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.
2013 Acura TL SH-AWD, Automatic TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
ECM/PCM Replacement
Special Tools RequiredΒ
- Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) tablet tester
- Honda Interface Module (HIM) and an iN workstation with the latest HDS software version
- HDS pocket tester
- GNA600 and an iN workstation with the latest HDS software version
- MVCI unit with the latest control module (CM) update software installed
Any one of the above updating tools can be used.
NOTE:
Make sure the HDS/iN workstation or the MVCI unit has the latest HDS software version.
- Connect HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode.
- Make sure the HDS communicates with the ECM/PCM and other vehicle systems. If it doesn't, go to the DLC circuit troubleshootingΒ . If you are returning from the DLC circuit troubleshooting, skip steps 4 through 9, 17 through 22, and 25 through 27, and do this after replacing the ECM/PCM:
- Replace the engine oil (see ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK ) and the engine oil filter (see ENGINE OIL FILTER REPLACEMENT ).
- Replace the ATF (A/T) (see ATF REPLACEMENT ).
- Clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
- Select the PGM-FI system with the HDS.
- Select the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS.
- Select the ETCS TEST, then select the TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the screen prompts.NOTE: If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Select the REPLACE PCM MENU, then select READ DATA, and follow the screen prompts.NOTE:
- Doing this step copies (READS) the engine oil life data from the original ECM/PCM so you can later download (WRITES) it into the new ECM/PCM.
- If READ DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- A/T: Select the A/T system with the HDS.
- A/T: Select the REPLACE TCM/PCM MENU, then select READ DATA, and follow the screen prompts.NOTE:
- Doing this step copies (READS) the ATF life data from the original PCM so you can later download (WRITES) it into the new PCM.
- If READ DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), or press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
- Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
- Disconnect ECM/PCM connectors A, B, and C, then remove the ECM/PCM assembly (D).NOTE: ECM/PCM connectors A, B, and C have symbols (A=β‘, B=Ξ, C=β¦) embossed on them for identification.
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:
- 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.
