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.
2002 Acura 3.2CL BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
PCM Substitution
- Cut a temporary ignition key for test vehicle with a non-immobilizer key blank. Remove and label PCM from test vehicle.
- Remove known-good PCM from donor vehicle and install into test vehicle. Tape donor vehicle's ignition key head to head of the temporary ignition key. This will allow PCM to recognize the code from the donor vehicle's key and start engine with the temporary key.
- If vehicle starts, replace original PCM. Using Honda PGM Tester, reprogram immobilizer code. Retest system operation.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.