This procedure addresses a kickdown cable replacement for the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo. Note: This transmission uses electronic throttle control and does not have a traditional kickdown cable.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Accelerator pedal position sensor (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM Honda part number
• Throttle body (if faulty) × 1 — Use OEM Honda part number

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes
4. Scan for existing diagnostic trouble codes and record them
5. Verify complaint is related to throttle response or downshift behavior, not a mechanical cable issue

Procedure

1. 1

   Verify system operation
   Connect OBD-II scanner and check for codes P0120-P0124 (throttle position sensor), P2135 (throttle position correlation), or P2138 (accelerator pedal position correlation). Monitor live data for accelerator pedal position sensor (APP) voltage, which should read approximately 0.5V at rest and increase smoothly to 4.5V at full throttle. Erratic readings indicate sensor failure.
2. 2

   Access accelerator pedal assembly
   Remove the lower driver's side dashboard trim panel by carefully prying out plastic retaining clips. Locate the accelerator pedal assembly mounted to the firewall above the pedal. The APP sensor is integrated into the pedal assembly and cannot be serviced separately.
3. 3

   Remove accelerator pedal assembly
   Disconnect the electrical connector from the accelerator pedal position sensor by pressing the release tab. Remove the mounting nuts securing the pedal assembly to the firewall using a 10mm socket. Remove the entire pedal assembly from the vehicle.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Inspect throttle body (if applicable)
   If codes indicate throttle body issues, remove the engine cover by pulling upward on the cover clips. Disconnect the air intake duct from the throttle body. Disconnect the throttle body electrical connector. Remove the throttle body mounting bolts and remove the throttle body from the intake manifold. Inspect the throttle body gasket and throttle plate for carbon buildup or damage.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Install new accelerator pedal assembly
   Position the new accelerator pedal assembly to the firewall mounting points. Install the mounting nuts and torque to specification. Connect the electrical connector to the APP sensor until it clicks into place. Verify the connector is fully seated.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Install throttle body (if replaced)
   Install a new throttle body gasket onto the intake manifold. Position the throttle body and install mounting bolts, torquing to specification. Connect the electrical connector to the throttle body. Reinstall the air intake duct and ensure all clamps are tight.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Perform throttle body calibration
   Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position without starting the engine. Wait 2 minutes to allow the ECU to perform throttle body calibration. During this time, do not touch the accelerator pedal. Turn ignition OFF, wait 10 seconds, then start the engine and allow it to idle for 3 minutes without touching the accelerator.
8. 8

   Clear diagnostic codes and verify repair
   Connect the OBD-II scanner and clear all diagnostic trouble codes. Start the engine and monitor live data for APP sensor voltage. Slowly depress the accelerator pedal and verify smooth voltage increase from 0.5V to 4.5V with no dropouts or erratic behavior. Test drive the vehicle and verify proper throttle response and transmission downshift behavior under various throttle inputs.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall all dashboard trim panels and verify all clips are properly seated
2. Reinstall engine cover if removed
3. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked

Verification

• Verify no diagnostic trouble codes are present after test drive
• Confirm smooth throttle response with no hesitation or delayed response
• Verify transmission downshifts appropriately when accelerator pedal is depressed quickly
• Check that idle speed is stable and within normal range (650-750 RPM when warm)
• Confirm accelerator pedal returns freely to rest position with no binding

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