Charging System (4-cyl) Acura TSX II

Component Location Index & Drive Belt Routing

Charging System

Scheme 40

Symptom Troubleshooting Index

CHARGING SYSTEM SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Scheme 41

Charging System Indicator Circuit Troubleshooting

Note. Check for stored DTCs in the PGM-FI before troubleshooting the charging system indicator.

Scheme 42

Scheme 43

1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Does the charging system indicator come on? YES -Go to step 2. NO -Go to step 14 .
2. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 2, 000 RPM for 1 minute. Does the charging system indicator go off? YES -Charging system indicator circuit is OK. Go to the alternator and regulator circuit troubleshooting (see «ALTERNATOR AND REGULATOR CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__alternator-and-regulator-circuit-troubleshooting) ). NO -Go to step 3.
3. Do the gauge control module self-diagnostic function procedure (see «SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#gauges-4-cyl__self-diagnostic-function) ). Does the charging system indicator flash? YES -Go to step 4. NO -Replace the gauge control module (see «GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#gauges-4-cyl__gauge-control-module-replacement) ).
4. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
5. Disconnect the alternator 4P connector.
6. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). NOTE: The charging system indicator may come on and then go off. Does the charging system indicator go off? YES -Replace the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ), or repair the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ). NO -Go to step 7.
7. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
8. Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 on «GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl) ).
9. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
10. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECIWPCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__dlc-circuit-troubleshooting) ).
11. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
12. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (49P).
13. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B46 and body ground. ECM/PCM CONNECTOR B (49P) Is there continuity? YES -Repair a short to ground in the wire between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 3 and ECM/PCM connector terminal B46. NO -Update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see «ECM/PCM UPDATE»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__ecmpcm-update) ), or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM (see «SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl__substituting-the-ecmpcm) ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM/PCM, replace the original ECM/PCM (see «ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__ecmpcm-replacement) ).
14. Do the gauge control module self-diagnostic function procedure (see «SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#gauges-4-cyl__self-diagnostic-function) ). Does the charging system indicator flash? YES -Go to step 15. NO -Replace the gauge control module (see «GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#gauges-4-cyl__gauge-control-module-replacement) ).
15. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
16. Disconnect the alternator 4P connector.
17. Connect alternator 4P connector terminal No. 3 and body ground with a jumper wire. ALTERNATOR 4P CONNECTOR
18. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Does the charging system indicator come on? YES -Replace the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ) or repair the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ). NO -Go to step 19.
19. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
20. Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 on «GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl) ).
21. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
22. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECM/PCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__dlc-circuit-troubleshooting) ).
23. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
24. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (49P).
25. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B46 and alternator 4P connector terminal No. 3.

Scheme 44

Is there continuity?

YES -Update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see ECM/PCM UPDATE ), or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM (see SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM/PCM, replace the original ECM/PCM (see ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT ).

NO -Repair an open in the wire between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 3 and ECM/PCM connector terminal B46.

Alternator and Regulator Circuit Troubleshooting

Special Tools Required

Alternator, Regulator, Battery, and Starter Tester OTC3131*

*: Available through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program 888-424-6857.

Scheme 45

1. Make sure the battery connections are good, and the battery is sufficiently charged.
2. Connect the alternator; regulator, battery, and starter tester (OTC3131) to the battery as shown. NOTE: The probe is used for alternator testing.
3. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3, 000 RPM with no load (in neutral (IWT model) or P or N (A/T model)) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
4. Do the CHARGING SYSTEM TEST. Does the display indicate the voltage is within 13.5-15.1 V and the amperage is 87.5 A or more? YES -Go to step 5. NO -If the voltage is less than 13.5 V, go to alternator control circuit troubleshooting (see «ALTERNATOR CONTROL CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__alternator-control-circuit-troubleshooting) ). If the voltage is over 15.1 V and amperage is less than 87.5 A, replace the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ) or repair the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
5. Check the diode condition on the display.

Does the display indicate GOOD?

YES -The diode is OK. Troubleshooting is complete.

NO -If the display indicates BAD, replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ) or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL ), then retest.

Note. If the display indicates N/A, the diode pattern could not be diagnosed. Repeat the test. If N/A appears repeatedly, replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ).

