27. Repeat steps 13 through 19.***Acura RL V6-3.7L Technical Service Bulletin # 09-013 Date: 130222
Antitheft - Immobilizer System (Type 5) Information
09-013
February 22, 2013
Applies To:
2005-12 RL - ALL
Immobilizer System (Type 5)
(Supersedes 09-013, dated March 20, 2009, see REVISION SUMMARY)
REVISION SUMMARY
This service bulletin has been revised extensively.
American Honda recommends that you review the entire bulletin.
BACKGROUND
All 2005-12 RLs have a Type 5 immobilizer system that disables the vehicle unless a programmed ignition key is used. The Type 5 system is
different than previous systems in that the transponder ID code in the key is a rolling-type code instead of a fixed code. In this service bulletin, a
programmed ignition key refers to a transponder-type key 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 it does not start.
This service bulletin covers these subjects:
^ Immobilizer system components
^ Adding or replacing programmed ignition keys
^ Clearing transponder codes of lost programmed ignition keys
^ Starting the engine without a programmed ignition key
^ Replacing the immobilizer control unit-receiver
^ Replacing the keyless access control unit
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^ Replacing the PCM
^ Replacing the IMOES unit
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
The immobilizer system includes these components:
^ Immobilizer system keys
^ Immobilizer indicator
^ Immobilizer control unit-receiver
^ Keyless access control unit
^ PCM
^ IMOES Unit
Immobilizer System Keys
The vehicle comes with two built-in keys and two keyless remotes.
Each key and valet key has a transponder in its grip that output a rolling-type code (set by the immobilizer control unit-receiver) when you insert the
key into the ignition switch. The immobilizer system uses this code to determine whether to start the engine.
When you need to cut a new key, use the appropriate tool from the Acura Tool and Equipment Program. Call or on the Interactive Network (iN),
click on Service > Quick Links > Tool and Equipment Program.
NOTE:
Because of the rolling code characteristics of the Type 5 immobilizer system, you cannot use the Ilco Immobilizer Key Code Duplicator or the
Ilco programmable (T5) key blanks with this system.
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 comes on for 2 seconds and then goes off. When you turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), the indicator blinks
for 5 seconds and then goes off.
If you insert a non programmed ignition key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON (II), the indicator comes on for 2 seconds and then
starts to blink. The indicator keeps blinking until you turn the switch to LOCK (0). If you try to start the engine with a non programmed ignition key,
the engine cranks, but it does not start.
Immobilizer Control Unit-Receiver
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The immobilizer control unit-receiver is inside the bezel around the ignition switch. 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 control
unit-receiver, which checks the code against the codes stored in its memory. If the codes match, the immobilizer control unit-receiver sends a unique
serial code to the PCM. But if the transponder ID code does not match, no serial code is sent, and the vehicle won't start.
Keyless Access System
The keyless access system consists of the keyless access control unit, the ignition switch control unit, the door outer handle touch sensor, the LF (low
frequency) antennas, the RF (radio frequency) units, the keyless access indicator, the keyless buzzer, and the remote. The function of the system is to
allow the driver keyless entry into the vehicle along with starting the engine without an ignition key.
PCM
The PCM is an integral part of the immobilizer system. When the PCM receives the unique serial code from the immobilizer control unit-receiver, it
communicates with the immobilizer control unit-receiver by sending back its own unique serial code. If the serial codes are mutually recognized
during this communication process, the PCM energizes the fuel supply system so the engine can start.
IMOES unit
When using the keyless remote, or the transponder key, the remote sends a signal to the keyless access control unit, the immobilizer control unit, or
the unit- receiver if a key is used. The control unit then sends a code signal to the IMOES unit. If the IMOES unit determines that the correct signal
is being used, the fuel supply system is enabled.
ADDING OR REPLACING PROGRAMMED IGNITION KEYS
Vehicles come with three programmed ignition keys. The immobilizer control unit-receiver 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 or to add multiple keys.
Adding a Key
Use the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) with Acura key blanks to add a key. The HDS rewrites the immobilizer control unit-receiver, storing the
transponder code of the new key in the memory of the immobilizer control unit-receiver.
Preparation
NOTE:
Refer to the parts catalog for the P/Ns, and search by VIN for the correct parts.
To add a key with the HDS, you need these items:
^ Built-in key blank
^ One programmed built-in ignition key for the vehicle
^ Key code for the vehicle (if cutting by code)
^ Suitable key cutting tool
^ HDS with the latest software
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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 Date/Time 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 in to the iN (Interactive Network) screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry
in the iN.
Procedure
1. Use an appropriate key blank and a suitable key cutting tool.
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.
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 Mode Menu screen, select Add and Delete Keys.
8. From the Add and Delete Keys screen, select Add 1 Key.
9. From the Add 1 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. The HDS rewrites the immobilizer control unit-receiver, storing the transponder codes of
the new keys in the memory of the immobilizer control unit-receiver.
Preparation
NOTE:
Refer to the parts catalog for the P/Ns, and search by VIN for the correct parts.
To add multiple keys with the HDS, you need these items:
^ Built-in key blank
^ All the programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle
^ Key code for the vehicle (if cutting by code)
^ Suitable key cutting tool
^ 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 Date/Time 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 in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
Procedure
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NOTE:
Make sure you change keys when prompted by the HDS.
1. Use the appropriate key blanks and a suitable key cutting tool.
2. Gather up all of the remaining 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.
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 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 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.
