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 RSX L4-2.0L (VTEC)FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
ECM/PCM Updating and Substitution For Testing
ECM/PCM Updating and Substitution for Testing
Special Tools Required
Honda Interface Module (HIM)
- P/N EQS05A35570
Use this procedure when you have to substitute a known-good ECM/PCM in a troubleshooting procedure. Update the ECM/PCM only if the ECM/PCM does not already have the latest software loaded.
NOTE: Do not turn the ignition switch OFF while updating the ECM/PCM. If you turn the ignition switch OFF, the ECM/PCM can be damaged.
How to Update the ECM/PCM
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Do not start the engine.
2. Connect the Honda Interface Module (HIM) to the Data Link Connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of dashboard.
3. Do the ECM/PCM update procedure as described on the HIM label and in the ECM/PCM update system.
How to Substitute the ECM/PCM
1. Remove the ECM/PCM from the vehicle.
2. Install a known-good ECM/PCM in the vehicle.
3. Rewrite the immobilizer code with the ECM/PCM replacement procedure from the Honda PGM Tester. It allows you to start the engine.
4. After completing your tests, reinstall the original ECM/PCM and rewrite the immobilizer code with the PCM replacement procedure on the Honda PGM Tester again.
Special Tools Required
Honda Interface Module (HIM)
- P/N EQS05A35570
Use this procedure when you have to substitute a known-good ECM/PCM in a troubleshooting procedure. Update the ECM/PCM only if the ECM/PCM does not already have the latest software loaded.
NOTE: Do not turn the ignition switch OFF while updating the ECM/PCM. If you turn the ignition switch OFF, the ECM/PCM can be damaged.
How to Update the ECM/PCM
1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Do not start the engine.
2. Connect the Honda Interface Module (HIM) to the Data Link Connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of dashboard.
3. Do the ECM/PCM update procedure as described on the HIM label and in the ECM/PCM update system.
How to Substitute the ECM/PCM
1. Remove the ECM/PCM from the vehicle.
2. Install a known-good ECM/PCM in the vehicle.
3. Rewrite the immobilizer code with the ECM/PCM replacement procedure from the Honda PGM Tester. It allows you to start the engine.
4. After completing your tests, reinstall the original ECM/PCM and rewrite the immobilizer code with the PCM replacement procedure on the Honda PGM Tester again.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.