LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Acura >> 2008 >> MDX >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Fuel And Emissions Systems >> General Troubleshooting Information >> Substituting the PCM
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Substituting the PCM

Special Tools Required 

NOTE: Use this procedure when you need to substitute a known-good PCM during troubleshooting procedures.
  1. Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
    Fig 1: Connecting HDS To DLC
    G05484902Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  2. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
  3. Make sure the HDS communicates with the PCM and other vehicle systems. If it doesn't, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ). If you are returning from DLC circuit troubleshooting, skip step 4 to  5, then clean the throttle body after substituting the PCM (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  4. USA, Canada models: Select the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS.
  5. USA, Canada models: Select the ETCS TEST, then select the TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the screen prompts.
    NOTE: USA, Canada models: If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue this procedure.
  6. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
  7. Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
  8. Remove the bracket (D), then free the A/C discharge line (E) from the clip (F) and remove the A/C suction line mounting bracket bolt (G).
    Fig 2: A/C Discharge Line, Clip, Bracket And A/C Suction Line Mounting Bracket Bolt With Torque Specification
    G05484903Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  9. Remove the cover (H), then disconnect the PCM connectors A, B, and C.
    NOTE: PCM connectors A, B, and C have symbols (A=□, B=Δ, C=◦) embosed on them for identification.
  10. Remove the bolts (I), then remove the PCM (J).
  11. Install the parts in the reverse order of removal.
  12. Open the SCS with the HDS.
  13. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
    NOTE: USA, Canada models: DTC P0630 "VIN Not Programmed or Mismatch" may be stored because the VIN has not been programmed into the PCM; ignore it, and continue this procedure.
  14. USA, Canada models: Manually input the VIN to the PCM with the HDS.
  15. Update the PCM if it does not have the latest software.
  16. Select the IMMOBI SYSTEM with the HDS.
  17. Enter the immobilizer code with the PCM replacement procedure in the HDS; it allows you to start the engine.
  18. Reset the PCM with the HDS.
  19. USA, Canada models: If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step  6, clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  20. Do the PCM idle learn procedure (see PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
  21. Do the CKP pattern learn procedure.