How can I tell if my IMA battery needs to be replaced?

[ktilton65]

Hi!

I have a 2003 insight with CVT. I have noticed over the last months that the IMA battery gauge seems to deplete faster than usual, going down to 2-3 bars, and seems to take longer to recharge. Then the IMA light came on but by the time the dealer was able to get me in, it had gone off (was on for about 6 days, I drove it with no issue). I live in Reno, NV, and do a lot of mountain driving.

I have about 56k miles and the batteryis still under warranty. Could the IMA be in need of replacement? Is there something else that could be happening? I don't like to just wait for the "idiot" light to come on if there is trouble brewing!

Thanks in advance for any help you have to offer!
Kimberly

[Eli]

The IMA light is the only real tell-tale sign. With MT cars, you'll have frequent recalibrations for weeks, months or years before it finally gives up the ghost. I'm not sure how this manifests itself with CVTs.

Drive the car hard, try and get the IMA light to come back, then take it in for warranty work.