Acura TSX / Honda Accord CL. Manual - part 923

Fig. 6: Locating The Data Link Connector (DLC) 

If the D indicator and the MIL come on at the same time, or if a driveability problem is suspected, follow this 
procedure:  

1. Connect the HDS to the DLC. (See the HDS user's manual for specific instructions.)  

2. Turn the ignition switch ON (II), select SCS mode, then observe the D indicator in the gauge assembly. 

Code 1 through 9 are indicated by individual short blinks. Code 10 and above are indicated by a series of 
long and short blinks. One long blink equals 10 short blinks. Add the long and short blinks together to 
determine the code. 

 

2004 Acura TSX 

2004 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Diagnosis - MCTA 5-Speed

  

 

Fig. 7: Example: DTC 1-1 

Fig. 8: Example: DTC 15-5 

3. Record all fuel and emissions DTCs and A/T DTCs.  

4. If there is a fuel and emissions DTC, first check the fuel and emissions system as indicated by the DTC 

(except DTC 70, DTC 70 means there is one or more A/T DTCs, and no problems were detected in the 
fuel and emissions circuit of the PCM).  

5. Clear the DTC and data.  

6. Drive the vehicle for several minutes under the same conditions as those indicated by the freeze data, and 

then recheck for DTC. If the A/T DTC returns, go to the DTC Troubleshooting Index. If the DTC does 
not return, there was an intermittent problem within the circuit. Make sure all pins and terminals in the 
circuit are tight.  

CLEAR A/T DTCS & PCM RESET PROCEDURES 

1. Connect the HDS to the DLC.  

2. Turn the ignition switch ON (II).  

3. Clear the DTC(s) on the HDS screen.  

HOW TO TROUBLESHOOT CIRCUITS AT THE PCM 

 

2004 Acura TSX 

2004 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Diagnosis - MCTA 5-Speed

  

 

Special Tools Required: Backprobe set 07SAZ-001000A (two required)

1. Pull back the carpet, and remove the passenger's center lower cover (see PASSENGER'S 

DASHBOARD LOWER COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).  

2. Inspect the circuit on the PCM, according to the DTC troubleshooting, with the special tools and a digital 

multimeter.  

3. Connect the backprobe adapters (A) to the stacking patch cords (B), and connect the cords to a multimeter 

(C). 

Fig. 9: Connecting The Backprobe Adapters To The Stacking Patch Cords & Connecting The 

 

2004 Acura TSX 

2004 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Diagnosis - MCTA 5-Speed

  

 

Cords To A Multimeter 

4. Using the wire insulation as a guide for the contoured tip of the backprobe adapter, gently slide the tip 

into the connector from the wire side until it touches the end of the wire terminal.  

5. If you cannot get to the wire side of the connector or the wire side is sealed, disconnect the connector and 

use the tester probe to probe the connectors from the terminal side. Do not force the probe into the 
connector.  

PCM UPDATING & SUBSTITUTION FOR TESTING 

Special Tools Required: Honda Interface Module (HIM) EQS05A35570 

Use this procedure when you have to substitute a known-good PCM in a troubleshooting procedure. Update the 
PCM only if the PCM does not already have the latest software loaded. 

Do not turn the ignition switch OFF while updating the PCM. If you turn the ignition switch OFF, the PCM can 
be damaged. 

How to Update the PCM 

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Do not start the engine.  

2. Connect the Honda interface module (HIM) to the DLC (A) located under the left end of the dash. 

NOTE:

z

To ensure the latest program is installed, update a PCM whenever the PCM 
is substituted or replaced.  

z

You cannot update a PCM with the program it already has. It will only 
accept a new program.  

z

Before you update the PCM, make sure the vehicle's battery is fully 
charged.  

z

To prevent PCM damage, do not operate any electrical system; audio 
system, brakes, air conditioning, power windows, moonroof, and door 
locks, during the update.  

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If you need to diagnose the Honda interface module (HIM) because the 
HIM's red (#3) light came on or was flashing during the update, leave the 
ignition switch in the ON (II) position when you disconnect the HIM from 
the DLC. This will prevent PCM damage.  

 

2004 Acura TSX 

2004 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Diagnosis - MCTA 5-Speed