27. Repeat steps 13 through 19.***Acura TSX V6-3.5L Technical Service Bulletin # 09-011 Date 130222
Antitheft - Immobilizer System (Type 7) Information
09-011
February 22, 2013
Applies To
2009-13 TL - ALL Without Keyless Access System
2009-13 TSX - ALL
2011-13 TSX Wagon - ALL
2010-12 ZDX - ALL Without Keyless Access System
Immobilizer System (Type 7)
(Supersedes 09-011, dated February 27, 2009, see REVISION SUMMARY)
REVISION SUMMARY
This service bulletin has been revised extensively. American Honda recommends that you review the entire bulletin.
BACKGROUND
The listed vehicles have a Type 7 GEN5 immobilizer system that disables the vehicle unless a programmed ignition key is used. The transponder in
the ignition key uses a rolling-type code instead of a set code.
In this service bulletin, a programmed ignition key refers to a transponder-type key or keyless transmitter that has been cut to fit the ignition switch
and whose transponder ID code is recognized by the immobilizer system. If you try to start the engine without a programmed ignition key, the engine
cranks, but won't start, or it starts, runs for one second, and stalls.
This service bulletin covers these subjects
^ Immobilizer system components
^ Immobilizer transponder key description
^ System description
^ Adding and deleting keys
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^ Starting the engine without a programmed ignition key
^ Troubleshooting the immobilizer system
^ Replacing the immobilizer-keyless control unit
^ Replacing the PCM
^ Replacing the driver's under-dash fuserelay box
(MICU)
For more information on the immobilizer system, refer to the Body Electrical section of the appropriate service manual, or go online.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
None. This service bulletin is for information only.
IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM COMPONENTS
NOTE
When programming one or more of the immobilizer system components, the HDS may display
This function is locked. This requires you to get a release password from the iN (Interactive Network) to continue. To get the release password,
you need the attempt count recorded in the HDS.
The immobilizer system includes these components
^ Immobilizer transponder keys
^ Immobilizer system indicator
^ Immobilizer-keyless control unit
^ PCM
^ Under-dash fuserelay box (MICU) with built-in IMOES unit and 2-wire B-CAN communication
IMMOBILIZER TRANSPONDER KEY DESCRIPTION
Each vehicle comes with three immobilizer transponder keys (two master keys and one valet key).
Each master key and valet key has a transponder that outputs a rolling-type code (activated by the immobilizer-keyless control unit) when you insert
the key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON (II). The immobilizer system uses this code to determine whether to start the engine.
Both master and valet keys used with this system are sidewinder-type keys. You need a special key cutting machine such as the In-Code H.S. Key
Cutter to cut key blanks. You cannot use the Ilco Immobilizer Key Code Duplicator or Ilco programmable (T5) key blanks with this system.
For key cutting, use the appropriate tool from the Acura Tool and Equipment Program. Call or online log in to the Interactive Network (iN), then
click on Service Quick Links Tool and Equipment Program.
NOTE
The Type 7 immobilizer system differs from the Type 6 by its use of a two-wire B-CAN system.
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The master keys have a battery-operated remote transmitter built into the grip for the keyless functions. The immobilizer function of the key does not
require a battery. The valet key does not contain a battery or other serviceable parts.
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
Immobilizer Indicator
The immobilizer indicator is on the instrument panel.
When you insert a programmed ignition key (master or
valet) into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON
(II), the indicator flashes once and then goes off.
At this point, the engine can be started by turning the ignition switch to START (Ill). Unlike previous systems, the indicator does not come on when
you turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
If you insert a nonprogrammed ignition key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON (II), the indicator flashes until the switch is turned to
LOCK (0). The immobilizer system results vary, depending on how quickly you turn the key.
^ If you turn the ignition switch quickly from LOCK (0) to START (III), the engine will start and run for about 1 second, then shut off.
^ If you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), then pause before turning to START (III), the starter will crank the engine, but it will not start.
Unlike the previous system, when a nonprogrammed key is used and the ignition switch is returned to LOCK (0), the indicator flashes 10 times to
indicate the system has reset.
Immobilizer-Keyless Control Unit
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The immobilizer-keyless control unit is inside the bezel around the steering column. It uses electromagnetic induction to energize the transponder in
the key. There is no direct electrical connection. Once the transponder is energized, the key sends its ID code to the immobilizer-keyless control unit,
which checks the code against the codes stored in its memory. If the ID code matches, the control unit sends a unique serial code to the PCM, and
the engine starts. If the ID code does not match, no serial code is sent, and the engine does not start.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
The PCM is an integral part of the immobilizer system. When the PCM receives the unique serial code from the immobilizer-keyless control unit, it
communicates or handshakes with the immobilizer-keyless control unit by sending back its own unique serial code. If the serial codes are mutually
recognized, the PCM energizes the fuel supply system so the engine can start.
