Migals

So I failed inspection in my 161k miles 03 Type S. I have the CEL on as well as the ABS and Traction Control indicators lit on the dash. These have been lit for months and I can confirm that neither my traction control nor ABS actually work...

Symptoms:
Horrible Fuel Consumption (17-18 mpg calculated)
Rough Idle (Sometimes stalls unless I give it gas)
CEL
Fuel smell from outside the car
P1457 and P0141 codes

After doing some research I have learned that the charcoal canister solenoid may need to be replaced. Looks like an easy fix so I was going to order the canister and a new solenoid (maybe a new gas cap as well just to rule that out). I have also learned that this problem can cause the PCM to go bad? I see some replacement PCMs on ebay for around 70 dollars but I am worried that they aren't the correct part. Are these different at all for a base model vs type-s? Will I need to get it programmed to my key? The P0141 code appears to be O2 sensor related and I plan on taking this to a muffler shop as I just had my cat replaced last year (stolen) and I want to make sure the new O2 sensor that was used was installed correctly. Does this car have a cat with 2 sensors or 2 separate cats? Sorry for the million questions but I have a car with a million problems xD. Still love it though!

https://imgur.com/N4xQ5YC
https://imgur.com/KwssJ2a

frankjnjr

The P1457 code could be triggered by a number of problems. The most common issue for our cars seems to be the solenoid valve attached to the canister. If your car is exposed to road salt, you may want to have two new valve attaching bolts ready prior to installing the new valve. These bolt heads seem to rust badly and sometimes must be destroyed in order to be removed. I've never experienced a canister failure, but i guess it's possible. If the problem is not the valve, or canister, you should examine all EVAP hoses and connections for leaks, which could also cause this code. If you cannot detect any failed hoses or connections, than it may be time to have a (Smoke Test) done, which Will reveal the leak. A search at Delray Acura OEM parts shows different part numbers for the TL and TLS with reference to the ECU, so make sure you get the correct one. As far as the fuel smell, Iggy and others have posted issues where the fuel tank actually rusts through, and must be repaired or replaced. Iggy has posted great pics showing exactly where the tank is prone to rust. Has your car been operated in an area where road salt use is common? Have you actually looked at the underside of the car to see if there is any evidence of a fuel leak Do you always smell raw fuel, or only occasionally smell it..Have you noticed any pattern to smelling the raw fuel, for example, soon after fueling the car?

frankjnjr

I wouldn't rush in to replacing the ECU until you definitely know it has failed. And yes, the ECU needs to be programmed to the car. Anyone with the proper equipment can do it. Not necessary to take it to the dealer.