P1440 on Acura: How to Diagnose & Fix
P1440 — Acura-specific definition
1 Acura model · 1 documented issue · 1 critical · $2,000-$4,000 repair
P1440 on Acura by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The ILX Hybrid used the Civic Hybrid's Integrated Motor Assist system - a 1.5L engine with a thin motor-generator between engine and CVT and a lithium-ion IMA battery pack. It sold in tiny numbers for only two model years and was dropped after 2014. The IMA pack degrades: individual cell sticks fall out of balance, capacity drops, the state-of-charge display swings wildly from full to empty, assist and regen are cut, and the IMA warning light and check engine light illuminate. Acura Service Bulletin 12-012 (first issued May 2012, revised June 2015) sets up an IMA Battery Exchange Program for ILX Hybrid (and RLX Sport Hybrid) batteries: any internal failure requiring module disassembly is repaired with a remanufactured module, for in-warranty and out-of-warranty repairs alike, with the normal warranty terms applying. Owners also report a second, separate problem: repeated 12V accessory battery failures and no-crank conditions, which on an IMA car is often a symptom of the hybrid system not charging the 12V properly rather than a bad 12V battery.
Common Symptoms
- IMA warning light illuminated
- Check engine light
- State of charge gauge swings rapidly between full and empty
- Loss of electric assist and regenerative braking
- Reduced fuel economy
- Repeated 12V accessory battery failure
- No crank / will not start requiring a jump
How to Fix
Have the dealer read the IMA system codes and run a battery capacity/module test before buying anything. Acura Service Bulletin 12-012 (IMA Battery Exchange Program) governs the repair - it supplies remanufactured modules (new ones are not available) for in- and out-of-warranty cars, but the normal warranty terms apply, so an out-of-warranty car pays for the exchange module. A battery-management recalibration update was also released for IMA cars that changes charge/discharge management and can restore usable capacity on a marginal pack. Full IMA pack replacement runs roughly $2,000-$4,000; reconditioned packs are available for less. If the complaint is repeated 12V battery death, diagnose the DC-DC converter and parasitic draw before replacing the 12V again.
Call to confirm they can assess your vehicle and perform the stated work. Search results do not confirm qualification, eligibility or coverage.
Sources for this issue (3)
P1440 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P1440 mean on a Acura?
On Acura, P1440: Honda/Acura define P1440 as "IMA System Problem" (hybrid Integrated Motor Assist), not an EVAP leak - https://ericthecarguy.com/hondaacura-p1200-to-p1586-obd-ii On Acura it is documented across 1 model: ILX.
How much does it cost to fix P1440 on a Acura?
Published repair estimates on Acura range from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
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Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.