[AndrewHorse]

same diagnosis, rat chewed wire needs gas tank

 

[14v6]

This sounds similar.

$3000 Rodent damage to gas tank and lines

Brought the 15 month old Ridgeline in a couple weeks ago for the Emissions System problem alert. Thought it was some person in NJ who was a gorilla when filling my tank. They replaced the fuel filler neck. A few days later, same alert. I had to travel, so it sat for a week before I could bring...

www.ridgelineownersclub.com

 

[Farther]

I assume you know how the dealership pays for those free loaners, beautiful lounges and free Starbucks.

It's a secret government program to secretly give an unearned advantage to dealers known only to a few government insiders and financed by your tax dollars.

Or, more likely good marketing practices that seek to keep customers happy and returning.

 

[rahtx]

same diagnosis, rat chewed wire needs gas tank

That sucks

This person had the same issue with their Accord:

EVAP Leak (Rodent)

Hi there, Long story short have an EVAP leak from a rodent. Hard to believe since it's always garaged, etc. But long story short Honda wants $1500 to replace, saying "they need to replace the whole fuel tank assembly." Very skeptical of this, as it's only the EVAP line that is leaking. Video...

www.driveaccord.net

I can't believe Honda would mold lines into the fuel tank instead of using barbs/connectors and replaceable lines, yet here we are.

If it's indeed the EVAP line, it should be under little to no pressure, so I can't imagine that a handy mechanic wouldn't be able to patch the damaged section with fuel line/hose. But I can understand why a dealership isn't going to bush-fix it like that. Unless you are willing/able to do that yourself, as has been suggested, I think the cheapest option is to just check with your insurance company, as it should be covered under comprehensive...

 

[bluegrass]

Or, more likely good marketing practices that seek to keep customers happy and returning.

Yes, I'm sure it is "good marketing practices".
Is that code for the exorbitant prices and excessive/unnecessary services performed?

 

[Farther]

Yes, I'm sure it is "good marketing practices".
Is that code for the exorbitant prices and excessive/unnecessary services performed?

You are making an assumption that dealers that offer those amenities charge more than other dealers.

 

[bluegrass]

You are making an assumption that dealers that offer those amenities charge more than other dealers.

No, I simply made the comment that money must come from somewhere to pay for those free loaners, beautiful lounges and free Starbucks.
Dealers don't provide these services out of generosity and charity.

Those that don't offer these amenities may or may not charge the same.
They may not have nearby competition. They may have owners unwilling to invest in these amenities. They may be saving up for the next multi-million dollar build/remodel with beautiful lounges and free starbucks.

 

[AndrewHorse]

Here it is off the truck. 1. Is it 100% a bite or can it be a defect?
2. Why can't they just replace the line going from the tank?
3. Can I sue Honda?


$2083 parts and labor.

 

[zroger73]

1. Looks more like rubbing (defect due to improper placement/protection) to me, but good luck proving or getting anywhere with that.

2. Because this line comes only with the fuel tank and isn't available by itself.

3. Of course. You can sue anyone for anything - you can sue me for unsolicited advice, but you won't win.

 

[njamesj]

If it is a bite as you are assuming, take it up with your insurance.

 

[AndrewHorse]

I emailed Honda of North America and NHTSA next up BBB. does it look like a bite to any of you?

 

[stevem5215]

Just cut it out and put a splice in there. Why do you need it all replaced ? Seems simple enough of a fix to me.

 

[AndrewHorse]

 

[rahtx]

I emailed Honda of North America and NHTSA next up BBB. does it look like a bite to any of you?

Hard, if not impossible, to say for sure. As far as I can tell, your earlier pictures don't really show exactly where the hole is in situ. Before dropping the tank, I think I would have had them clearly identify where the hole was as they found it, and then look around for any plausible places it could rub on, any witness marks on nearby components, etc. As it is, I really don't think you can prove that it isn't rodent damage.

All that said, as I mentioned before, I don't think this line is under significant pressure, I really don't see why a competent mechanic couldn't patch in replacement line. It's not like corrugated/flexible fuel hose is some exclusive Honda part. Hell, I think a big enough wrap of flex-seal could probably fix it!

...I'm only mostly joking about the flex-seal, this is not professional advice, and I cannot be held liable for damage, injury or death resulting from an improper fix 👀

 

[njamesj]

I emailed Honda of North America and NHTSA next up BBB. does it look like a bite to any of you?

Do not be reluctant to open a claim with your insurance. You have a dealer statement in writing that says it was a rodent. Let your insurance debate who pays with Honda. That is why you pay insurance. Let them be on your side or reimburse you for comprehensive damage. No need to fight this battle by yourself for solutions from Honda, NHTSA, or BBB which are not going to provide a settlement for you. A lawyer will not get you any more because you have the repair order statement from the dealer. Insurance will likely reimburse right away.

 

[Solo]

I emailed Honda of North America and NHTSA next up BBB. does it look like a bite to any of you?

The work order says, "Chewed by rodent." Honda, nor the BBB is going to do anything about this. On the other hand, being as the cause is on the work order, your insurance may.