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TQI And New Model Information (02-011)

Publication date: 2002-03-25
Reference number: 02-011

TQI AND NEW MODEL INFORMATION

TQI AND NEW MODEL INFORMATION

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 02-011, Date of Issue:  March 25, 2002
ACURA: 2003 3.2CL
CATEGORY: TQI
APPLIES TO: All

DESCRIPTION

Many of the 3.2CL TQI procedures are the same as for any Acura vehicle, but some features need special attention. This service bulletin outlines the TQI procedures for those features as well as some new model information. If the vehicle is equipped with a Navigation System, refer to Service Bulletin 99-041, TQI of the DVD Navigation System.

This bulletin includes these TQI procedures: 

This bulletin provides this model information: 

TQI PROCEDURES

FUSE INSTALLATION

To prevent battery drain during vehicle shipment, the BACKUP-ACC fuse (40A) in the under-hood fuse/relay box is removed and placed in the beverage holder. Insert the fuse into the fuse/relay box as shown. See Fig 1 .

NOTE: Do not drive the vehicle until you install the BACKUP-ACC fuse; the taillights do not work without it.
Fig 1: Backup-ACC Fuse (40A)
G00225260

SHIFT LOCK RELEASE COVER

The shift lock release is on the right side of the shift indicator trim ring. See Fig 2 . For vehicle operation during shipment, the shift lock release cover is removed and stored in a small bag along with the Owner's Manual in the glove box. Remove the cover from the bag, and install it.

NOTE: If customers need to operate the shift lock release, they must remove the cover.
Fig 2: Shift Lock Release Cover
G00225261

REMOVE TAG FROM PASSENGER SEAT AT TQI

During TQI, remove and discard the bar code tag from the passenger's seat headrest by pulling it straight out. This tag was installed during assembly to identify the seat.

TURN ON REMOTE ACTIVATION OF DRIVER'S SEAT MEMORY

This feature enables the two keyless remote transmitters (up to three transmitters can be used) to activate the DPMS whenever the doors are unlocked. Each transmitter is coded to send either the Memory 1 or Memory 2 signal to the DPMS control unit. The code is marked on the rear of each remote transmitter. The feature can be turned on or off by following the instructions on the back of the transmitters; turn it on during TQI. See Fig 3 .

Fig 3: Remote Transmitter (Memory 1 & 2)
G00225262

When you open the driver's door after unlocking it with the remote transmitter, you'll hear one beep. The driver's seat and outside mirrors will then move to the positions stored in that memory location. When the movement stops, you'll hear two beeps. If the seat and mirrors are already in their memorized positions when you open the driver's door, you'll hear three beeps.

NOTE: If the driver's seat stops while moving backward and then moves slightly forward, the "anti-trap" feature has been activated. Check for an obstruction behind the seat.

IDLE LEARN

The idle learn procedure must be done on all 2003 3.2CLs at TQI so that the ECM/PCM can learn the engine idle speed characteristics. If it is not done or done incorrectly, the engine may have an erratic idle. This procedure also must be done whenever you do any of the following:

  • Disconnect the battery
  • Disconnect the ECM/PCM
  • Reset or replace the ECM/PCM
  • Remove the driver's or passenger's under-dash fuse/relay box
  • Remove the BATTERY (120A) fuse from the underhood fuse/relay box
  • Remove the BACK-UP, ACC (40A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box
  • Remove the No.13 CLOCK, BACK-UP (15A) fuse from the passenger's under-dash fuse/relay box
  • Remove the PGM-FI main relay
  • Disconnect the starter cable terminal from the underhood fuse/relay box
  • Disconnect the connectors between the engine wire harness and the left engine compartment wire harness
  • Disconnect the connectors between dashboard wire harness A and dashboard wire harness B
  • Disconnect ground terminal G1, G2, G101, or G102
NOTE: Clearing DTCs with the PGM Tester does not require you to do the idle learn procedure.
  1. Make sure all electrical items (A/C, audio, rear window defogger, lights, etc.) are off.
  2. Let the engine reach normal operating temperature (the cooling fans cycle twice) of 194°F (90°C).
  3. Let the engine idle with the throttle closed and all electrical items off for 10 minutes.

ONSTAR SYSTEM CHECKS

All 3.2CLs equipped with the optional Acura Navigation System come equipped with OnStar, an in-vehicle communications service, as standard equipment. See Fig 4 .

