How do I clear a DTC code (15-3) in my 2000 TL?

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Old 07-31-2010, 09:54 PM
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Question How do I clear a DTC code (15-3) in my 2000 TL?

I did the DIY procedure in my 2000 TL to reset the SRS light, using a paper clip, after replacing the OPDS unit (covered under warranty for 10 years, but I just ran over by a few days).

Now my SRS light does not go away, and the TSB describing the warranty extension says:

"If the indicator blinks twice and then stays on, the OPDS is initialized, but SRS DTCs need to be cleared"

I know my DTC code is 15-3 because I'd paid the Acura dealer to diagnose the problem.

How do I clear the DTC?

Thanks!
Old 08-01-2010, 12:13 AM
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they diagnosed a code and didnt clear it for you?
go back and speak with the service manager about the problem
Old 08-02-2010, 11:28 AM
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Hi cemptor :

Firstly, I don't think "15-3" is a valid DTC code. The code should look something like "P1459" so I'm not surprised they didn't (or couldn't) decode it for you. I searched the entire official Acura workshop manual and came up empty. Get it to another place and get them to read the code. If you're in the US, many DIY parts stores will do it for free.

Also, there is a simple way of resetting the DTC's, simply remove the positive terminal of the battery, count to ten and then re-connect it. I know this is the "brute force" way to do it but it does work if you don't have a code reader. I've done this many many times but keep in mind, it will not cure the underlying problem and don't be surprised if the light come on again after a few days....or possibly even immediately. The important goal here is the get the DTC code to help diagnose the problem.

Please note, you will need your security code to reactivate the radio after the reset plus the clock will have to be adjusted.

Good luck !

smartypants
Old 08-03-2010, 07:04 PM
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Thanks! I will try the brute force method, and see if it comes back. The underlying problem is supposed to be the OPDS unit, which I replaced before attempting to reset the SRS light (It's under a 10 year warranty, but since I was past the warranty by 4 days, the dealer refused to fix it...)

The Warranty extension TSB describes 15-3 as one of the DTCs. So I guess you're right its not a valid code. Is it the number of a component?
Old 08-03-2010, 08:18 PM
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Originally Posted by smartypants
Hi cemptor :

Firstly, I don't think "15-3" is a valid DTC code. The code should look something like "P1459" so I'm not surprised they didn't (or couldn't) decode it for you. I searched the entire official Acura workshop manual and came up empty. Get it to another place and get them to read the code. If you're in the US, many DIY parts stores will do it for free.

Also, there is a simple way of resetting the DTC's, simply remove the positive terminal of the battery, count to ten and then re-connect it. I know this is the "brute force" way to do it but it does work if you don't have a code reader. I've done this many many times but keep in mind, it will not cure the underlying problem and don't be surprised if the light come on again after a few days....or possibly even immediately. The important goal here is the get the DTC code to help diagnose the problem.

Please note, you will need your security code to reactivate the radio after the reset plus the clock will have to be adjusted.

Good luck !

smartypants
15-3 is a valid code. The P#### codes are for the CEL. The SRS and TCS systems use different codes in a different format. The scan tools at the auto parts stores will not be able to read them. You need a scan tool designed to scan Hondas and Acuras.
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Old 08-03-2010, 08:37 PM
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Here is the actual procedure to clear the DTC memory. Yes, 15-3 is the code for "Faulty OPDS Sensor".


Last edited by Severin; 08-03-2010 at 08:39 PM.
Old 08-03-2010, 09:21 PM
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Thanks. Any idea where I can buy the SCS Connector? I will go to the acura dealer if not available elsewhere. I assume it's not very expensive
Old 08-03-2010, 09:23 PM
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Originally Posted by cemptor
Thanks. Any idea where I can buy the SCS Connector? I will go to the acura dealer if not available elsewhere. I assume it's not very expensive
Make your own with a piece of wire. All it is is a wire loop.
Old 08-04-2010, 06:32 AM
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From this site in this helpful PDF:

"2. Connect the SCS service connector (Honda 07PAZ-001100) to the yellow 2-pin MES
connector. A common jumper wire can also be used, as long as you maintain good
contact between the terminals."

http://buy1.snapon.com/products/diag...ndaTesting.pdf
Old 08-04-2010, 12:52 PM
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I just used a piece of speaker wire, with the ends stripped. I would follow the procedure but instead of having to unplug and plug back in just connect/touch the ends and remove as needed
Old 08-04-2010, 08:50 PM
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Thanks all.

I did try it with a bent paper clip, and was able to remove and connect it within the 4 second time limit, and did not succeed in removing the SRS light. Does that mean I have an underlying problem that hasn't been solved yet? i replaced the OPDS unit. Might it be the OPDS sensor (in the seat cushion, and probably more lengthy process to replace)

The reason I asked the question was that the Service Bulletin above says "Do not use a jumper wire".
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