Disconnecting BCM to drive w/our IMA or a mechanic who can

[AndyChan]

This forum has been great. I'm glad I found it because it is just what I need right now.

I have a 2001 Insight and was told that my IMA is bad & needs to be replaced. At $3K, I need to save up some money. I was told I could drive the car on gas alone. My first tank of gas I'm getting about 45 mpg, but of course my 12-volt battery is now about to give up the ghost. I'd like to drive on gas till I find a less expensive way to replace the IMA.

This forum has said how the BCM can be disconnected and the car set-up for gas only. I called my shop, but they told me disconnecting the BCM would effect the emissions & could cause "problems". I was told no licensed shop would do the work. I was advised to do the work myself or find someone else. The last time I worked on my own car it was a VW van.

My question is either:

a) How tough is it to switch a 1st gen Insight to gas only. Are there instructions, manual, or Youtube? Any special tools?

b) Is there a good shop/ mechanic in the Berkeley, CA area who can do this? This is the preferred tip I hope for.

Thanks.

[Eli]

We can replace your battery for considerably cheaper than $3k - with a higher performance battery to boot.

In the mean time, simply turn the switch off and disconnect these three connectors:



As you've found out, no shop knows anything about these cars, so you've come to the right place.

To remove the IPU cover you need a 10mm socket, a T30 Torx bit and either an allen wrench set or an 8mm box wrench for the little bolt above the switch.

[Varak]

As an aside, for as many times as this question has been answered, it would be great if someone could do an actual video of the process required. The pic definitely helps, but it doesn't address the switch and cover removal.

[Stueveo]

Honda Insight (2000-2006) - Battery Bypass Instructions

[AndyChan]

Thanks for the great help to Stuevo & Eli. My one question that the picture from Eli shows the single connection toward the rear of the car being disconnected, in addition to the 2 nearer the driver. Is there any advantage/ disadvantage to disconnecting all 3?

[aisbell]

Originally Posted by AndyChan

My one question that the picture from Eli shows the single connection toward the rear of the car being disconnected, in addition to the 2 nearer the driver. Is there any advantage/ disadvantage to disconnecting all 3?

The advantage to disconnecting all 3 is that you're certain to disconnect the one that really matters I don't know which one that is. There is apparently no disadvantage to disconnecting all 3.