Powertrain Control Module Replacement & Substitution (96-011)

Publication date: 1996-04-16
Reference number: 96-011

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT & SUBSTITUTION

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 96-011, Date of Issue: April 16, 1996

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT & SUBSTITUTION

Model(s): 1996 Acura 3.5RL

Group: Electrical

Bulletin No.: 96-011

Date: April 16, 1996

SERVICE INFORMATION

This service bulletin describes what to do if you replace the powertrain control module (PCM), and explains how to temporarily substitute a known-good PCM for testing purposes. (Information on PCM troubleshooting is in section 11 of the 1996 3.5RL Service Manual.)

During engine starting, the PCM receives a coded signal from the immobilizer control unit. See Fig 1 . This signal must match the code stored in the PCM memory. If the signal matches, the PCM functions normally; if the signal does not match, the PCM disables the fuel system (fuel pump and injectors).

Fig 1: PCM, PCM Cover & Bolt Torque - 9.8 N.m (7.2 ft-lb)

PCM REPLACEMENT

If you replace a PCM, the new one must be programmed to accept the coded signal from the immobilizer control unit. To program the PCM, you need the PGM Tester with 5.01 or later software on a 4 MB program card; you also need the password code for the program card. (The password code was sent to your Service Manager in the PGM Tester 5.01 update package letter dated February 9, 1996.)

Connect the PGM Tester.
Select #5 (IMMOBI) from the MAIN menu.
From the IMMOBI menu, select #1 (REWRITE).
From the REWRITE menu, select #2 (ECM) and continue to follow the screen prompts.

PCM SUBSTITUTION - FOR TESTING PURPOSES ONLY

If you take a known-good PCM out of a "donor car" to use for testing purposes, you have to disable the known-good PCM's immobilizer function. With this function disabled, the PCM does not need a coded signal from the immobilizer control unit to operate the fuel system.

To disable the PCM's immobilizer function, you need the PGM Tester with 5.01 or later software on a 4 MB program card.

Using the ACURALINK 2000 system, get the donor car's VIN-specific, four-digit immobilizer disable code.
Remove the PCM from the donor car, and install it in the car you are testing.
Connect the PGM Tester to the car you are testing.
Follow the prompts on the PGM Tester screen.
When the PGM Tester asks for the VIN, enter the donor car's VIN.
When the PGM Tester asks for the odometer reading, push the ENTER button. (The odometer reading is not needed.)
From the MAIN menu, select #5 (IMMOBI).
From the IMMOBI menu, select #2 (CANCELLATION) .
From the CANCELLATION menu, select #1 (CANCELLATION).
Follow the screen prompts on the PGM Tester. When requested, enter the donor car's four-digit immobilizer disable code.
When you complete the procedure, the last screen on the PGM Tester indicates "Immobilizer has been cancelled".
Perform the needed tests on the car you are working on.
NOTE: The PCM functions in the disable mode for 50 starts. After 50 starts, the PCM cancels the disable mode and returns to normal operation. Loss of battery voltage (disconnecting the PCM) DOES NOT cancel the disable mode.
Reinstall the known-good PCM into the donor car after you perform the needed tests.

NOTE: When you install the PCM back into the donor car, the PCM recognizes the coded signal from the immobilizer control unit, cancels the disable function, and returns to normal operation. (The immobilizer system will be fully functional.)

WARRANTY INFORMATION

None, this service bulletin is for information only.