Topic: Spiders in TSX evap system?

[LM]

Apparently spider webs have been found in my 2004 TSX's evap system.  After replacement of the canister and 2 additional visits for service to clean out what they believe are spider webs.  Each time the check engine light had come on and it was not after filling up the tank.  Does anyone have an idea about how this could be happening and the permanent fix?

[Art]

The fuel tank and all lines are sealed from the atmosphere.  At regular intervals the car's computer conducts a test of the evaporative sytem to determine if there is a small leak 20 to 40 thousandths of an inch or a large leak >40 thousandths of an inch.  DTC's are set through OBD2 such as P0455 gross leak, P0442 (.040 leak) P0456 (.020 leak).  Different manufactures use different strategies to determine if there is a leak.  Chrysler use a pressure pump, Ford use a vacuum source, GM use pressure rise after engine stopped.  It appears very difficult for dealers to find these leaks so the diagnosis time is excessive and the fixes do not necessarily correct the problem. 

It is highly unlikely that spiders are in the system or ever were in the system.

I have had this problem (2000 Taurus wagon) for more than 6 months.  Two vists to dealer and paid for 3 hours diagnosis, 3 hours to replace metal filler tube and still had the problem.  Next visit the problem was diagnosed as the gas tank leaking but no fluid loss (estimated $1,000).  So when the weather gets warmer I will be checking the system myself.

Hope this helps.

[articsteve]

It appears very difficult for dealers to find these leaks so the diagnosis time is excessive and the fixes do not necessarily correct the problem. 

    Horrible problem.  Made worse by winter conditions: road salt.

Toyota says to replace canister, valve assemblies, vacuum switching valve and vapour switching pressure sensor.  Although it could be a tiny hole in a hose.    My 2 cents is to replace all connecting hoses before you get into the big money.

I'm so glad I missed most of this pollution control BS.

[curls]

Easy way to find a fume leak: A lighter.  DO NOT try this at home (or anywhere, for that matter), it's a joke! /end stupid disclaimer for the internet-mentally-challenged.

Anyhow, is the TSX still under bumper-to-bumper (60K km) warranty? If so, don't worry too much about it, and let them diagnose and fully correct the problem.  The fact that you brought the initial problem to light before the warranty expired means that any problem arising as part of this initial problem, even shortly after the 60K bumper to bumper warranty expires, should be taken care of hassle-free.

[mrthompson]

...

[LM]

Thanks all.  Yes it should be under warranty until June.  Car only has 34,000 km on it - new in summer 04.  Dealer claims the cost to clean out the spiders is not covered and I had to pay it.  Looks like I will be talking to Honda directly.

[Cord]

What is your rationale for believing that spiders nesting in your car is Honda's fault?

[AVToller]

What is your rationale for believing that spiders nesting in your car is Honda's fault?

Funny, I was wondering the same thing!! 

[quadzilla]

What is your rationale for believing that spiders nesting in your car is Honda's fault?

Funny, I was wondering the same thing!! 

I just read through the entire manual and noticed that Honda/Acura didn't warn the owners that parking by spiders is dangerous to their car.  I think he might have a case. 

[AVToller]

What is your rationale for believing that spiders nesting in your car is Honda's fault?

Funny, I was wondering the same thing!! 

I just read through the entire manual and noticed that Honda/Acura didn't warn the owners that parking by spiders is dangerous to their car.  I think he might have a case. 

I guess some liar lawyer is going to lose his job due to that oversight. 

[safristi]

..here comes anuufferrrr ONE.....................Lawyer or Spyder?

[dorin]

What is your rationale for believing that spiders nesting in your car is Honda's fault?

The rationale seems to be that there really weren't any spiders there in the first place and that was a bogus excuse given by the dealer.  It's a reasonable rationale if the poster believes the dealer to be dishonest.

[safristi]

..RATS!!!!...........

[barrie1]

"Rats" is probably how the spiders snuck in on the backs of the furry little Devils.

[LM]

Sorry, Honda is perfect.  I park the car outside like thousands of others in a regular neghbourhood and I attract spiders.  Yes all my fault....  Seriously, te problem is I don't know who is at fault and what the real problem is.  The dealer appears to be doing it's best.  A car, virtually new should not have such a problem.  I had no problems for 13 years in an Integra - made that was just luck.