Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSACURA1998CL V6-3.0L SOHC (VTEC)REPAIR AND DIAGNOSISPOWERTRAIN MANAGEMENTIGNITION SYSTEMTECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINSRECALLSRECALL - IGNITION SWITCH KEY INTERLOCK REPAIRINSPECTION PROCEDURE
1998 Acura CL V6-3.0L SOHC (VTEC)
Inspection Procedure
1998 Acura CL V6-3.0L SOHC (VTEC)SECTION Inspection Procedure
*NOTE:
Before attempting any repairs, you must thoroughly understand this service bulletin.*
1. Remove the steering column covers. Refer to section 17 of the appropriate service manual.

2. Remove and discard the plastic cover from the ignition switch key interlock solenoid.
3. Note the position of the interlock solenoid plunger; you'll need to install it the same way.
4. Remove and discard the screw from the interlock solenoid. Keep the solenoid attached to its electrical connector.
NOTE:
^ Be careful not to lose the solenoid plunger; it slides out easily.
^ Keep the plunger free of dirt or grease while it's removed from the solenoid.

5. Note the position of the interlock lever spring; you'll need to install the new spring the same way. Also, measure the installed height of the interlock lever pin with vernier calipers. This measurement will be used in both repair procedures.

6. Attach the slide hammer to the interlock lever pin, and use it to remove the pin. Discard the pin, the lever, and the spring.

7. Insert the key into the ignition switch, turn the switch to the ACCESSORY (I) position, and install the gauge block.
8. With the gauge block fully seated, try to turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position.
^ If you cannot turn the switch to the LOCK (0) position, install Key Interlock Repair Kit A (see REPAIR PROCEDURE A).
^ If you can turn the switch to the LOCK (0) position, install Key Interlock Repair Kit B (see REPAIR PROCEDURE B).
Before attempting any repairs, you must thoroughly understand this service bulletin.*
1. Remove the steering column covers. Refer to section 17 of the appropriate service manual.
2. Remove and discard the plastic cover from the ignition switch key interlock solenoid.
3. Note the position of the interlock solenoid plunger; you'll need to install it the same way.
4. Remove and discard the screw from the interlock solenoid. Keep the solenoid attached to its electrical connector.
NOTE:
^ Be careful not to lose the solenoid plunger; it slides out easily.
^ Keep the plunger free of dirt or grease while it's removed from the solenoid.
5. Note the position of the interlock lever spring; you'll need to install the new spring the same way. Also, measure the installed height of the interlock lever pin with vernier calipers. This measurement will be used in both repair procedures.
6. Attach the slide hammer to the interlock lever pin, and use it to remove the pin. Discard the pin, the lever, and the spring.
7. Insert the key into the ignition switch, turn the switch to the ACCESSORY (I) position, and install the gauge block.
8. With the gauge block fully seated, try to turn the ignition switch to the LOCK (0) position.
^ If you cannot turn the switch to the LOCK (0) position, install Key Interlock Repair Kit A (see REPAIR PROCEDURE A).
^ If you can turn the switch to the LOCK (0) position, install Key Interlock Repair Kit B (see REPAIR PROCEDURE B).
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.