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Navigation System Information (05-018)

Publication date: 2016-11-23
Reference number: 05-018

NAVIGATION SYSTEM INFORMATION

NAVIGATION SYSTEM INFORMATION

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): 05-018 Version 13, Date of Issue:  November 23, 2016
ACURA: 2001-2003 3.2 CL; 2000-2003 3.2 TL; 1996-2004 3.5 RL; 2013 ILX, ILX Hybrid; 2001-2013 MDX; 2007-2013 RDX; 2005-2012 RL; 2007-2012 RL (Compass only); 2004-2013 TL, TSX; 2010-2013 ZDX
Superceded Bulletin(s): 05-018, Date of Issue:  April 28, 2016
NOTE: Supersedes 05-018, dated April 28

AFFECTED VEHICLES

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Year Model Trim VIN Range
2001-03 3.2 CL ALL ALL
2000-03 3.2 TL ALL ALL
1996-04 3.5 RL ALL ALL
2013 ILX ALL ALL
2013 ILX Hybrid ALL ALL
2001-13 MDX ALL ALL
2007-13 RDX ALL ALL
2005-12 RL ALL ALL
2007-12 RL (Compass only) ALL ALL
2004-13 TL ALL ALL
2004-13 TSX ALL ALL
2010-13 ZDX ALL ALL
NOTE: The compass system on the 2007-13 RL uses a CD. Do not confuse this compass system with vehicles that have a DVD-based navigation system or an electrical compass.

REVISION SUMMARY

Updating HDD versions.

NAVIGATION BACKGROUND

American Honda has two types of navigation system platforms available: DVD and HDD.

For more information about the navigation system and its operation, refer to the following resources:

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

None. This service bulletin is for information only. Refer to the flat rate manual whenever servicing or repairing the navigation system.

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

DVD Navigation System Information Page
DVD navigation type identification by model DVD NAVIGATION TYPE IDENTFICATION BY MODEL 
Earliest DVD version application for each model EARLIEST DVD VERSION APPLICATION FOR EACH MODEL 
How to identify navigation DVD or compass CD versions HOW TO IDENTIFY NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD VERSIONS 
Checking a disc (DVD or CD) for damage CHECKING A DISC (DVD OR CD) FOR DAMAGE 
Ordering a replacement DVD, update DVD, or compass CD ORDERING A REPLACEMENT DVD, UPDATE DVD, OR COMPASS CD 
Navigation DVD or compass CD stocking concerns NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD STOCKING CONCERNS 
Disc (DVD and CD) handling and cleaning DISC (DVD AND CD) HANDLING AND CLEANING 
Installing a navigation DVD or compass CD INSTALLING A NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD 
Precaution on client "sneak previews" of a newer navigation DVD version PRECAUTION ON CLIENT "SNEAK PREVIEWS" OF A NEWER NAVIGATION DVD VERSION 
Pitfalls when interchanging navigation DVD/parts during diagnosis PITFALLS WHEN INTERCHANGING NAVIGATION DVD/PARTS DURING DIAGNOSIS 
Replacing the navigation control unit and transferring the navigation DVD REPLACING THE NAVIGATION UNIT AND TRANSFERRING THE NAVIGATION DVD 
Entering the anti-theft code ENTERING THE ANTI-THEFT CODE 
Answering client questions about navigation system coverage ANSWERING CLIENT QUESTIONS ABOUT NAVIGATION SYSTEM COVERAGE 
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

Navigation HDD System Information Page
HDD version identification by model HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL 
How to identify HDD software versions HOW TO IDENTIFY HDD SOFTWARE VERSIONS 
Replacing the navigation control unit or the navigation DVD REPLACING THE NAVIGATION CONTROL UNIT OR THE NAVIGATION HDD FIRST GENERATION HDD 
Ordering a replacement HDD ORDERING A REPLACEMENT HDD 
Ordering navigation update software ORDERING NAVIGATION UPDATE SOFTWARE 
Entering the anti-theft code on an HDD unit ENTERING THE ANTI-THEFT CODE ON AN HDD UNIT 
Answering client questions about navigation coverage ANSWERING CLIENT QUESTIONS ABOUT NAVIGATION SYSTEM COVERAGE 

DVD NAVIGATION TYPE IDENTFICATION BY MODEL

For navigation systems that use a navigation DVD, remove the navigation DVD and compare the label color and version to the following chart. Clients may obtain navigation DVDs from a variety of sources (friends, internet auctions, etc.) outside the normal ordering process. If they install an incorrect DVD, it can produce an error message, or cause the navigation system to malfunction. If the label is the wrong color or wrong version, replace it with the correct navigation DVD before  replacing the navigation unit.