NOTE: Before doing this procedure, you must complete all other TQI procedures first. The OnStar System is operational from the factory, but the account will not be set up until the vehicle is sold. This procedure checks the system for faults, tests the control functions and audio output, and does a cellular phone test call.
Fig 4: On Star System Controls
G00225263
  1. 1.  Turn the ignition switch to the ACC (I) or ON (II) position.
NOTE: If you are in an underground parking garage or surrounded by tall buildings, you may need to park the vehicle outside or away from the tall buildings. This allows for a stronger signal, making it possible for the phone system to work when you are doing this procedure.

FAULT CHECK

  1. 2.  Look at the OnStar system status indicator on the rear view mirror. See Fig 4 .
NOTE: If the indicator is green and not blinking, but the system is not functioning as described in this service bulletin, call OnStar dealer support at 888-667-8271.
  • If the indicator is green and not blinking, go to step  1 .
  • If the indicator is blinking green, press the Call Answer/End button once, turn the ignition switch off, then go back to step 1.
  • If the indicator is not illuminated or is red, refer to the service manual to diagnose and repair the system.

CONTROL FUNCTION/AUDIO OUTPUT CHECK

  1. 3.  Turn on the audio system, tune in a radio station, then set the volume to a comfortable level.
  2. 4.  Press the blue OnStar button once; the system status indicator blinks green while the system is active.
  • If the sound from the audio system mutes, and you hear an OnStar demonstration message through all of the speakers of the audio system, go to step 5.
  • If you do not hear the OnStar demonstration message, refer to the service manual to diagnose and repair the system.

CELLULAR PHONE TEST CALL

  1. 5.  During the demonstration message, press the blue Onstar button.
    • If the message stops and you hear "Connecting to ... OnStar," go to step 6.
    • If you do not hear the "Connecting to ... OnStar" message, or another message starts, refer to the service manual to diagnose and repair the system.
  2. 6.  Listen for a phone ringing sound.
    • If you hear a ring, press the Call Answer/End button once to end the test call before the call is answered. The OnStar system is fully functional and ready for delivery.
    • If you do not hear a ring, press the Call Answer/ End button once to end the call. Repeat steps 3 through 6.

NEW MODEL INFORMATION

6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION

The biggest change for the 2003 3.2CL is the addition of a 6-speed manual transmission for the Type-S. It is an all-new, compact design created expressly for this vehicle. The transmission has these features:

  • Close ratio gears
  • Short shift throws
  • Multi-cone synchronizers
  • Limited slip differential (no VSA)
  • Electronic reverse lock-out solenoid mechanism

CLUTCH

A self-adjusting clutch (SAC) has been used to ensure consistent clutch pedal height and feel throughout the service life of the clutch. The SAC automatically takes up the slack between the pressure plate and the clutch plate, and it reduces release loads while maintaining consistent diaphragm pressure.

In an effort to reduce the noise and vibrations produced by the engine, clutch, and transmission during acceleration and cruising, a dual-mass flywheel has been used.

The clutch system also includes a one-way delay orifice (check valve) in the slave cylinder. This delay orifice restricts fluid return to the master cylinder, reducing overall drive train shock and limiting the torque load on the transmission components.

NOTE: This new SAC clutch system requires special removal and installation methods. Please refer to the service manual for proper removal and installation procedures. If these procedures are not followed, the pressure plate will be permanently deformed and cannot be reused.

HYDRAULIC DAMPERS

In addition to hydraulic engine mounts, the Type-S with M/T has hydraulic damping units at the front and rear of the engine. With a design similar to a small suspension damping unit, these hydraulic dampers reduce the fore and aft rocking motion of the engine during acceleration and deceleration.

DPMS LOGIC CHANGE FOR M/T

The addition of the M/T and the hand brake required several changes to DPMS logic.

The system operates the same as before when the hand brake is set (on). Press memory position switch 1 or 2, and the seat and mirrors move to the memorized positions. If the hand brake is not set (off), you have to press and hold memory position switch 1 or 2 until the memorized positions are reached. If you release the switch, the seat and mirrors stop moving.

The operation of the DPMS with the keyless entry remote transmitters is also dependent on the hand brake switch. If the hand brake is set, the seat and mirrors move to the memorized positions. If the hand brake is not set, the system does not work.

NOTE: If the transmission is left in reverse, regardless of the hand brake position, the DPMS system does not work. This is due to the integration of the passenger's side reverse tilt-down mirror.

SEAT HEATERS FOR M/T

Due to the addition of the M/T (shift cables) and space limitations, the seat heater switches were moved from the front of the center console to the rear of the console, behind the hand brake. Also, instead of the two-position (HI and LO setting) switch, a single position (HI setting only) switch is used for each seat. In this HI setting, the heater turns off when the seat gets warm and turns back on after the temperature of the seat drops below a certain thermostat-controlled level. It continues to cycle as long as you leave it on. The switches are identified with an L for the driver's seat and an R for the passenger's seat. An indicator on the switch comes on when the switch is turned on.

