P1568 on Honda: How to Diagnose & Fix
Idle Speed Control Throttle Position - Mechanical Malfunction
2 Honda models · 2 documented issues · 2 critical · $1,500-$3,500 repair
P1568 on Honda by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The 9th generation Civic Hybrid (2012-2015) uses a lithium-ion IMA battery pack paired with a 1.5L engine. Premature battery degradation causes the IMA system to enter a "limp" mode where it provides minimal or no hybrid assist. Affected vehicles show dramatically reduced fuel economy (drop from 44 mpg to 28-32 mpg), constant IMA warning lights, and the battery capacity indicator showing minimal charge. A class action settlement approved in 2012 covered 2003-2009 Civic Hybrids (owners received $100-200 checks and software update). The 2012-2015 models were excluded from that settlement but have similar IMA degradation issues.
Common Symptoms
- IMA light and battery warning light illuminated
- Dramatic fuel economy reduction (30-35% drop)
- Battery charge indicator constantly low or at zero
- Engine running more frequently to charge battery
- Loss of electric motor assist during acceleration
- Check engine light with P1568, P1449, P1601 codes
How to Fix
When the IMA battery is replaced on 2012-2013 models, Honda dealers must install updated IMA battery module software (Service Bulletin 14-035). For severe degradation: IMA battery replacement at Honda dealer $2,500-3,500. Independent hybrid-battery shops may offer lower-cost replacement packs; note that NiMH rebuilds sold for earlier Civic Hybrids do not fit this lithium-ion pack. Check Honda IMA battery warranty: 10 years/150,000 miles in CARB states (CA, CT, ME, MD, MA, NY, NJ, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA); 8 years/80,000 miles in other states.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Best Hybrid Batteries fully assembled 2012-2015 Civic Hybrid lithium-ion IMA battery packOEMCrosses Honda 1D010-R1A-305 / 1D010-R1A-315
Complete replacement pack after Honda-capable diagnosis confirms battery failure and warranty/assistance options are exhausted Fitment/availability: Guaranteed-fit page for 2012-2015 Honda Civic Hybrid and OEM numbers 1D010-R1A-305/315; …
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Owner tips & cautions
- TipCheck your state warranty status first - CARB states (CA, CT, MA, NY, etc.) have 10yr/150k warranty on IMA battery; some states have 8yr/80k - free Honda replacement if within warranty
- TipCivicX.com Hybrid forum: Request Honda dealer perform BCM (Battery Control Module) reset and reconditioning procedure before paying for battery - frees sometimes recovers 20-30% lost capacity at no cost
Sources for this issue (4)
- Honda Service Bulletin 14-035: When Replacing An IMA Battery Update The Software (2012-2013 Civic Hybrid)tsb
- AutoGuide - 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid (first lithium-ion battery, 1.5L engine)article
- Christian Science Monitor/AP - Judge approves Honda Civic Hybrid settlement (2003-2009 models)article
- NHTSA Vehicle Page for 2012 Honda Civic - includes complaints and investigationsnhtsa
The first-generation Accord Hybrid (2005-2007, V6 IMA) suffers from deterioration of the NiMH Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) battery pack. As cells lose capacity, owners get the IMA warning light and a check-engine light with battery-deterioration codes, weak/uneven acceleration, frequent gas-engine restarts, and degraded fuel economy. Replacement packs were quoted around 2,500-2,600+ USD, which often exceeds the car's value. This is the legacy IMA-pack failure, distinct from the modern Accord Hybrid PCU/inverter cooling and power-loss items.
Common Symptoms
- IMA warning light on dash
- Check engine light with hybrid battery codes
- Weak or uneven acceleration / reduced assist
- Frequent gas engine restarts
- Drop in fuel economy
How to Fix
Scan for IMA/battery-deterioration codes and run a battery-state-of-charge/capacity test. Remedies: Honda IMA battery pack replacement, a remanufactured/reconditioned pack from a hybrid specialist (often 1,500-2,200 USD installed), or grid-charging/cell-balancing as a temporary measure. A software update (BCM/IMA control) was offered to recalibrate charge behavior on some VINs.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Best Hybrid Batteries 2005-2007 Honda Accord Hybrid replacement batteryOEMBest Hybrid Batteries 2005-2007 Accord Hybrid pack
Replace a capacity-tested failed IMA pack with a complete matched application pack Fitment/availability: 2005-2007 Honda Accord Hybrid 3.0L V6 IMA only. Base listing includes a 3-year/unlimited-mile warranty, core return and contiguous-U…
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Sources for this issue (2)
P1568 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 P1568 mean on a Honda?
P1568 stands for "Idle Speed Control Throttle Position - Mechanical Malfunction." A Volkswagen/Audi-specific code (VAG fault 17976), described in VAG terms as a throttle actuator (J338) mechanical failure. The engine control module commanded an idle throttle position and the electronic throttle body did not mechanically reach it, usually because the throttle plate is binding, sticking, or restricted by carbon. Symptoms are typically a high, low, or hunting idle, stalling at stops, limp mode, and a check engine light. Other manufacturers use P1568 for unrelated faults, so confirm against your vehicle's make. On Honda it is documented across 2 models: Civic, Accord.
What are the most common causes of P1568?
The most common causes of P1568 are: Carbon buildup in the throttle body restricting or sticking the throttle plate, Bent, binding, or damaged throttle plate or linkage, Throttle body basic setting/adaptation not performed after cleaning, replacement, or battery disconnect, Failed throttle actuator motor inside the throttle body, Faulty throttle position sensor within the throttle body assembly, Wiring, connector, or power/ground fault on the throttle body circuit. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1568 on a Honda?
Published repair estimates on Honda range from $1,500 to $3,500 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.