For compass systems that use a compass CD, remove the CD and compare the label version to the following chart. Clients may try to install a navigation DVD. If they install a navigation DVD or the wrong compass CD, it can produce an error message, or cause the compass system to malfunction. If the label is the wrong color or wrong version, replace it with the correct compass CD before  replacing the compass unit.

DVD NAVIGATION TYPE IDENTFICATION BY MODEL

Model Year DVD Label Color Applicable DVD Versions Coverage Area Voice Control Features Other Features
Earliest Allowed DVD Version Latest Vehicle Production DVD Version Current Update DVD Version
3.2CL  2000 Black 1.08 1.09 2.A0 Continental U.S. None (voice guidance only) None
2001 2.02 2.04 2.A0
2002 2.04 2.05A 2.A0
2003 2.05 2.05B 2.A0
MDX  2001 Black 2.02 2.04 2.A0 Continental U.S. None (voice guidance only) Trip computer, off-road tracking (breadcrumbs)
2002 2.05 2.05B 2.A0
2003 Orange 3.10 3.20A 3.D0 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation display commands Trip computer, off-road tracking (breadcrumbs)
2004 3.30D 3.30G 3.D0
2005 White 4.11 4.13C(3) 4.E0 Continental U.S. and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, climate control, and rear entertainment system (RES) HFL, OnStar
2006 4.31 4.31C 4.E0
2007 4.55/4.56 4.56A 4.E0 Continental U.S., Hawaii, and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, climate control, and rear entertainment system (RES) Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, HFL, DVD audio
2008 4.62 4.64 4.E0
2009 4.73 4.73A 4.E0
For 2010 and later, refer to HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL 
RDX  2007 White 4.41/4.56 4.56A 4.E0 Continental U.S., Hawaii, and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, HFL, DVD audio
2008 4.62 4.64 4.E0
2009 4.73 4.73A 4.E0
2010 4.81A 4.81A 4.E0
2011 4.92 4.92 4.E0
2012 4.92 4.A2 4.E0
For 2013 and later, refer to HDD VERSION INDENTIFICATION BY MODEL 
3.5RL  2000 Black 1.07 1.09 2.A0 Continental U.S. None (voice guidance only) None
2001 2.03 2.04 2.A0
2002 2.04 2.05A 2.A0
2003 2.05 2.05B 2.A0
2004 Orange 3.20 3.30G 3.D0 Continental U.S. Navigation display commands Voice recognition
RL  2005 White DVD 4.13B(3) 4.13B(3) 4.E0 Continental U.S., Hawaii and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, HFL, DVD audio, OnStar
2006 4.31 4.31C 4.E0
2007 (Tech with navigation) 4.55/4.56 4.56A 4.E0 Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, HFL, DVD audio
2008 (Tech with navigation) 4.62 4.62 4.E0
2009 (Tech with navigation) 4.63 4.73A 4.E0 Continental U.S., Hawaii, and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, audio USB, and climate control Real-time traffic, XM Weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB, DVD audio
2010 (Tech with navigation) 4.81A 4.81A 4.E0
2011 (Tech with navigation) 4.92 4.92 4.E0
2012 (Tech with navigation) 4.A2 4.A2 4.E0
2007 (with compass only) White CD 4.54/4.56(2) 4.71(2) 4.56(2) Continental U.S. Audio, and climate control Compass only (no map)
2008 (with compass only) 4.54(2) 4.71(2) 4.56(2) Audio, XM, and climate control Compass only (no map)
2009 (with compass only) 4.63(2) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) Compass only (no map)
2010 (with compass only) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) Compass only (no map)
2011 (with compass only) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) Compass only (no map)
2012 (with compass only) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) 4.71(2) Compass only (no map)
3.2TL  2000 Black 1.07 1.09 2.A0 Continental U.S. None (voice guidance only) None
2001 2.02 2.04 2.A0
2002 2.04 2.05A 2.A0
2003 2.05 2.05B 2.A0
TL  2004 Orange 3.30D 3.30G 3.D0 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control HFL, DVD audio
2005 3.40A 3.40C 3.D0
2006 3.50 3.50 3.E0
2007 White 4.55/4.56 4.56A 4.E0 Continental U.S., Hawaii, and Canada (border areas only) Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, HFL, DVD audio
2008-10 4.62 4.64 4.E0
For 2011 and later, refer to HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL 
TSX  2004 Orange 3.20 3.30H 3.C0 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, and climate control None
2005 3.40A 3.40C 3.C0
2006 White 4.31 4.31C 4.B1 Continental U.S. and Canada (border area only) Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control HFL(1)
2007 4.31/4.55/4.56 4.56A 4.B1
2008 4.62 4.62 4.B1 HFL
2009 4.63 4.73A 4.B1 Continental U.S. and Canada (border area only) Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, XM weather, notes, HFL, audio USB
2010 4.81A 4.81A 4.B1
For 2011 and later, refer to HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL 
(1) Navigation control units for these models have different part numbers and are not interchangeable between model years.
(2) Compass CD
(3) If a client updates directly from version 4.13D (or lower) to version 4.73A or higher, they will receive a setup DVD along with the update navigation DVD. This setup DVD must be installed first. If the setup DVD is not installed first, the navigation system may continuously reboot to the globe screen or not boot up at all.
NOTE:
  • The earliest DVD version is the earliest version that was installed during the vehicle production year. The version currently installed may be higher because the factory updated the DVD software during production or if the client previously chose to upgrade the DVD.
  • The latest production DVD version is the last version that was installed during the vehicle production year. Often changes to the navigation system software are running changes, and vehicles may finish the production year with a different version than they started with.
  • The current update DVD version is typically the version available in the current model year vehicle with the same navigation platform, or the last version available as an update DVD.
  • If you try to insert a navigation DVD into the compass unit, you will see a DISC ERROR message.

