E15
Honda Controller Communication / Internal Fault

Controller shows E15, generator will not start, often after a lightning storm or power surge

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Damaged controller PCB from surge, Loose internal harness connectors, Corrupted controller firmware, Shorted peripheral module on CAN/communication bus

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Disconnect utility and generator power. Remove battery negative before opening the control panel.

  • Inspect internal harnesses: Open the controller enclosure and gently press all multi-pin connectors into place. Look for any burnt or discolored components on the PCB.
  • Disconnect peripherals: If the controller uses a communication bus to external modules (e.g., remote display, network module), disconnect these one at a time and attempt to power the controller to see if E15 clears.
  • Check for moisture: Look for signs of water ingress or condensation inside the control panel. Dry thoroughly and correct any enclosure sealing issues.
  • Controller reset: Some Honda controllers allow a factory reset via menu or jumper. Follow the service manual procedure if available.
  • Replace controller if needed: If E15 persists with all peripherals disconnected and wiring verified, the controller PCB is likely damaged and must be replaced and programmed by a Honda-authorized technician.
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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5

Required Part

Generator Controller PCB
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