Alternator Control Circuit Troubleshooting

Note. Do this troubleshooting if, in step 4 of the Alternator and Regulator Circuit Troubleshooting (see ALTERNATOR AND REGULATOR CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ), the battery voltage is less than 13.5 V.

Scheme 46

Scheme 47

1. Connect the HDS to the DLC (see step 2 on «GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl) ).
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II).
3. Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECM/PCM. If it does not communicate, troubleshoot the DLC circuit (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__dlc-circuit-troubleshooting) ).
4. Check for DTCs (see «GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl) ). If a DTC is present, diagnose and repair the cause before continuing with this test.
5. Disconnect the alternator 4P connector.
6. Start the engine, and turn on the headlights to high beam.
7. Measure the voltage between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2 and the positive terminal of the battery. Is there less than 1 V? YES -Go to step 11 . NO -Go to step 8.
8. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
9. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (49P).
10. Check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B45 and body ground. ECM/PCM CONNECTOR B (49P) Is there continuity? YES -Repair a short in the wire between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2 and ECM/PCM connector terminal B45. NO -Update the ECM/PCM if it does not have the latest software (see «ECM/PCM UPDATE»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__ecmpcm-update) ), or substitute a known-good ECM/PCM (see «SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#fuel-and-emissions-systems-4-cyl__substituting-the-ecmpcm) ), then recheck. If the symptom/indication goes away with a known-good ECM/PCM, replace the original ECM/PCM (see «ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/testing-diagnostics/#pgm-fi-system-4-cyl__ecmpcm-replacement) ).
11. Jump the SCS line with the HDS, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). NOTE: This step must be done to protect the ECM/PCM from damage.
12. Disconnect ECM/PCM connector B (49P).
13. Check for loose terminals and connectors, then check for continuity between ECM/PCM connector terminal B45 and alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2.

Scheme 48

Is there continuity?

YES -Replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ), or repair the alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL ).

NO -Repair an open in the wire between alternator 4P connector terminal No. 2 and ECM/PCM connector terminal B45.

Drive Belt Inspection

1. Inspect the belt for cracks or damage. If the belt is cracked or damaged, replace it (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A) is within the standard range (B) as shown. If it is out of the standard range, replace the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).

Scheme 49

Drive Belt Removal/Installation

Special Tools Required

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on YA9317* or equivalent, commercially available

*: Available through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program 888-424-6857.

Scheme 50

1. Move the auto-tensioner (A) using the belt tension release tool in the direction of the arrow to relieve tension from the drive belt, then remove the drive belt.
2. Install the new belt in the reverse order of removal.

Drive Belt Auto-Tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on YA9317* or equivalent, commercially available

*: Available through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program 888-424-6857.

Scheme 51

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Scheme 53

1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and make sure to turn the A/C switch OFF, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A). Start the engine, then check the position again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates a lot, replace the auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the tensioner pulley (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
4. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool in the direction of the arrow. Check that the auto-tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the tensioner does not move smoothly, or if you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
6. Remove the auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using two 8 mm bolts (B) and a vise (C) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
8. Attach the torque wrench (D) on the pulley bolt, and align it as shown.
9. Align the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (E) on the auto-tensioner base with Max. belt position mark (F) on the auto-tensioner arm by using the torque wrench, and measure the torque. If the torque value is out of specification, replace the auto-tensioner (see «DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).

Note. If the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer exceeds the Max. belt position mark, recheck the torque.

Auto-tensioner Spring Torque: 33.1 -40.5 N.m (3.38-4.13 kgf.m, 24.4-29.9 Lbf.ft)

Scheme 54

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Remove the idler pulley base (see «IDLER PULLEY BASE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
3. Remove the auto-tensioner.
4. Install the auto-tensioner, then tighten the bolt/nut in the numbered sequence shown.
5. Install the idler pulley base (see «IDLER PULLEY BASE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
6. Install the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).

Scheme 55

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Remove the idler pulley base (see «IDLER PULLEY BASE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
3. Remove the tensioner pulley.
4. Install the tensioner pulley in the reverse order of removal.

Scheme 56

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Remove the idler pulley base.
3. Install the idler pulley base in the reverse order of removal.