ADDING AND DELETING KEYS
Vehicles originally come with two programmed master keys and one valet key. The immobilizer-keyless control unit accepts a total of six
transponder codes, so three more codes can be stored in its memory. Use the following procedures to add a key, to add multiple keys, to replace
programmed keys, or to clear the codes of lost keys.
Adding a Key
Use the HDS (Honda Diagnostic System) with Acura key blanks to add a key. Make sure you use only Acura key blanks. The HDS rewrites the
immobilizer-keyless control unit, storing the transponder code of the new key in the memory of the control unit.
Preparation
NOTE
Refer to the parts catalog for the correct PNs, and search by the VIN for the correct parts.
To add a key with the HDS, you need these items
^ Immobilizer Master Key Blank
or
Immobilizer Valet Key Blank
^ One programmed ignition key (master or valet) for the vehicle
^ Key code for the vehicle (if cutting by code)
^ Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter
^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
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Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
1. Use an appropriate key blank and the Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter to cut a new ignition key (see the Tn-Code H.S. operating manual).
2. Connect the HDS to the DLC (data link connector).
3. Insert a programmed ignition key into the ignition switch, and turn the switch to ON (II). Turn on the HDS, then log in to the iN screen.
4. At the screen prompts, enter the VIN and the odometer reading, then verify the correct date and time.
5. From the System Selection Menu screen, select IMMOBI.
6. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Immobilizer Setup.
7. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Add and Delete Keys.
8. From the Add and Delete Keys screen, select Add 1 Key.
9. From the Add I Key screen, select Begin to add 1 Key.
10. Follow the on screen prompts. If your HDS is not logged in to the iN, you will have to enter the PCM code you have retrieved from the iN
Immobilizer Code Inquiry to proceed. When you are finished, turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), then turn off and disconnect the HDS.
Adding Multiple Keys
Use the HDS with Acura key blanks to add multiple keys. Make sure you use only key blanks with a V stamped on the shank. The HDS rewrites the
immobilizer-keyless control unit, storing the transponder codes of the new keys in the memory of the control unit.
Preparation
NOTE
Refer to the parts catalog for the correct PNs, and search by the VIN for the correct parts.
To add multiple keys with the HDS, you need these items
^ Immobilizer Master Key Blank
or
Immobilizer Valet Key Blank
^ All of the programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle
^ Key code for the vehicle (if cutting by code)
^ Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter
^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
NOTE
Make sure you change keys when prompted by the HDS.
1. Use the appropriate key blanks and the Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter to cut new ignition keys (see the Tn-Code H.S. operating manual).
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2. Gather up all programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle.
3. Connect the HDS to the DLC (data link connector).
4. Insert a programmed ignition key into the ignition switch, and turn the switch to ON (II). Turn on the HDS, then log in to the iN screen.
5. At the screen prompts, enter the VIN and the odometer reading, then verify the correct date and time.
6. From the System Selection Menu screen, select IMMOBI.
7. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Immobilizer Setup.
8. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Add and Delete Keys.
9. From the Add and Delete Keys screen, select Delete or Add Multiple Keys.
10. From the Delete or Add Multiple Keys screen, select Begin to Delete or Add Multiple Keys.
11. Follow the on-screen prompts. If your HDS is not logged in to the iN, you must enter the PCM code you retrieved from the iN Immobilizer
Code Inquiry to proceed. When you are finished, turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), then turn off and disconnect the HDS.
Replacing All Programmed Ignition Keys
If no programmed ignition keys are available, you need to replace the ignition keys and rewrite the immobilizer-keyless control unit with the HDS.
The HDS clears all transponder codes from the memory of the immobilizer-keyless control unit and stores the transponder codes of the replacement
ignition keys.
Preparation
NOTE
Refer to the parts catalog for the correct PNs, and search by the VIN for the correct parts.
To replace all keys, you need these items
^ Immobilizer Master Key Blank
or
Immobilizer Valet Key Blank
^ Key code for the vehicle
^ Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter
^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
NOTE
Make sure you change keys when prompted by the HDS.
1. Use the appropriate key blanks and the Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter to cut new ignition keys (see the Tn-Code H.S. operating manual).