Because an OPDS sensor is located in the seat-back for the passenger's side airbag system, there is no heater element in the passenger's seat-back.

SPARK PLUGS FOR M/T

The spark plugs in the Type-S with M/T are not platinum, but iridium (IZFR6K-11). Do not substitute platinum plugs; use only the specified spark plugs.

ONSTAR GENERAL INFORMATION

The OnStar system does not require anti-theft codes. The main system components are located in the trunk behind the rear seat, and you must remove the rear seat to access the components. To learn more about the OnStar system's construction and operation, refer to the following information:

  • The 2003 3.2CL Owner's Manual
  • The 2001-03 3.2CL Service Manual
  • The OnStar Service Advisor video "ONSTAR SERVICE FOR ACURA"
  • The Service Advisor Pocket Guide (OnStar)
  • OnStar dealer support at 1-888-ONSTAR-1 (1-888-667-8271)

DRIVER'S WINDOW AUTO UP

The driver's window now has a one-touch Auto Up feature. If you pull back firmly on the driver's window switch (past the detent), then release it, the window automatically raises to the fully up position. To stop this automatic movement, push down on the switch momentarily.

If an obstruction is sensed as the window is going up automatically, the window stops, then lowers several inches. This sensing turns off when the window is just short of the fully up position.

If you disconnect the battery or replace the window regulator, you must reset the power window control unit. To reinitialize the Auto Up feature, do this:

  1. Make sure the window is fully up (closed).
  2. Push down and hold the window switch. Make sure the window goes all the way down (open).
  3. Pull up and hold the window switch. Make sure the window goes all the way up, and then hold the switch for 2 seconds longer.

LATCH SYSTEM

The seating positions in the rear now have provisions for the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. The lower anchors are between the seat-back and seat bottom. Only LATCH compatible child seats should be used with this system. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions on how to install a child seat.

NO ROAD LAMPS

The road lamps in the front bumper have been eliminated for 2003.

DUAL-STAGE AIRBAG FOR DRIVER

Both the driver's and passenger's airbags can now deploy at one of two rates, depending on the severity of the crash.

SIDE AIRBAGS

Side airbags are located in the outer bolsters of the front seats. The front passenger's side airbag system includes an Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). This system consists of sensors and a control unit in the front passenger's seat-back and an indicator on the instrument panel. The control unit sends occupant height and position information to the SRS unit. See Fig 5 .

Fig 5: Occupant Position Detection System
G00225264

The SRS unit automatically disables the passenger's side airbag if it determines that

  • A child or small adult is sitting in the seat andthe passenger's head is in the deployment path of the passenger's side airbag.
  • An object of a specified size/weight is sitting on the passenger's seat.

When the SRS unit senses either of these conditions for more than 3 seconds, it turns off the passenger's side airbag and turns on the SIDE AIRBAG OFF indicator. This is normal. The indicator stays on for 3 seconds after the sensors detect that conditions have returned to normal.

NOTE: The passenger's seat-back does not have a heating element.

PREMIUM FUEL RECOMMENDATION

This vehicle requires premium unleaded fuel (octane rating of 91 or higher). Lower-octane fuel should be used only in emergency situations when premium fuel is not available.

TYPE-S WHEELS

Do not install the 17-inch wheels from the Type-S model onto a premium model 3.2CL. The larger wheels can damage the chassis and the body.

The Type-S uses a different power steering rack, a different front beam, and different radius rods that can accomodate the larger wheels.

WHEEL BALANCE AND ALIGNMENT

The wheels on the Type-S model do not have an exterior flange to mount wheel weights or alignment equipment. Genuine Honda Alloy wheel weights can be used on the inner flange of the wheel; however, tape weights must be used for the outer weights. Alignment equipment must be mounted on the outer lip of the wheels.

5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

With the exception of a heavy-duty torque converter and increased second gear clutch capacity in the TypeS model, the 5-speed automatic transmission in the CL is the same as the one used in the 3.2TL. While in the sequential sport shift mode, the transmission has these features:

  • The driver cannot manually upshift or downshift between first gear and second gear. The transmission automatically upshifts as it would in conventional A/T mode, and it automatically downshifts to first gear when the car comes to a complete stop.
  • If the driver shifts manually while the transmission is still in first gear, the transmission may end up in third gear. Depending on the driving conditions, the driver may be upshifting at the same time the PCM is making a 1-2 upshift. The PCM then "reads" the driver's input as a signal to shift again, and the transmission immediately shifts from second gear to third gear.

