I have the same problem -- 2003 civic hybrid, and getting codes P1600 and P1449. I've been driving the car with the IMA and CEL light on for over a year with absolutely no problems in terms of operating the vehicle. But now I have failed my emissions test, so have to do something. I am looking for the LEAST expensive option. Any suggestions?

 

Sell to someone like me in another city of state, who doesn't have to pass a dumbass emission code to run the car, then buy something else.

 

My CEL and IMA light have been on for about 4 months, 224,000 miles, I'm still getting around 51 mpg, car runs great and even though I live in California, my 03 HCH is exempt from state smog checks!!!! When I trade it in I guess I'll just reset the codes.

 

I mean seriously let's get a grip on reality hweldon hit the nail on the head. I mean hey 51 is awesome. OMG forgive us if we're throwing a little... and I MEAN LITTLE more carbon stuff out the exhaust. My god, compared to an SUV... please.
Even if you gut the cat, you're still polluting less than anything produced 20 year ago.
Save the earth... I have cancer, I can't even save myself, and I'm gonna save the earth? Really?! Let it go man. Sell it to someone who doesn't have testing in their area and be done with it.

 

Hi I know this thread is very old but I couldn't find a way to message you directly so I hope you see this. I have the exact car you have (or had) an 03 HCH. The CEL is on with codes 1449 and 1600. Wondering HOW is your car exempt from the CA stare smog inspection? I checked and the 03 HCH doesn't meet any exemption categories. Am I missing something? Thanks

 

https://www.bar.ca.gov/Industry/Indu...html#Question1

 

At the time of the post, they were.

It appears to be inconsistently applied. Some have received renewal notifications that don't indicate a smog test requirement.

 

Steve is right. I have had my 03 HCH I since day one. Never have gotten a notice to have it smog checked. I just renewed the registration last month and I'm good until April of 2017. I suspect that next year I will be tagged. Car is still running great with no lights on and she's at 256,000 miles right now. I think her days are numbered, but for right now I'm pretty happy.

 

256K? Is that the original pack? If so, you are likely the luckiest person alive...

If you haven't yet, I recommend you start grid charging. A Prius driver with 315K recently testing his pack (can be done effectively in-car) and found it to be significantly deteriorated (about 35%). He did the Hybrid Automotive charge/discharge triple cycle, and the follow-up test put him at near 90%.

 

OH NO!!! Not the original pack. I am on my third. Original replaced under warranty at 120,000. Second one replaced last year at my expense with Bumble Bee.

I believe the CVT is the weak link on this car. I just change the fluid often and don't push it.