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2016 RLX Sport Hybrid - 'Check Hybrid System' Warning & Reduced Power

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 26, 3:57 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid

Hi all,

I'm having a significant issue with my 2016 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid. The 'Check Hybrid System' warning light has come on, and simultaneously, I've noticed a significant reduction in power. It feels sluggish, and the electric motors don't seem to be assisting as much as they used to.

This started happening yesterday, and I'm quite concerned. I haven't seen any other warning lights, just this one. Has anyone experienced this specific combination of 'Check Hybrid System' and noticeable power loss in their RLX Sport Hybrid?

What could be causing this? Any insights before I head to the dealership would be helpful.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 26, 3:57 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'Check Hybrid System' warning combined with reduced power in your 2016 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid is a serious indicator that a core component of the hybrid powertrain is not functioning correctly. This system is complex and integrates the gasoline engine, electric motors, and the high-voltage battery. Here are the most common culprits:

  1. High-Voltage Battery Degradation/Failure: Over time, the high-voltage battery can degrade. A fault within the battery pack or its management system (BMS) can trigger this warning and limit power output to protect the system. Individual cell failures are possible.
  2. Inverter/Converter Issues: The inverter converts DC power from the battery to AC power for the electric motors, and vice-versa during regeneration. A malfunction in this component can severely impact hybrid system operation and power delivery.
  3. Motor-Generator Unit (MGU) Problems: The RLX Sport Hybrid uses multiple motor-generator units. A fault in one of these units, either due to internal damage or a sensor issue, can cause the system to de-rate power.
  4. Cooling System for Hybrid Components: The high-voltage battery and power electronics have dedicated cooling systems. Overheating due to a fault in this system (e.g., low coolant, faulty pump) can trigger warnings and reduce power to prevent damage.
  5. Software Glitch: Less common for a power loss scenario, but a software error in the hybrid control module (HCM) could cause miscommunication within the system.

Diagnostics: This issue will undoubtedly store specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the hybrid system (e.g., P0AXX series codes, B1XXX codes). These codes are critical for diagnosis and will require an advanced diagnostic tool, typically found at an Acura dealership.

When to see a shop: You should stop driving the vehicle if possible and have it towed to an authorized Acura dealership immediately. Driving with a 'Check Hybrid System' warning and reduced power can potentially cause further damage to expensive hybrid components. The dealership has specialized training and equipment to safely diagnose and repair high-voltage hybrid systems.

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