That is part of the engine immobilizer system which reads the RFID code from the ignition key to allow the engine to start.

 

Wow, why would they put that on the back wall? So I should be able to relocate it as long as I keep it connected... Thanks for the quick reply ZRoger73

 

Good question. I would think it would be located near the steering column where the transponder is. Yes, it must be connected, otherwise the PCM will never receive the "okay to start" signal.

 

For security reasons, maybe?

I found no need to relocate it when I dampened the rear wall of my truck.

 

Thanks for the PDF, great information there. However, I fail to see the benefit of the IMOES unit. Anyone care to enlighten me?

 

It appears that (for whatever reason), Honda decided to offload some of the immobilizer functionality from the PCM to a dedicated module. Perhaps someone "hacked" the original configuration, so this "band-aid" makes it more secure? Or, maybe Honda wanted to switch to a generic PCM, but with different implementations of immobilizers. My instinct tells me the latter is the stronger possibility.

 

That's just what Honda is saying it is. Actually it is Big Brother keeping an eye on you. I'm not paranoid, I'm just suspicious.

 

It's just an additional level of security..... basically on previous models the imobi code had to be verified by the PCM. Now the code has to be verified by the PCM as well as the imoes unit. Both units have to agree that it's ok. Kind of like how in the movies they have to turn two keys simultaneously to launch the missiles.


I don't know if there was a particular need for this from the anti-theft standpoint, but I have a theory why it was installed. On the next generation Ridgeline, I'd bet remote start would be an option, and the imoes unit can receive a signal from the remote start module to signal the pcm to start the engine without a code from a programmed transponder key.



HT

 

Knowing it was on Canadian models first reminds me that, since '07, the law requires all new vehicles sold up here starting in '07 have to include an immobilizer device (similar to how the US requires TPMS now...). Don't know the specifics,and just taking a guess, but perhaps Canadian law requires such a stand-alone device (and the original system didn't meet all the requirements), that Honda since has standardized across the board on the RL...

 

Funny that you should say this as here in Manitoba we have public insurance.
I get a discount on my 2001 Civic premium because it has an approved immobilizer yet my 2008 RL gets no discount because they say its immobilizer is not recognized as being compliant. Go figure.
Maybe HT can tell me if there is a difference between immobilizers used in 2001 and 2008. I can’t seem to get a straight answer from Honda Canada or our insurance reps.

 

The immobilizer systems in 2001 Civics are different than the ones used today. the basics are the same... more or less just electronic changes made in the way the system operates within itself... the function remains the same. The 2008 immobilizer is just as effective, if not better, than the 2001 version at preventing theft. Probably it's a "red-tape" thing.... newer version hasn't been certified or something...

You Canucks and your wacky laws.... (sarcasm)

Well I'm off to pay my taxes... and then get an economic stimulus check in a couple weeks....

So, basically I pay what I owe to the IRS - then the fed turns around and mails me back a stimulus check? Why don't I just deduct the stimulus amount from what I owe? Oh, can't do that... That would make too much sense.


HT

 

Just remember that stimulus check is a loan which will be deducted from your taxes next year.

 

Thanks for the info HT. (or should I say wise & mighty one)