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.
ECM/PCM Replacement
Special Tools Required
- 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*
*Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program at 888-424-6857.
Any one of the above updating tools can be used.
- Make sure the HDS/iN workstation or the MVCI has the latest HDS software version.
- The lifetime points of the Eco guide cannot be carried over to the replacement ECM/PCM.
- Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
- Make sure the HDS communicates with the ECM/PCM and all other vehicle systems. If it doesn't, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see
DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING
). If you are returning from the DLC circuit troubleshooting, skip steps 4 through 7, 18 through 20, and 23 through 24, and do these procedures after replacing the ECM/PCM:
- Replace the engine oil and the engine oil filter (see ENGINE OIL FILTER REPLACEMENT ).
- Clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE POSITION LEARNING CHECK ).
- 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 ECM/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 the READ DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
- Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
- Remove auxiliary under-hood fuse/relay box A.
- Remove the battery hold-down plate (B), then move the battery (C) forward.
- Remove the ECM/PCM cover (D).
- Remove the bolts (D).
- Disconnect ECM/PCM connectors A, B, and C, then remove the ECM/PCM (E).NOTE: ECM/PCM connectors A, B, and C have symbols (A=□, B=Δ , C=◦) embossed on them for identification.
- Install all parts in the reverse order of removal.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
- Manually input the VIN to the ECM/PCM with the HDS.NOTE: DTC P0630 VIN Not Programmed or Mismatch may be stored because the VIN has not been programmed into the ECM/PCM; ignore it, and continue this procedure.
- If the READ DATA (engine oil life) failed in step 7, go to step 21. Otherwise, go to step 19.
- Select the PGM-FI system with the HDS.
- Select the REPLACE ECM/PCM MENU, then select WRITE DATA, and follow the screen prompts.NOTE: If the WRITE DATA indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Select the IMMOBI system with the HDS.
- Enter the immobilizer ECM/PCM code that you got from the iN, and use the ECM/PCM replacement procedure in the IMMOBI MENU of the HDS; it allows you to start the engine.
- If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step 6, clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE POSITION LEARNING CHECK ), then go to step 24.
- If the READ DATA failed in step 7 or the WRITE DATA failed in step 20, replace the engine oil (see ENGINE OIL REPLACEMENT ), and the engine oil filter (see ENGINE OIL FILTER REPLACEMENT ), then go to step 25.
- Select the PGM-FI system, and reset the ECM/PCM with the HDS.
- Update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see ECM/PCM UPDATE ).
- Do the ECM/PCM idle learn procedure (see
ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE
).NOTE: If the IMA battery level gauge displays no segments, start the engine, and hold it between 3, 500-4, 000 RPM without load (CVT in P or N, M/T in neutral) until the level gauge displays at least half of its segments.
- Do the CKP pattern clear/CKP pattern learn procedure (see CKP PATTERN CLEAR/CKP PATTERN LEARN ).
- CVT: Do the start clutch control calibration procedure (see START CLUTCH PRESSURE CONTROL CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ).
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.
