Starter Killed by Dipstick?

This bulletin was released by Honda, with application to 2006 and later Pilot and Ridgeline, 2007 and later Odyssey and 2008 and later Accord V6 models. An improperly set ATF dipstick can lead to a starter motor failure.

The ATF dipstick is located next to the starter motor. If the dipstick is not properly set in its tube, ATF can spill out and soak the starter motor. The fluid will eventually work its way into the motor, causing severe starter motor damage.