Scheme 57

1. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
2. Remove the idler pulley.
3. Install the idler pulley in the reverse order of removal.

Scheme 58

1. Do the battery terminal disconnection procedure (see «BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/body-electrical/#battery-4-cyl) ).
2. Remove the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
3. Remove the two bolts securing the alternator.
4. Disconnect the alternator connector (A) and the positive alternator cable (B), and remove the harness clamp (C), then remove the alternator.

Scheme 59

Scheme 60

Scheme 61

1. Install the alternator, then connect the alternator connector (A) and the positive alternator cable (B), and install the harness clamp (C). Make sure the crimped side of the ring terminal faces away from the alternator when you connect it.
2. Tighten the two bolts securing the alternator.
3. Install the drive belt (see «DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__drive-belt-removalinstallation) ).
4. Do the battery terminal reconnection procedure (see «BATTERY TERMINAL DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/body-electrical/#battery-4-cyl) ).

Scheme 62

Special Tools Required

1. Driver Handle, 15 x 135L 07749-0010000
2. Bearing Driver Attachment, 42 x 47 mm 07746-0010300

Note. Refer to the Exploded View if needed during this procedure.

Scheme 63

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Scheme 75

1. Test the alternator and regulator before you remove them (see «ALTERNATOR AND REGULATOR CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl__alternator-and-regulator-circuit-troubleshooting) ).
2. Remove the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).
3. If the front bearing needs replacing, remove the pulley locknut with a 10 mm wrench (A) and a 22 mm wrench (B). If necessary, use an impact wrench.
4. Remove the harness stay and the three flange nuts from the alternator.
5. Remove the end cover (A).
6. Remove the brush holder assembly (A).
7. Remove the four through bolts, then remove the rear housing assembly (A) and the washer (B).
8. If you are not replacing the front bearing, go to step 13 . Remove the rotor from the drive-end housing.
9. Inspect the rotor shaft for scoring, and inspect the bearing journal surface in the drive-end housing for seizure marks: If the rotor is damaged, replace the rotor assembly. If the rotor is OK, go to step 10.
10. Remove the front bearing retainer.
11. Drive out the front bearing with a brass drift and a hammer.
12. Install a new front bearing in the driver-end housing with a hammer, the driver handle, 15 x 135L, and the bearing driver attachment, 42 x 47 mm. Alternator Brush Inspection
13. Measure the length of both brushes (A) with a vernier caliper (B): If either brush is shorter than the service limit, replace the brush holder assembly. If the brush length is OK, go to step 14. Alternator Brush Length Standard (New): 10.5 mm (0.413 in) Service Limit: 1.5 mm (0.059 in) Rotor Slip Ring Test
14. Check for continuity between the slip rings (A): If there is continuity, go to step 15. If there is no continuity, replace the rotor assembly.
15. Check for continuity between each slip ring and the rotor (B) and the rotor shaft (C): If there is no continuity, go to step 16. If there is continuity, replace the rotor assembly.
16. If you removed the pulley, put the rotor in the drive-end housing, then torque its locknut to 110 N.m (11.2kgf.m, 81 Lbf.ft).
17. Remove any grease or oil from the slip rings.
18. Put the rear housing assembly and the drive-end housing/rotor assembly together, and tighten the four through bolts.
19. Push the brushes (A) in, then insert a pin or drill bit (B) (about 1.6 mm (1/16 in) diameter) to hold them there.
20. Install the brush holder assembly, and pull out the pin or drill bit.
21. Install the end cover.
22. After assembling the alternator, turn the pulley by hand to make sure the rotor turns smoothly and without noise.
23. Install the alternator (see «ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tsx/ii-2008-2014/remont/charging-system/#charging-system-4-cyl) ).

See also:
• GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
• BATTERY TEST
• SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING
• SELF-DIAGNOSTIC FUNCTION
• GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT
• DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING
• ECM/PCM UPDATE
• SUBSTITUTING THE ECM/PCM
• ECM/PCM REPLACEMENT
• CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING
• DRIVE BELT INSPECTION
• DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER INSPECTION
• ALTERNATOR AND REGULATOR CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING
• DRIVE BELT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
• ALTERNATOR CONTROL CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING