates a "Variable Valve Timing Control (VTC) A System Malfunction."

Fault Codes / DTCs

This issue is specifically identified by the following fault code:

Diagnosis / Trigger Conditions

The root cause of the P0011 code and MIL illumination is identified as the Variable Valve Timing Control system's inability to maintain control within its target range. This condition typically occurs during the engine warm-up phase.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

• Special Tool Restriction: Do not use the MongoosePRO VCI device for this service bulletin, as it is not an American Honda approved device.
• Battery Maintenance During Update: The 12-volt battery must be fully charged before starting any software update. Technicians should use a Midtronics GR8-110P AST in Power Supply Mode or a Midtronics DCA-8000 Dynamic Diagnostic Charging System in Reflash Mode, connected directly to the vehicle's battery, to ensure consistent power throughout the procedure.
• Warranty and Module Damage: Control module failure resulting from improper completion of a software update—such as an early key cycle, low battery voltage, or a disconnected DLC cable—is not covered by warranty. If an error occurs during the update or the i-HDS freezes, do not disconnect the battery or turn the ignition to OFF; instead, reboot the i-HDS and restart the process.
• Electrical Operation During Update: To prevent control unit damage, do not operate any electrical components (headlights, audio system, brakes, A/C, power windows, door locks, etc.) while the software update is in progress.
• Routine Software Updates: Warranty reimbursement for technician labor is not provided for routine checking or installation of any available software updates.

Repair Procedure Summary

Honda Service Bulletin 24-070 outlines a multi-step repair process to address the "MIL Is On With DTC P0011" issue. This procedure involves checking the engine oil, updating the PGM-FI software, and performing specific learning routines for the engine's control systems.

1. Engine Oil Check: First, the engine oil level must be checked. If the oil level is low, it needs to be adjusted to the correct level before proceeding.
2. PGM-FI Software Update: The PGM-FI software requires an update. This step references service bulletin 22-100, "Updating Control Units/Modules with the Honda ECU Reprogramming Application," for detailed instructions. It's crucial to ensure diagnostic and reprogramming software versions are up to date, including i-HDS (1.008.024 or later), HDS (3.105.028 or later), and Honda ECU Reprogramming (3.6.0.0 or later).
3. Post-Update Checks: After the software update, an ALL-DTC CHECK must be performed, and any codes set during the update should be cleared.
4. CMP Sensor Learning: The CMP (Camshaft Position) sensor learning value needs to be acquired. This involves navigating through the i-HDS menu (PGM-FI > Adjustment > CMP Learning) and following on-screen prompts, which require the engine speed to be above 2000 rpm and water temperature above 104°F (40°C).
5. IN-VTC Learn Procedure: The IN-VTC (Intake Variable Valve Timing Control) learning procedure is then cleared and completed. This involves specific steps to cool the engine to under 94°F (34°C). The Radiator Fan Function Test can be used to aid in cooling the engine by increasing fan control to 88%. The IN-VTC learning value is then cleared and learned via the i-HDS menu (PGM-FI > Adjustment > IN-VTC Learning Value Clear, then IN-VTC Learning). The IN-VTC learning process may take up to 10 minutes and requires the engine to idle without depressing the accelerator pedal.
6. Final Steps: The vehicle is then turned OFF (LOCK), the SCS line is jumped with the i-HDS, and after 60 seconds, the SCS mode is exited.

Required Tools or Parts

Technicians will need specific software and hardware to perform this repair:

• Diagnostic System: i-HDS (Honda Diagnostic System) with specific software versions (i-HDS Software Version 1.008.024 or later, HDS Software Version 3.105.028 or later, Honda ECU Reprogramming 3.6.0.0 or later).
• Battery Maintainers: Midtronics GR8-110P AST or Midtronics DCA-8000 Dynamic Diagnostic Charging System.
• Program ID: The specific Program ID for the PGM-FI software update is 37805-66V-A040.
• Failed Part Number: The bulletin lists 37805-66V-A04 as a failed part number, likely associated with the software being updated.

Owner Action

If you own a 2023-2024 Honda Civic Type R and experience the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminating with DTC P0011, it is recommended to contact an authorized Honda automobile dealer. The repair involves specialized tools and procedures that should only be performed by skilled technicians. The normal warranty applies to this repair.

Source: NHTSA ID 10253840