A Honda Electronic Load Detector or the ELD is a detector located in the fuse box. Its significant function is to sense any electrical loads in the engine accessories. It helps to detect any malfunctioning in the heater, A/C, lights, fans, different motors, etc. Honda ELD works with the Power Control Module to identify where to draw electric current - usually from the battery or the alternator.
ELD problems highlights
- Level of urgency:medium
- DIY inspection:impossible
- DIY repairs:impossible
- Can you drive?yes
- Price of repairs:$300 - $450
- If ignored:poor alternator work, power anomalies, glitches
- Ways to fix:find a good mechanic for inspection and repairs
Diagnosing a Honda ELD
The Electronic Load Detector can malfunction and drain your car's battery.
Here are two common conditions that often lead to malfunctioning of the ELD and cause defects in the Electronic Control Unit.
- The PCM can suddenly shut down and fail to distribute the required current to the battery because of low engine load. Note that the PCM and ELD work in conjunction.
- The alternator can shut down and cause the car to lose its power. Symptoms include low battery level, light flickering, and indicator lamp malfunctioning.
Symptoms
It can be difficult to notice any malfunctions with the Hondas ELD. Fortunately, you can notice the ELD light indicator on the dashboard if the car's light indicator lamp is working correctly.
Here are a few noticeable symptoms.
- The battery drains faster than the usually before completely shutting down.
- Occasional charging problems with the battery
- Overheating of the unit
- The ELD stops to detect any load attached to the battery, thus causing problems to the unit
- Accessories failure in the unit. Like the alternator, and leads to battery drain, which later affects the charging system plus the ELD
- Starter problems when you attempt to turn on the engine is another symptom of a malfunctioned Honda ELD. The starter will not crank.
Most efficient ways to fix Honda ELD malfunctioning
Understand a few fundamental troubleshooting guides before contacting the experts.
Honda ELD malfunctioning can be a result of several reasons discussed above.
Luckily, there is a step-by-step procedure for fixing the ELD.
- Purchase the new ELD sensor from a reliable source
- Remove the negative terminals from the battery
- Remove the lid (where the ELD is located)
- Remove the four screws that secure the two fuses (ignition switch (40AMP) and battery (100 AMP)
- Carefully remove the old Electronic Load Detector and replace it with the new one
- Replace the two fuses and tighten the screws
- Reinstall the negative battery cable
- Start the car and clear all codes
- Take your car for a test drive to ensure everything is okay
Conclusion
It is always necessary to understand how Honda's ELD works. Understanding it makes the troubleshooting process straightforward.
The above guide has looked at the most effective way of troubleshooting a Honda ELD sensor.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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