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 MANUALSACURA2018MDX BASEREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)ENGINE MECHANICALFUEL SYSTEMENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM / ENGINE MECHANICAL - SERVICE INFORMATION (EXCEPT HYBRID)REMOVAL AND INSTALLATIONPCM REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (2016 2017 2018 2019 2020)REMOVAL

2018 Acura MDX Base

PCM Removal and Installation (2016 2017 2018 2019 2020): Removal

2018 Acura MDX BaseSECTION Removal

NOTE:

Make sure the HDS or the MVCI has the latest HDS software version.
If you are replacing the PCM after substituting a known-good PCM, reinstall the original PCM, then do this procedure.
If you are removing or substituting the PCM, skip the procedures of READ DATA (Engine Oil Life and Starter Counter).

HDS - Connect

Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.

1. Turn the vehicle to the ON mode, but do not start the engine.

2. Connect the HDS to the DLC (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.

3. Make sure the HDS communicates with the PCM and other vehicle systems.

With CAN gateway: If it doesn't, go to the DTC troubleshooting index .
Without CAN gateway: If it doesn't, go to the F-CAN circuit troubleshooting - Refer to: F-CAN Circuit Troubleshooting(Without CAN Gateway) (2016), or F-CAN Circuit Troubleshooting (2017 2018) .

READ DATA (Engine Oil Life and Starter Counter) - Select

1. Select the PGM-FI system with the HDS.

2. Select the REPLACE PCM MENU, then select READ DATA, and follow the screen prompts.

Doing this step copies (READS) the engine oil life data and the starter counter data from the original PCM so you can later download (WRITES) them into the new PCM.
If the READ DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.

READ DATA (ATF Life) - Select (USA and Canada models)

1. Select the A/T system with the HDS.

2. Select the REPLACE TCM/PCM MENU, then select READ DATA, and follow the screen prompts.

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 the READ DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.

SCS - Short

1. Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
2. Turn the vehicle to the OFF (LOCK) mode.
Front Bulkhead Cover - Remove

PCM - Remove

Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.

1. Disconnect PCM connectors A, B, and C.

NOTE: PCM connectors A, B, and C have symbols (A=□, B=Δ, C=◦) embossed on them for identification.

2. Remove the connector (D), and the harness holder (E).

3. Remove the PCM assembly (F).

Courtesy of HONDA, U.S.A., INC.

4. Remove the cover (A) and the bracket (B) from the PCM (C).

RENDER: 1.0x

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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.