PCM replacement instructions please?

2010 HONDA ACCORD
31,900 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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NEIL2002CIVIC
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Hi, is there a way to replace the PCM without using the Honda dealership?
Sep 3, 2017 at 8:41 PM
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DANNY L
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Hello, I'm Danny.

Here is the information you requested. To answer your question. no, a PCM will have to be refurbished or installed as new to fix any pcm related problems which you can get by searching google. Upon replacement a few different relearn procedures will need to be performed to complete the repair. I've attached picture steps below for pcm replacement and the relearn procedures for your Honda. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Apr 27, 2021 at 12:47 AM
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CHUNKY2120
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i have 2007 honda accord.i need to replace my ecm/pcm due to water damage.if i buy a used one from ebay with the same exact part number will the dealership be able to program it to my car/keys?if so how much is thar service?
May 11, 2021 at 6:22 PM (Merged)
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KASEKENNY
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Yes you can however, the dealer or rebuilder needs the vehicle with the original PCM installed first. They need to run a procedure with the scan tool that pulls the info out of it so that it can install it in the replacement. It states this process in the info below at the beginning. Please run through this material and let us know if you have questions. Thanks
May 11, 2021 at 6:22 PM (Merged)
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STEVETHEMAN56
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Yes there was a new computer installed. In my car v6. PCM unit the computer failed burnt up. the mechanic said there was a short caused by the charcoal canister plug in the fuse blew out and the computer burnt up. sounds weird they replaced computer with refurbished one. car drives like brand new. they have to order the canister part still. this whole thing started in the emissions system not sure computer was working right. it said I needed a new catalytic converter and I replaced it when a computer. starts sending crazy codes not sure of anything but I know it would not hurt to get it okay. that’s my story would like some information on replacing the PCM.
May 11, 2021 at 6:27 PM (Merged)
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ASEMASTER6371
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Here is the instructions on how to replace the PCM in the diagrams below. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.
May 11, 2021 at 6:27 PM (Merged)
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HUMMINGBIRD132
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A week ago, the "check engine" light came on. Bringing the Accord to my mechanic, he - per the computer read out - replaced the (4) O2 sensors. Later in the day of the repair, the "Check Engine" light came back on. I brought it back to the same mechanic. He indicated that the computer's read out now indicated to replace the computer itself.
He conclude that I needed to bring it to the Honda dealer and that there may be a software bug in the computer and, if so, that there could be a recall. Based on the VIN, the Honda site showed no recall other than a 7 year warranty extention covering the transmission ... is it common to replace the computer? if it's a computer problem, is it possible that just a "reboot" is required?
May 11, 2021 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
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HONDA TECH 1818
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Specific driving conditions may cause the ECM/PCM to incorrectly interpret sensor inputs, there's a updated ECM and it will correct the problem. You will need to have the immobilizer code transfer to the new ECM by a rebuilder.
May 11, 2021 at 6:29 PM (Merged)
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FBROWN0324
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Not looking for DLC, Gauge Cluster connector etc... Looking for PCM itself. Was told to look under right kick panel or passenger seat. Not behind kick panel.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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JDL
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I don't mean to butt-in. I looked at two databases and they showed the ecm/pcm is behind center of dash, forward of center console. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know what you find.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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FBROWN0324
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under dash. I did see something on internet about that possibility. I'll let you know, thanks again!
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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CHIBINAM
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I need to replace the main computer, but do not know exactly where to look for it. I heard it is under the glove compartment, but I would not know it if I saw it. Thanks for any help.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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BMRFIXIT
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Engine control module is located behind center of dash forward on the floor check the picture.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/99387_Graphic2_124.jpg

ECM/PCM Replacement ECM/PCM is part of immobilizer system. Replacement ECM/PCM must have immobilizer code rewritten, using Honda PGM Tester. To perform rewrite procedure requires the vehicle, all master keys, all valet keys and a Honda PGM Tester with an immobilizer program card. Any key not learned during rewrite will not start vehicle.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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TORCUATO87
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just replace ecu on my 99 accord but car wont star what i need to do now? i need to program the new ecu? how?
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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KHLOW2008
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Hi torcuato87,

ACCORD, CR-V, ODYSSEY, PASSPORT & PRELUDE

Known-Good ECM/PCM Substitution
On models equipped with engine immobilizer system, acquire key cut from non-immobilizer key blank. Remove ECM/PCM from test vehicle. Install known-good ECM/PCM from donor vehicle into test vehicle. Tape donor vehicle's ignition key head-to-head to test vehicles temporary key. ECM/PCM will recognize code from donor vehicle's key and allow test vehicle to be started.

