1999 Acura 3.2TLFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Key Interlock System Circuit Troubleshooting

  1. Disconnect the key switch connector (7P) from the steering lock assembly.
  2. Connect the No. 7 terminal of the key switch connector to the battery positive terminal, and connect the No. 5 terminal to the battery negative terminal.
    Fig 1: Connecting No. 7 Terminal, Key Switch Connector To Positive Voltage
    G01160006
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ACC (I), then push the ignition key.
  4. Check the key interlock solenoid operation. A clicking sound should be heard while pushing the ignition key, and you should not be able to turn it to the OFF position.

    Does the key interlock solenoid operate properly? 

    1. YES  -Go to step  5 .
    2. NO  -Faulty key interlock solenoid/switch. Replace the ignition key cylinder/steering lock assembly.
  5. Measure the voltage between the No. 7 terminal and body ground.
    Fig 2: Measuring Voltage Between No. 7 Terminal & Body Ground
    G01160007

    Is there battery voltage? 

    1. YES  -Go to step  6 .
    2. NO  -Check for blown No. 47 (20A) fuse in the under-hood fuse/relay box. If the fuse is OK, repair open or short in the wire between the No. 7 terminal of the key switch connector and under-hood fuse/relay box.
  6. Disconnect the A/T shift switch connector on the rear of the shift lever.
  7. With the shift lever in Park and pushed to the right, check for continuity between the No. 3 and No. 8 terminals of the A/T shift switch connector.
    Fig 3: Checking Continuity Between No. 3 & No. 8 Terminals Of A/T Shift Switch Connector
    G01160008

    Is there continuity? 

    1. YES  -Go to step  8 .
    2. NO  -Repair open in the wires between the park pin switch and the A/T shift switch connector. If the wires are OK, replace the park pin switch and the A/T shift switch assembly.
  8. Check for continuity between the No. 8 terminal of the A/T shift switch connector and the No. 5 terminal of the key switch connector.
    Fig 4: Checking For Continuity Between No. 8 Terminal Of A/T Shift Switch Connector & No. 5 Terminal Of Key Switch Connector
    G01160009

    Is there continuity? 

    1. YES  -Go to step  9 .
    2. NO  -Repair open in the wire between No. 8 terminal of the A/T shift switch connector and the No. 5 terminal of the key switch connector.
  9. Check for continuity between the No. 3 terminal of the A/T shift switch connector and body ground.
    Fig 5: Checking For Continuity Between No. 3 Terminal Of A/T Shift Switch Connector & Body Ground
    G01160010

    Is there continuity? 

    1. YES  -Check for loose terminal fit in the key switch connector and A/T shift switch connector. If necessary, substitute a known-good steering lock assembly.
    2. NO  -Repair open in the wire between the No. 3 terminal of the A/T shift switch connector and ground (G501). Repair poor ground (G501).
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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
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  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
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