Upgrading a base model car often involves tackling features that were initially omitted, and power door locks are a common desire. For owners of the 2010 Honda Civic DX sedan looking to add this convenience, a full OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) conversion is possible, albeit complex. This guide, based on a real-world DIY experience, will walk you through the process, highlighting the crucial role of the immobilizer system and the steps required to ensure a successful upgrade. Be warned, this is not a beginner project and can be surprisingly expensive, potentially reaching upwards of $1000. This is simply a description of one individual’s experience, and any attempt to replicate it is at your own risk.
Parts Required for Power Door Lock Retrofit
To begin this ambitious project, you’ll need a comprehensive list of genuine Honda parts. Sourcing OEM components ensures compatibility and proper system integration. Here’s a detailed parts list used for this conversion:
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Wiring Harnesses:
- 32117-SNA-A44 WIRE HARN INST (Instrument Panel Wire Harness)
- 32751-SNA-A01 WIRE HARNESS, DRIVER DOOR
- 32752-SNA-A00 WIRE HARNESS, PASSENGER DOOR
- 32753-SNA-A11 WIRE HARNESS, R. RR. DOOR (Right Rear Door)
- 32754-SNA-A11 WIRE HARNESS, L. RR. DOOR (Left Rear Door)
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Power Door Latch Assemblies:
- 72150-SNA-A13 LATCH ASSY., L. FR. DOOR POWER (Left Front Door)
- 72110-SNA-A13 LATCH ASSY., R. FR. DOOR POWER (Right Front Door)
- 72650-SNA-A13 LATCH ASSY., L. RR. DOOR POWER (Left Rear Door)
- 72610-SNA-A13 LATCH ASSY., R. RR. DOOR POWER (Right Rear Door)
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Power Window and Lock Switches:
- 35760-SNA-A13 SWITCH ASSY., POWER WINDOW PASSENGER
- 35750-SNA-A13 SWITCH ASSY., POWER WINDOW MASTER
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Integrated Control Unit (MICU) and Fuse Box:
- 38200-SNA-A25 BOX ASSY., FUSE (MICU)
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Optional Steering Column Switches (For Additional Features During Dash Removal):
- 35256-TA0-A12 SWITCH ASSY., WIPER (Intermittent Wiper Switch)
- 36770-SVA-A41 SWITCH ASSY., CRUISE & AUDIO (Cruise Control & Audio Switches – Cruise control functionality was not implemented in the original DIY due to complexity)
Step-by-Step Guide to OEM Power Door Lock Conversion
This conversion is a significant undertaking, requiring patience and meticulous work. Having a Honda Service Manual specifically for your Civic model is highly recommended to prevent damage during disassembly and reassembly.
Step 1: Preparation and Safety First
The absolute first step, before touching any component, is to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This is crucial for safety, especially as you will be working around airbag systems. Accidental airbag deployment can cause serious injury.
Step 2: Door Panel and Latch Assembly Replacement
Begin by removing the door panels for all four doors, following the instructions in your Honda Service Manual. Once the panels are off, replace the original wire harnesses and latch assemblies with the new power door lock versions. For the front driver and passenger doors, you’ll also need to replace the window switches as the power door lock switch is integrated into these units. Refer to online resources and forums, such as the 8th Civic forum, for visual guides on door panel removal and switch replacement.
Alt text: Diagram showing the removal of a Honda Civic door panel, highlighting the locations of clips and screws.
Step 3: Dash Removal and Wiring Harness Replacement
This is arguably the most challenging and time-consuming part of the conversion. The entire dashboard needs to be removed to replace the main wiring harness and the Cabin Fuse Panel (MICU). The MICU is a critical component as it integrates with the vehicle’s immobilizer system. Carefully follow the Honda Service Manual for dash removal. This process can take a significant amount of time, potentially two full days.
Since dash removal is such a major job, consider taking advantage of the access to install additional features. In the original DIY, the installer added steering wheel radio controls and an intermittent wiper control switch while the dash was out, as the new wiring harness included the necessary connections.
Alt text: Photo of a Honda Civic dashboard partially removed, showing the complexity of the wiring and components behind it.
Step 4: MICU Replacement and Immobilizer Programming – The Key to Starting
After replacing the wiring harnesses and MICU, you will encounter a critical issue: the car will not start. This is because the new MICU needs to be “married” to your vehicle’s immobilizer system. The immobilizer is an anti-theft system that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key is present and recognized by the car’s computer. By installing a new MICU, you’ve essentially introduced an unrecognized component into this security system.
This step requires a trip to a Honda dealership. The dealership technicians have the specialized tools and software to program the new MICU to work with your car’s immobilizer and keys. Attempting to start the car without this programming will be unsuccessful due to the active immobilizer. Towing the vehicle to the dealership is recommended after the MICU replacement as the car will be immobile.
Understanding the Immobilizer System: Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated anti-theft systems, and the immobilizer is a key part of this. It’s an electronic security device that prevents the engine from running without the correct key. Typically, it works by using a transponder chip in the key that communicates with the car’s computer (often integrated within the MICU or ECU – Engine Control Unit). When you insert the key and turn the ignition, the immobilizer system verifies the key’s code. If the code is recognized, the system disengages, allowing the engine to start. Replacing the MICU disrupts this established communication, hence the need for reprogramming.
Step 5: Key Fob Programming (Optional)
To fully utilize the power door lock system, you’ll likely want keyless entry. OEM key fobs, designed for models with power door locks, can be purchased. These key fobs will also need to be programmed by the dealership to communicate with the newly installed MICU and immobilizer system. This usually involves a separate programming procedure after the MICU is initialized.
Final Touches and Considerations
After the dealership programs the MICU and key fobs, your power door lock conversion should be functional. In the original DIY, a minor issue with the interior light wiring harness was encountered, requiring some minor modification to restore interior lighting. This highlights the potential for unforeseen issues in complex modifications.
Important Considerations:
- Cost: As mentioned, this is an expensive upgrade. Parts alone can accumulate to a significant sum, and dealership programming adds to the cost.
- Complexity: This DIY is rated as highly complex, requiring significant mechanical skill and patience. Without a service manual and prior experience with car modifications, it’s not recommended.
- Immobilizer System: Understanding the immobilizer system is crucial for this project. The MICU replacement directly impacts this security feature, and dealership programming is mandatory for the car to function after the upgrade.
- Professional Installation: Given the complexity and potential security implications related to the immobilizer, consider whether professional installation by a qualified automotive electrician or a custom car shop might be a more suitable option, despite the higher labor costs.
Conclusion: Power Door Locks and Immobilizer Integration
Successfully adding OEM power door locks to a base model Honda Civic is a rewarding but challenging project. It showcases the intricate integration of modern car electronics, particularly the immobilizer system. While this DIY guide provides an overview, remember that professional guidance and meticulous attention to detail are essential. The immobilizer system’s role in vehicle security makes the MICU programming step non-negotiable, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting these complex automotive systems. If you’re considering this upgrade, carefully weigh the costs, complexity, and your own skillset before embarking on this journey.
