So Fix it

You can reset the airbag light on your Honda Odyssey right from your home garage, saving you time and money. A Honda Odyssey comes with an on-board diagnostics computer that keeps track of all of the vehicles functions. When the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light illuminates on the instrument cluster, you need to have the vehicle towed to your mechanic to have it looked at and replaced. Generally, the SRS light only flashes on when the vehicle has been in an accident. If it turns on when there has been no accident, it means the airbag system is malfunctioning and the vehicle should not be driven. But once you have the vehicle fixed, you can reset the light.

Instructions

1

Put on safety equipment such as work gloves and goggles.

2

Locate the MES connector under the steering column. You can find it next to the fuse box. Pull out the plug in the connector and set aside.

3

Use a knife to strip both ends of the coated wire. Touch one end of one wire into one hole on the MES connector and touch one end of the other wire to the other hole in the connector.

4

Cross the ends of the wires together to create a short. Although its low voltage, you shouldnt touch the exposed wires.

5

Place the key into the ignition and turn it on, but dont allow the engine to turn over while still holding the wires together. Watch as the SRS light blinks on then turns off. Separate the wires right away and the SRS light will turn back on.

6

Repeat Step 5 and the SRS light will flash two times and then turn off.

7

Shut off the Honda and wait 60 seconds. Start the engine and notice as the SRS light illuminates then shuts off.

Whether you purchased your 1996 Honda Odyssey the year it came out, or you purchased a used model, there have been problems reported by consumers regarding this car. Always make sure your car is covered by a warranty because repairs will more than likely be needed.

2009 Recall

In May of 2009, Honda recalled all Odysseys that were manufactured in 1996 due to the headlamps failing to conform to the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108. The lamps in the 1996 Odyssey did not contain the required amber side lectors.

Ignition Problems

Over 500,000 1996 Honda Odysseys had problems with faulty ignition switches that caused the vehicle to shut down while traveling at both low and high speeds. Most of these vehicles were manufactured in China, and exported into North America.

SRS Control Module

Several complaints have been filed stating that after a replacement battery has been installed in the 1996 Honda Odyssey, the SRS light would come on. Upon inspection by mechanics, a conclusion came about that the SRS control module needed to be replaced and the cost would be around $700.

Replacing the rear taillights on your Honda Odyssey with new bulbs can be done at home. The job is basic and takes about 10 minutes. The bulbs used in the rear of the Odyssey are 7443 bulbs, which are available from an auto parts retailer or through the Honda dealer network. Two bulbs often come in a pack, allowing you to replace both taillight bulbs or keep a spare. The same replacement process is used for all Odyssey model years.

Instructions

1

Open the rear lift gate on your Odyssey. Locate the taillight assembly on the side of the van. Locate the two bolt covers along the inboard edge of the assembly. Pry the cover open with a flat screwdriver.

2

Remove the two retaining bolts from the taillight assembly with a socket and ratchet. Set the screws aside in a safe place. Pull the taillight assembly straight back, removing it from the body of the Odyssey.

3

Locate the bulb socket on the rear of the taillight assembly. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise, and pull it straight out of the taillight assembly. Pull the burned-out bulb out of the socket and discard it.

4

Push a new bulb into the socket, making sure its bottom contacts the bottom of the socket. Insert the bulb and socket into the rear of the taillight assembly. Turn the bulb socket clockwise to lock it in place.

5

Position the taillight assembly on the rear of the van. Push it straight in and seat it in the opening. Install the two retaining bolts, and tighten them with a socket and ratchet. Snap the bolt covers closed. Close the lift gate.