VSA (VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST)

The Type-S (with A/T) model is equipped with a vehicle stability assist system that integrates the ABS and TCS systems. In addition to performing the ABS function during braking and the TCS function during acceleration, the system applies the brakes and reduces engine power in certain driving situations to maintain vehicle stability.

Whenever the VSA system is operating, the VSA activation indicator blinks. If the driver turns off the VSA system, the indicator stays on until the next drive cycle or until the driver turns the VSA system back on. See Fig 6 .

Fig 6: VSA Activation Indicator
G00225265

RETRIEVING THE AUDIO UNIT SERIAL NUMBER

To reduce warranty and customer costs whenever an anti-theft code is lost, the audio unit's serial number can be retrieved without having to remove the unit. To recall the serial number, do this:

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the accessory (I) position.
  2. Turn on the audio unit. Make sure "CODE" appears on the display.
  3. Turn off the audio unit.
  4. Press and hold the number 1 and number 6 preset buttons at the same time, and then turn on the unit. The serial number will appear in two parts - the first four digits followed by the last four digits, and then the sequence will repeat. See Fig 7 .
    Fig 7: Audio Unit Serial Number
    G00225266
  5. Enter these eight digits into DCS to retrieve the anti-theft code.
NOTE: If you happen to compare the serial number on the audio system's chassis sticker to the displayed serial number, you will find the first two digits do not match. The serial number on the sticker begins with two alpha characters. When doing an inquiry on DCS, always use "30" followed by the six-digit serial number.

IN-DASH CD CHANGER

All models are equipped with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. Six CDs can be loaded into the unit without the need for a CD cartridge.

Advise your customers to follow the loading instructions in their owner's manual exactly when loading CDs.

PASSENGER'S SIDE REVERSE TILT-DOWN MIRROR

With the mirror selector switch in the center position, the passenger's side mirror pivots down slightly when you shift the transmission into reverse. This gives the driver a better view of that side of the car while parallel parking. The mirror returns to its original position when you take the transmission out of reverse.

NOTE: You can turn this feature off by leaving the mirror selector switch in the L or R position.

HVAC SYSTEM

The redesigned HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) is quieter, more efficient, and easier to use than the system on previous models. For system operation, refer to the owner's manual. The system has a micron air filter that requires replacement during scheduled vehicle maintenance. To replace the filter, refer to section 21 of the service manual.

BRAKE SYSTEM INDICATOR

This indicator comes on when you turn the ignition switch ON (II), whether or not the parking brake is applied. After you start the engine, the indicator goes off if the parking brake is not applied.

WINDSHIELD WIPER ARMS

The windshield wiper arms are positioned below the hood line to eliminate wind noise and improve vehicle appearance. To avoid damaging the hood when you service or replace the wiper blades, turn the ignition switch to ON (II), turn the wipers on, and then turn off the ignition switch when the wipers are in the middle of the windshield.

HEADLIGHT MOUNTS

If a headlight assembly on the CL is damaged in an accident, and the headlight housing can be reused, an auxiliary bracket can be ordered separately to reinstall the headlight housing.

HEADLIGHT MOUNTS

If a headlight assembly on the CL is damaged in an accident, and the headlight housing can be reused, an auxiliary bracket can be ordered separately to reinstall the headlight housing.

FUEL TANK DRAIN BOLT

This vehicle does not have a fuel tank drain bolt.

SERVICE CONNECTORS

The 2003 3.2CL has three service connectors: DLC (data link connector), MES (memory erase signal), and Multiplex Control Inspection Socket.

The DLC has been moved from the center console to the driver's side footwell, behind the center console. See Fig 8 .

Fig 8: DLC Location
G00225267

To read DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes) as flash codes, connect the PGM Tester to the DLC, select SCS on the Tester's menu screen, then turn the ignition switch ON (II). The indicators (CHECK ENGINE, SRS, ABS, VSA) will flash any stored codes.

NOTE: An easier way to retrieve DTCs is by reading them on the PGM Tester screen.

The MES connector is on the back of the driver's side fuse/relay box. To erase SRS DTCs with the MES connector, connect the SCS service connector (T/N 07PAZ-0010100) to it, and follow the erasing procedure in section 23 of the service manual. See Fig 9 .

NOTE: SRS DTCs can also be erased with the PGM Tester.
Fig 9: MES & SCS Service Connector
G00225268

The Multiplex Control Inspection Socket is also on the back of the driver's fuse/relay box. When you troubleshoot the multiplex system, use the MPCS service connector (T/N 07WAZ-00101OA) to jump the connector. Refer to section 22 of the service manual. See Fig 10 .

Fig 10: MPCS Service Connector
G00225269

PGM TESTER USE

To work on this vehicle with the PGM Tester, the Tester must have program card version SN211 or later.