This archive report was first published on 14 July 2020.
Dear Baraza, I have a 2008 Honda Stream with an irritating issue that I need your help to resolve. When I start the car in the morning after several hours of rest, the D light on the dashboard starts blinking, and the engine produces an uncharacteristic whirring sound. The car will jerk if you engage any gear and won't drive smoothly, similar to driving with the hand brake engaged. Initially, the problem wasn't persistent but has since become the daily norm.
My mechanic suggested we reset the car software, and that worked... but not for long. I've also replaced the transmission oil, but nothing is happening. What could the issue be?
Regards, John
Published on July 14, 2020
John's Honda Stream has a transmission issue that requires a diagnostic machine to identify the problem. The flashing 'D' light is the transmission's translation of the Check Engine Light, indicating a need to check the transmission. Resetting the software only cures the symptom, and changing the ATF didn't work, meaning the problem lies elsewhere in the transmission.
Time to find a diagnostic machine, John. There's a caveat, though: while most car ECUs can be plugged into third-party diagnostic equipment, some require proprietary tools found only at authorized dealers to access them.
Meanwhile, another reader, Evans, has a similar issue with his Honda Stream's dim headlights. He can't see anything while driving at night, especially when it rains. Evans has HID headlights with D2S bulbs (4300K) that should be bright, but they're not.
Baraza advises Evans to adjust his headlamps, especially for height, and have them cleaned. He also suggests dimming the dashboard lights, getting the correct eyewear, angling his eyes away from oncoming lights, and situational awareness. Finally, Baraza warns against driving faster than he can see.
