2002 Acura RSX Type S Manual Wiring Harness

The 2002 Acura RSX Type S manual transmission wiring harness is a critical electrical component that connects various systems throughout the vehicle. This comprehensive guide covers the wiring harness specifications, installation procedures, connector locations, troubleshooting methods, and maintenance guidelines for the RSX Type S manual transmission model.

1. Wiring Harness Overview 2. Connector Types and Locations 3. Installation Procedures 4. Technical Specifications 5. Electrical Schematics 6. Sensor Connections 7. Engine Management Wiring 8. Transmission Connections 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Safety Precautions 11. Maintenance and Care

Wiring Harness Overview

The main wiring harness connects the engine control unit, transmission sensors, ignition system, fuel injection, and various vehicle subsystems.

Component	Function
Engine Harness	Connects ECU to engine sensors and actuators
Transmission Harness	Links transmission sensors and speed sensors
Chassis Harness	Distributes power to vehicle accessories
Dashboard Harness	Connects instrument cluster and controls
Body Harness	Powers lights, windows, and comfort features
Ground Points	Multiple chassis ground connections
Fuse Box Connections	Main and secondary fuse panel links
Relay Connections	Power distribution and system control

Connector Types and Locations

Primary wiring harness connectors and their vehicle locations.

ECU Connector: Under dashboard, driver side - 31-pin and 24-pin connectors
Engine Bay Connectors: Near firewall and along fender wells
Transmission Connectors: Top of manual transmission housing
Sensor Connectors: Distributed throughout engine compartment
Chassis Connectors: Along frame rails and undercarriage

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before handling wiring harness to prevent electrical shorts.

Installation Procedures

Proper installation sequence for wiring harness replacement.

Disconnect battery: Remove negative terminal first
Remove old harness: Label all connectors before disconnection
Route new harness: Follow factory routing paths exactly
Connect components: Ensure all connectors seat properly
Secure with ties: Use factory-style mounting points
Reconnect battery: Test all electrical systems

CAUTION! Do not force connectors; ensure proper alignment before connection.

Technical Specifications

Wire Gauge: 0.5mm² to 2.0mm² depending on circuit
Insulation: Heat-resistant PVC, 600V rating
Temperature Range: -40°C to 105°C operating temperature
Color Coding: Standard Honda/Acura color scheme
Connector Types: Sumitomo, Yazaki, and Honda-specific
Circuit Protection: Fuses: 5A to 40A; Relays: Standard and micro
Shielding: Twisted pair for sensor circuits
Ground Points: 8 primary chassis ground locations

Electrical Schematics

Key wiring diagrams and circuit descriptions.

Engine Control: ECU pinouts, sensor inputs, actuator outputs. Transmission: Speed sensors, reverse switch, neutral safety. Ignition System: Coil packs, crank position, cam position. Fuel System: Injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulator. Charging System: Alternator, battery, voltage regulation.

Sensor Connections

Critical sensor wiring connections and specifications.

Crankshaft Position Sensor: 3-wire connector, shielded cable
Camshaft Position Sensor: 3-wire connector near valve cover
Throttle Position Sensor: 3-wire connector on throttle body
Manifold Absolute Pressure: 3-wire connector on intake manifold
Vehicle Speed Sensor: 2-wire connector on transmission
Oxygen Sensors: 4-wire connectors before and after catalytic converter

Tip: Always check sensor resistance before condemning wiring.

Engine Management Wiring

K20A2 engine specific wiring connections and ECU communication.

ECU Power Supply: Constant and switched power circuits
Injector Wiring: Sequential fuel injection control
Ignition Control: Individual coil pack triggers
Sensor Grounds: Dedicated ground circuits for accuracy
Communication Bus: CAN bus network connections
VTEC System: Solenoid and pressure switch wiring
IAC Valve: Idle air control motor circuits
ECT Sensor: Engine coolant temperature monitoring

WARNING! Do not modify factory wiring; use proper splices if repairs needed.

Transmission Connections

Manual transmission specific wiring and sensor connections.

Reverse Light Switch: 2-wire connector on transmission housing. Vehicle Speed Sensor: Generates vehicle speed signal for ECU and cluster. Neutral Safety Switch: Manual transmission position detection. Clutch Interlock: Safety switch for starting system.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common wiring harness issues and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No start condition	Bad grounds/power supply	Check ECU power and ground circuits
Engine misfire	Damaged ignition wiring	Inspect coil pack connectors and wiring
Sensor codes	Open/shorted circuits	Check continuity and resistance to ECU
Electrical shorts	Pinched wires	Inspect harness routing and protection
Intermittent issues	Loose connectors	Check connector retention and pins

Diagnostic Tip: Use factory service manual for specific resistance values.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures when working with vehicle wiring.

CAUTION! Always disconnect battery before servicing. Use proper electrical testing equipment. Avoid piercing wire insulation during testing. Follow lockout/tagout procedures for high-voltage systems.

Maintenance and Care

Proper wiring harness maintenance and inspection procedures.

Regular inspection for chafing or damage. Keep connectors clean and protected. Use dielectric grease on weatherproof connectors. Check ground connections for corrosion. Ensure proper harness retention and routing.

Service: Acura dealership or qualified automotive electrical specialist