2. Connect the HDS to the DLC (data link connector).
3. Insert a newly cut ignition key into the ignition switch, and turn the switch to ON (II). Turn on the HDS, then log in to the iN screen.
4. At the screen prompts, enter the VIN and the odometer reading, then verify the correct date and time.
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5. From the System Selection Menu screen, select IMMOBI.
6. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Immobilizer Setup.
7. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Add and Delete Keys.
8. From the Add and Delete Keys screen, select All Keys Lost.
9. From the All Keys Lost screen, select Begin to register keys.
10. Follow the on-screen prompts. If your HDS is not logged in to the iN, you will have to enter the PCM code you have retrieved from the iN
Immobilizer Code Inquiry to proceed. When you are finished, turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), then turn off and disconnect the HDS.
Clearing Transponder Codes Of Lost Programmed Ignition Keys
If one or more (but not all) of the programmed ignition keys are lost, you should rewrite the immobilizer-keyless control unit with the HDS to
prevent the lost keys from starting the engine. The HDS clears the transponder codes from the memory of the immobilizer-keyless control unit and
then stores the transponder codes of the remaining keys. This process clears the codes of the lost keys so they cannot start the engine.
Preparation
To clear the transponder codes of lost programmed ignition keys, you need these items
^ All of the remaining programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log into the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
Procedure
NOTE
Make sure you change keys when prompted by the HDS.
1. Gather up all of the remaining programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle.
2. Connect the HDS to the DLC (data link connector).
3. Insert a programmed ignition key into the ignition switch, and turn the switch to ON (II). Turn on the HDS, then log in to the iN screen.
4. At the screen prompts, enter the VIN and the odometer reading, then verify the correct date and time.
5. From the System Selection Menu screen, select IMMOBI.
6. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Immobilizer Setup.
7. From the Immobilizer Test Mode Menu screen, select Add and Delete Keys.
8. From the Add and Delete Keys screen, select Delete or Add Multiple Keys.
9. From the Delete or Add Multiple Keys screen, select Begin to Delete or Add Multiple Keys.
10. Follow the on screen prompts. If your HDS is not logged in to the iN, you will have to enter the PCM code you have retrieved from the iN
Immobilizer Code Inquiry to proceed. When you are finished, turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), then turn off and disconnect the HDS.
STARTING THE ENGINE WITHOUT A PROGRAMMED IGNITION KEY
If the client is stranded because of lost ignition keys, you can still start the engine using a properly cut key blank and a VIN specific, five-digit
immobilizer brake code. This procedure is suitable when the client plans to drive the vehicle directly to an Acura dealership for repair, or the client
has the programmed ignition keys at home and plans to drive straight home. Advise the client to schedule an appointment to have the immobilizer
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control unit receiver rewritten for the remaining ignition keys; this is needed to clear the transponder codes from the missing keys. If all programmed
ignition keys are lost, the immobilizer control unit must be rewritten to accept the new keys.
Preparation
NOTE
Refer to the parts catalog for the correct PNs, and search by the VIN for the correct parts.
To start the engine without a programmed ignition key, you need these items
^ Immobilizer Master Key Blank
or
^ Immobilizer Valet Key Blank
^ Key code for the vehicle
^ Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter
^ Immobilizer Brake Code (this 5 digit code is available on the iN. Go to SERVICE, select Vehicle Information, then select Immobilizer Code
inquiry.)
Procedure
NOTE
This procedure is only a temporary fix. When the engine is started, the immobilizer indicator stays on.
1. Use an appropriate key blank and the Tn-Code H.S. Key Cutter to cut a temporary ignition key (see the Tn-Code H.S. operating manual).
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Insert the temporary key into the ignition switch.
4. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Wait for the brake indicator bulb check to complete.
5. Enter the first digit of the five-digit immobilizer brake code by setting and releasing the parking brake the required number of times within 30
seconds. For example, if the first digit is four, set and release the parking brake four times.
NOTE
You only need to apply the parking brake enough to actuate the parking brake switch; you don't need to fully engage the parking brake.
6. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). This enters the digit into the PCM.
7. Repeat steps 2 thru 6 to enter the remaining four digits. When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the immobilizer indicator stays on. It stays
on even when the ignition switch is turned to LOCK (0).
8. Start the engine using the temporary key. The system allows the vehicle to be started for 10 minutes. After that, the entire procedure must be
repeated.
TROUBLESHOOTING THE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
Engine Does Not Start
1. Insert a programmed ignition key into the ignition switch, and turn the switch to START (III).
Does the engine crank
Yes - Go to Step 2.
