Engine Controls - Engine Ping On Hard Acceleration

09-041

October 22, 2011

Applies To:
2009 TSX - ALL
2010 TSX L4 - From VIN JH4CU2...AC000001 thru JH4CU2...AC009053

Engine Pings During Moderate to Heavy Acceleration

(Supercedes 09-041, dated July 21, 2011, to revise the information marked by the asterisks).

REVISION SUMMARY

*Under WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION, a labor operation number was changed.

SYMPTOM

The engine pings during moderate to heavy acceleration.

PROBABLE CAUSE

The PCM software, combined with knock sensor sensitivity, may not adjust the ignition timing as expected.

NOTE:
This condition does not cause internal engine damage. Some engine ping is a desired characteristic for optimal performance and fuel economy.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

*Replace the knock sensor, then update the PGM-FI software. If you're working on a vehicle with A/T, also update the A/T software.*

NOTE:
On vehicles with A/T, you must update the A/T software to complete the repair.

PARTS INFORMATION

Knock Sensor: P/N 30530-RL5-A01

Intake Manifold Gasket (four required):
P/N 17115-R40-A01

REQUIRED MATERIALS

Acura Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2
(One gallon repairs about 20 vehicles):
P/N 0L999-9001

SOFTWARE INFORMATION

HDS Software Version:
2.019.009 (August 2009) (gray) or later.

Control Module (CM) Update:
Application Version V6.18.06 or later.
Database Update 05-AUG-2009 or later.

NOTE:
To avoid an incorrect repair that would not be covered under warranty, use the software version listed above or a later version.





The updated PGM-FI software program IDs and P/Ns are shown below. If these or a later program IDs are the current ones displayed during the update, the software for this service bulletin is already installed.





WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Replace the knock sensor:

^ Refer to page 11-220 of the 2009-2010 TSX Service Manual, or

^ Online, enter keyword KNOCK, and select Knock Sensor Replacement from the list.

NOTE:

^ Knock sensor replacement requires intake manifold removal.

- In step 6 of Removal, the bracket does not need to be removed; just remove the bracket lower bolt.

- In step 10 of Removal, the PCV hose does not need to be disconnected.

- In step 13 of Installation, radiator refilling and cooling system bleeding is not needed; just top-off the cooling system reservoir with about 6 ounces of coolant.

*2. Update the PGM-FI software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-026, Updating Control Units/Modules.*

NOTE:
On some 2009 TSXs with Tech Package (VINs JH4CU2...9C000001 thru JH4CU2...9C033097), you must disconnect the AcuraLink control unit 5P update connector before updating the PCM. For more information, including additional warranty flat rate time, refer to Service Bulletin 09-009, Disconnect the AcuraLink Update Connector Before Updating the PCM.

*3. A/T models only: Update the A/T software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-026.*





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