2002 Acura RSX Electrical Troubleshooting Manual

The 2002 Acura RSX Electrical Troubleshooting Manual provides comprehensive guidance for diagnosing and resolving electrical issues in the 2002 Acura RSX model. This manual covers electrical systems including starting/charging, lighting, power accessories, audio system, climate control, and engine management electronics. Below are key sections for safety precautions, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing, and common electrical problems.

1. Electrical System Overview 2. Safety Precautions 3. Diagnostic Tools & Equipment 4. Battery & Charging System 5. Starting System 6. Lighting Systems 7. Power Accessories 8. Audio & Entertainment System 9. Climate Control Electronics 10. Engine Management System 11. Wiring Diagrams & Connectors 12. Common Electrical Issues

Electrical System Overview

Key electrical components: 12V battery, alternator, starter motor, fuse boxes, relays, wiring harnesses, ECU, lighting circuits, power window/lock systems, audio head unit.

Component	Function
Main Fuse Box	Primary circuit protection under hood
Under-dash Fuse Box	Interior circuit protection
ECU/PCM	Engine control unit/powertrain control module
Alternator	Charging system power generation
Starter Motor	Engine cranking system
Battery	12V power storage and supply
Lighting Control Module	Headlight and signal light operation
Body Control Module	Power accessory management
Audio Amplifier	Sound system power
Climate Control Unit	HVAC system electronics

Safety Precautions

Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.

Disconnect negative battery terminal first: Use 10mm wrench to remove negative cable.
Discharge capacitors: Wait 3 minutes after battery disconnect for airbag and ECU capacitors.
Use proper tools: Digital multimeter, test light, wiring diagrams.
Fuse replacement: Always replace with same amperage rating.

WARNING! Airbag systems contain explosive devices; improper handling can cause serious injury. Always follow proper safety procedures.

Diagnostic Tools & Equipment

Essential tools for electrical troubleshooting:

Digital Multimeter: For voltage, resistance, and continuity testing.
Test Light: For quick circuit verification.
Scan Tool: For reading ECU trouble codes.
Wiring Diagrams: Factory service manual diagrams.
Fuse Puller: For safe fuse removal and inspection.

CAUTION! Always use proper rated test equipment; incorrect tools can damage sensitive electronic components.

Battery & Charging System

Battery Type: 12V 55Ah maintenance-free.
Alternator Output: 90A maximum.
Charging Voltage: 13.5-14.5V at 2000 RPM.
Battery Load Test: Minimum 9.6V under load.
Parasitic Drain: Normal: less than 50mA after 10 minutes.
Terminal Cleaning: Use baking soda/water solution for corrosion.
Voltage Drop Test: Maximum 0.5V across any connection.

Starting System

Diagnostic procedure for no-start conditions.

Starter Circuit: Battery > ignition switch > starter relay > starter solenoid > starter motor.

Testing: Check battery voltage (min 12.4V), starter relay click, solenoid engagement, voltage drop at starter (max 0.5V during cranking). Starter draw: 130-190A typical. Neutral safety switch: prevents starting in gear.

Lighting Systems

Headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, interior lighting.

Headlight circuit: Fuse > relay > dimmer switch > headlights.
Bulb replacement: Always match wattage and type.
Ground points: Check G301, G302 for lighting circuits.
Turn signal issues: Check flasher unit and hazard switch.

Tip: Use dielectric grease on bulb connectors to prevent corrosion.

Power Accessories

Power windows, door locks, mirrors, sunroof operation.

Power window testing: Check master switch, individual motors, regulators.
Door lock operation: Test actuators and control modules.
Sunroof motor: Check fuse and motor operation.
Mirror adjustment: Verify switch and motor function.
Circuit protection: 20A fuse in under-dash fuse box.
Switch continuity: Test with multimeter in ohms mode.
Motor current draw: Typical 5-8A per window motor.

WARNING! Disable power before testing motors; pinch hazards exist in window and sunroof mechanisms.

Audio & Entertainment System

Factory radio, speakers, antenna, amplifier troubleshooting.

Climate Control Electronics

HVAC controls, blower motor, blend door actuators, A/C compressor clutch.

CAUTION! A/C system contains high pressure refrigerant; qualified technician only for A/C electrical diagnosis.

Engine Management System

ECU/PCM, sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition control.

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for automotive use. Copyright © 2002 Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Diagnostic procedures based on factory service information. For technical support, contact Acura dealer service department or visit techinfo.honda.com.

Wiring Diagrams & Connectors

Reference factory wiring diagrams for specific circuit tracing.

Common Electrical Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Battery drain	Parasitic load	Test parasitic drain; check aftermarket accessories; inspect trunk light switch.
No crank condition	Starter circuit	Check battery, starter relay, ignition switch, neutral safety switch.
Dim headlights	Voltage drop	Test alternator output; check ground connections; inspect headlight relays.
Power window failure	Motor/switch	Test window motor current draw; check master switch continuity.
Radio memory loss	Constant power	Verify radio fuse; check constant 12V supply at radio harness.
Check engine light	Sensor/ECU	Scan for trouble codes; test relevant sensors and wiring.

Reset Procedures: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU; radio code required after battery disconnect.

Technical Support: Acura dealer service department; techinfo.honda.com for wiring diagrams.