Replacing All Programmed Ignition Keys
If no programmed ignition keys are available, you need to replace the ignition keys and rewrite the immobilizer control unit-receiver with the HDS.
The HDS clears all transponder codes from the memory of the immobilizer control unit-receiver and stores the transponder codes of the replacement
ignition keys.
Preparation
NOTE:
Refer to the parts catalog for the P/Ns, and search by VIN for the correct parts.
To replace all keys, you need these items:
^ Built-in key blanks
^ Suitable key cutting tool
^ Key code 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 Date/Time 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 in to 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. Use the appropriate key blanks and a suitable key cutting tool.
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.
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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 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 control unit-receiver with the HDS to
prevent the lost keys from starting the engine. The HDS clears the transponder codes from the memory of the immobilizer control unit-receiver 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 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 Date/Time 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 in to 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.
4. At the screen prompts, verify the VIN and enter 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 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 your client is stranded because he or she has no programmed ignition keys, or a part of the immobilizer system has failed, you can still start the
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engine using a properly cut key blank and the five-digit Immobilizer Brake Code.
This procedure is suited for situations where your stranded client either plans to drive the vehicle directly to an Acura dealership for immobilizer
system repair, or he or she has the other programmed ignition keys at home and plans to drive there with no stops on the way.
If your client has lost the programmed ignition key but has additional programmed ignition keys at home, advise him or her to schedule an
appointment to have the immobilizer control unit-receiver rewritten for the remaining ignition keys; this way the transponder codes of the lost keys
are cleared from the immobilizer control unit-receiver's memory. Refer to CLEARING TRANSPONDER CODES OF LOST PROGRAMMED
IGNITION KEYS.
If your client has lost all of the programmed ignition keys, he or she will need to have them replaced and have the immobilizer control unit-receiver
rewritten. Refer to Replacing All Keys under ADDING OR REPLACING ALL PROGRAMMED IGNITION KEYS.
Preparation
NOTE:
Refer to the parts catalog for the P/Ns, and search by VIN for the correct parts.
To start the engine without a programmed ignition key, you need these items:
^ Acura built-in key blank (Refer to the parts catalog for P/Ns, and search by VIN)
^ Vehicle's key code for cutting a new ignition key
^ Suitable key cutting tool
^ Immobilizer Brake Code (This five-digit code is available on the iN Immobilizer Code Inquiry.)
Procedure
1. Use the appropriate key blanks and a suitable key cutting tool.
2. Release the parking brake.
3. Insert the newly cut ignition 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 that number of times within 30 seconds.
For example, if the first digit is four, set and release the parking brake four times.
6. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). This enters the first digit into the PCM.
7. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), set and release the parking brake the appropriate number of times, and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0)
to enter the second, third, fourth, and fifth digits.
NOTE:
When you turn the ignition switch to ON (II), the immobilizer indicator stays on. The indicator stays on even when the ignition switch is
turned to LOCK (0).
8. After you enter the fifth digit and turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), the immobilizer indicator blinks three times and then goes off. You can
now start the engine with the temporary key.
NOTE:
This procedure is only a temporary fix. When you start the engine with the temporary key, the immobilizer indicator comes on and stays on
while the engine is running. And when you turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), the indicator does not blink as it normally would.
9. Start the engine within 10 minutes or you must repeat steps 2 thru 9.
REPLACING THE IMMOBILIZER CONTROL UNIT - RECEIVER
If you replace the immobilizer control unit-receiver, you must rewrite it with the HDS or the engine cannot start.
Preparation
To replace the immobilizer control unit-receiver, you need these items:
^ Replacement immobilizer control unit-receiver
^ All of the programmed ignition keys (master and valet) for the vehicle
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^ 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 Date/Time 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 in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
Procedure
Replace the immobilizer-keyless control/unit receiver.
Online, enter keyword IMMOBI, and select Immobilizer-Keyless Control Unit-Receiver Replacement from the list.
REPLACING THE KEYLESS ACCESS CONTROL UNIT
AcuraLink can be used to easily check for B-CAN line failure(s). Go online for troubleshooting tips.
Preparation
To replace the Keyless Access Control Unit, you need these items:
^ Replacement Keyless Access Control Unit
^ HDS with the latest software
Procedure
1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
2. Remove the driver's dashboard undercover (See the service manual online).
3. Disconnect the connectors from the keyless access control unit.
4. Install the new control unit in the reverse order of removal.
5. To register and reprogram the unit, go to Keyless Access System and Immobilizer System Remote Registration and Reprogramming on ISIS.
REPLACING THE PCM
If you replace the PCM, you must use the HDS to instruct the new PCM and the immobilizer control unit-receiver to recognize each other's unique
serial code or the engine cannot start.
Preparation
To replace the PCM, you need these items:
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^ Replacement PCM
^ One programmed ignition key 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 Date/Time 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 in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
Procedure
Replace the PCM. Online, enter keywords PCM REP and select PCM Replacement from the list.
REPLACING THE IMOES UNIT
To replace the IMOES unit, you must use the HDS to instruct the new IMOES unit and the immobilizer control unit-receiver to recognize each
other's unique serial code or the engine cannot start.
IMOES Unit Location:
See the applicable service manual, or go online.
Preparation
To replace the IMOES unit, you need these items:
^ Replacement IMOES unit
^ One programmed ignition key 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 Date/Time 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 in to the iN screen on the HDS, you must retrieve the PCM code from the Immobilizer Code Inquiry in the iN.
Procedure
Replace the IMOES unit. Online, enter keywords IMOES REP, and select Imoes Unit Test/Replacement from the list.