No - The immobilizer system is OK. Refer to the Engine Electrical section of the appropriate service manual, or go online, to troubleshoot the
starting system.
2. Cycle the ignition switch to LOCK (0) then back to ON (II). Make sure that when you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the immobilizer
indicator flashes and then goes off. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0); the indicator should not come on.
Does the immobilizer indicator function properly
Yes - The immobilizer system is OK. Refer to the Fuel and Emissions section of the appropriate service manual, or go online, for additional
troubleshooting.
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No - Go to step 3.
3. Use the HDS to check for DTCs.
Are there any DTCS
Yes - Use the appropriate service manual to troubleshoot the DTCs found, or go online.
No - Go to step 4.
4. Using the HDS, go to the Immobilizer Menu, and select System Check.
5. Read the message on the screen.
^ If the message says Immobilizer system is normal, look for other possible causes of the no-start condition.
^ If the message says Immobilizer system is not normal, do this
- Fix the problem using the displayed info, or
- Refer to the Body Electrical section of the appropriate service manual to troubleshoot the immobilizer system, or
- Online, enter the keyword IMMOBI, and select Immobilizer System Symptom Troubleshooting Information (Without Keyless Access
System) from the list.
Engine Intermittently Does Not Start
1. Ask the client if the immobilizer indicator flashed 10 times when the ignition key was turned to LOCK (0) after the engine would not start.
Does the immobilizer indicator flash 10 times when the ignition switch is turned to LOCK (0)
Yes - Go to step 2.
No - The immobilizer system may be OK. Refer to the Fuel and Emissions section of the appropriate service manual for additional
troubleshooting, or go online. If the client is not sure how the indicator worked, go to step 2.
2. Use the HDS to check for DTCs. Are there any DTCs
Yes - Use the appropriate service manual to troubleshoot the DTCs found, or go online.
No - Go to step 3.
3. Using the HDS, go to the Immobilizer Menu, and select Status Log. A list of status log numbers and occurrences is displayed.
4. Check the status log count. You'll see the list, the status log codes, and the number of occurrences in two columns.
^ If all the status codes show 0 occurrences, the immobilizer system is OK. Continue with normal troubleshooting.
^ If a status shows one or more occurrences, highlight that column, and an explanation of the code and a list of possible failures appears. Do
this
- Fix the problem using the displayed info, or
- Refer to the Body Electrical section of the appropriate service manual to troubleshoot the immobilizer system, or
- Online, enter keyword IMMOBI, and select Immobilizer System Symptom Troubleshooting Information (Without Keyless Access
System) from the list.
REPLACING THE IMMOBILIZER-KEYLESS CONTROL UNIT
If you replace the immobilizer-keyless control unit, you must rewrite it with the HDS for the engine to start.
Preparation
To replace the immobilizer-keyless control unit, you need these items
^ Replacement immobilizer-keyless control unit
^ All of the programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle
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^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
^ Refer to the appropriate Service Manual, or
^ Online, enter keywords IMMOBI UNIT REP, and select Immobilizer Keyless Control Unit from the list.
REPLACING THE PCM
If you replace the PCM, you must use the HDS to instruct the new PCM and the immobilizer keyless control unit to recognize each other's unique
serial code or the engine cannot start.
Preparation
To replace the PCM, you need these items
^ Replacement PCM
^ One programmed ignition key for the vehicle
^ PCM code
NOTE
If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
^ Refer to the appropriate Service Manual, or
^ Online, enter keywords PCM REP, and select PCM Replacement from the list.
REPLACING THE UNDER-DASH FUSERELAY BOX (MICU)
When you replace the under-dash fuserelay box (MICU), you must use the HDS to register the IMOES unit with the immobilizer-keyless control
unit; if you don't, the engine won't start.
Preparation
To replace the under-dash fuserelay box (MICU), you
need these items
^ Replacement under-dash fuserelay box (MICU)
^ One programmed ignition key for the vehicle
^ PCM code
NOTE
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If you cannot log in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM Code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
^ HDS with the latest software
NOTE
Make sure the market, the date, and the time on the HDS setup screen are correct. Select the F12 key in the upper right corner to get the
Set-up Details screen. Make sure Market is set to USA. Select the time display in the lower right corner to get the DateTime Properties
pop-up window. Make sure the date and time are correct. For details, refer to the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Setup Instructions listed
under Tool Information in ISIS.
Procedure
^ Refer to the appropriate Service Manual, or
^ Online, enter keywords DRIVER MICU, and select Driver's Under-dash FuseRelay Box (MICU) RemovalInstallation from the list.