ECM/PCM is part of immobilizer system. Replacement ECM/PCM must have immobilizer code rewritten, using Honda PGM Tester. To perform rewrite procedure requires the vehicle, all master keys, all valet keys and a Honda PGM Tester with an immobilizer program card. Any key not learned during rewrite will not start vehicle. Follow Honda PGM Tester instructions.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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TONIDRICH
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Where is the ecu located?
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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KHLOW2008
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Hi tonidrich, Behind center of dash, forward of floor console, below radio. Check out the diagrams below


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/192750_DRLControlUnit01Accord_3.jpg

Check out the diagrams (Below) Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed. Cheers
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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RICHCA
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My engine light came on and the dealer reports that I need a new computer (brain) for the vehicle. They would like $1,200 for the work. I can purchase the same brand new ECU, through an authorized Honda Parts dealer for $640. Is this an item I can change myself or does a mechanic have to replace it. My understanding is that the computer can be found under the passengers floor/carpet and changed out. Is there anything else that would need to be done becides just changing the part?
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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COOTERZ
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[quote:8b9fe8175f="richca"]Computer problem
1998 Honda Accord 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 83000 miles
----------------------------------------------------------------
My engine light came on and the dealer reports that I need a new computer (brain) for the vehicle. They would like $1,200 for the work. I can purchase the same brand new ECU, through an authorized Honda Parts dealer for $640. Is this an item I can change myself or does a mechanic have to replace it. My understanding is that the computer can be found under the passengers floor/carpet and changed out. Is there anything else that would need to be done becides just changing the part?[/quote:8b9fe8175f]

Its behind the radio area. get on the ground and pull back the carpet and you will see it. Start at the driver side and then go to the passenger side. Just buy a refurbished and swap it. I spoke to my local honda dealer and they knew of a guy.
May 11, 2021 at 6:32 PM (Merged)
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RICHCA
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That is correct but once you replace it the car will not start. You need to have it programmed to your car's security system...the keys will not work. Your honda guy does not know what he is talking about. I bought a brand new one for $600 online from Honda, changed it and the labor fee at the dealer was $50. Not worth doing it yourself!


[quote:f9e19e682b="cooterz"][quote:f9e19e682b="richca"]Computer problem
1998 Honda Accord 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 83000 miles
----------------------------------------------------------------
My engine light came on and the dealer reports that I need a new computer (brain) for the vehicle. They would like $1,200 for the work. I can purchase the same brand new ECU, through an authorized Honda Parts dealer for $640. Is this an item I can change myself or does a mechanic have to replace it. My understanding is that the computer can be found under the passengers floor/carpet and changed out. Is there anything else that would need to be done becides just changing the part?[/quote:f9e19e682b]

Its behind the radio area. get on the ground and pull back the carpet and you will see it. Start at the driver side and then go to the passenger side. Just buy a refurbished and swap it. I spoke to my local honda dealer and they knew of a guy.[/quote:f9e19e682b]
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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DEETRIMBLE
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What is the price range to get the car computer fixed on a Honda accord? And do you have to buy it new or can i get it from a pick a parts type of place?
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

As far as getting one from a used vehicle, it has to be the exact same part number. Also, which specific computer are you referring to? If it is the ECM (engine control module) take a look at the pic below. I attached parts and labor. Note that the part price is retail from a dealer, so the prices are extremely high. However, labor shows .5 hour (30 minutes).

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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DEETRIMBLE
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Thank you. I need to find out if it is the ECM. Those parts are very high. I would definately want to try to get it from used vehicle.
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You are very welcome. If it is the ECM, check online. There are places that sell them for much less than a dealership. Just make sure that if you do get one online, you have a guarantee. There are some parts that are not worth buying.

Please feel free to let me know if you need help or have other questions. I'll be here.

Take care,
Joe
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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DEETRIMBLE
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Thank you for your assistance with this Joe. And I will let you know if I have any more questions as well.
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Happy to help.

Take care,
Joe
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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LONDOG
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What numbers on the ECU have to match to work?
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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MHPAUTOS
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the basic part number is the most important one, you may need to contact the dealer spare parts as factory up grades may alter that part number. the parts department should be able to supply suitable reference number that will work. But if you get a second hand unit, you still may have to get it re flashed, but regardless it still should work to get you mobile.
May 11, 2021 at 6:33 PM (Merged)
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MARKMUNDY
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Is the PCM and ECU the same thing?where is the PCM located on 1997 Honda accord?Code P0715 comes up.Mainshaft speed sensor checks out ok(400-600 ohms).Next step is check connector at PCM.Transmission shifts hard or irraticly after it warms up.
May 11, 2021 at 6:34 PM (Merged)
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HMAC300
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DTC P0715 (FLASH CODE 15) doesn't always mean an electrical problem in mainshaft speed sensor or circuit; this DTC can also be caused by a mechanical problem in transaxle.. ecm, ecu and pcm are all about the same see pic for location
May 11, 2021 at 6:34 PM (Merged)
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

No to used. You have about a 50% chance of having it programmed. If it does not take, you would be out all that money.

You need to get the number off the old ECM. Go to rockauto.com and look on their site. They offer the ECM based on the number and it is already programmed to run.

Roy

May 12, 2021 at 5:25 AM