EARLIEST DVD VERSION APPLICATION FOR EACH MODEL

Each navigation system DVD contains a map/POI (point of interest) database and the navigation system software for each model that it supports. Inserting an older DVD (such as an earlier version than indicated in the table) can cause problems since it lacks the software to provide the specific features needed for that model. Unfortunately, the navigation software may not detect or warn you that the version is outdated, and it may even appear to operate normally.

NOTE: Replacing a DVD just because the version number is higher is not always justified. A higher software version does not necessarily mean it contains newer software for your model. The DVD contains software for all models that use the same color DVD, and a revised number may or may not have software fixes or upgrades for the model in question.

Typical warning symptoms that an outdated DVD is being used include:

HOW TO IDENTIFY NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD VERSIONS

To determine the navigation or compass version on a particular model, start the engine, then locate the navigation or compass control unit (see the appropriate service manual). Open the DVD door, and push the eject button to eject the disc. Hold the disc by the edges, and check for these items:

Software Patches

Occasionally, problems are discovered after a software version is released, either with the original software version that came with the vehicle, or a yearly update purchased by the client. Many software related problems can be repaired with software updates (patch CD).

Before assuming a navigation problem is hardware related, check the iN for software updates, and see if your client's problem is resolved with a patch CD.

CHECKING A DISC (DVD OR CD) FOR DAMAGE

Check the underside of the disc for signs of mishandling. Deep scratches, swirl marks, or fingerprints can cause random lock-ups, reboots, and DVD read or format errors.

NOTE: A damaged DVD or CD is not  covered under warranty unless the disc is damaged by the navigation or compass unit. Damage by the navigation or compass unit typically appears as circular scratches caused by something rubbing against the disc as it spins. The damage may appear as arcs or complete circles on the disc reading surface. For more information, refer to Service Bulletin 08-035, DVD Read Error, or No Route Displayed, and Navigation DVD is Scratched  .
G11078740
NOTE: If the navigation or compass unit is found to be defective (through the appropriate service manual troubleshooting procedures) and the disc will not eject, order a replacement control unit, and also order a DVD or CD from the Acura Navigation Center. (New control units do not come with a navigation DVD or compass CD.)

ORDERING A REPLACEMENT DVD, UPDATE DVD, OR COMPASS CD

To order a navigation DVD, you can call the Acura Navigation Center at 888-291-4675  . The navigation center knows the correct color DVD application for each vehicle and can provide the latest version. To order online, go to www.acuranavi.com  , and use the drop-down menu under Find Updates  . The client's navigation manual provides additional ordering and installation information. This information is located in the Client Assistance  section.

You cannot order a compass CD online. Call the Acura Navigation Center, select and specify you are ordering a compass CD for the RL.

NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD STOCKING CONCERNS

Never stock navigation system DVDs, because software versions are constantly updated. Some dealerships also remove the DVDs from new or used vehicles, store them in a common, locked location, then reinstall them when the vehicle is sold. This is a mistake because the various navigation systems are version sensitive (meaning that even if the correct color DVD is used, an older version may not work).

The same issues apply to compass CDs, as on the surface, they appear similar to navigation DVDs. Since compass-equipped vehicles appear similar to navigation-equipped vehicles, this increases the chances of the wrong disc being inserted.

Stocking navigation DVDs or compass CDs or storing navigation DVDs and compass CDs in a common location can result in any of these problems:

These ordering procedures are recommended: 

NOTE:
  • Refer to the version chart in this service bulletin when ordering any navigation system DVD.
  • Damaged discs are not warrantable unless they are damaged by the navigation unit.

DISC (DVD AND CD) HANDLING AND CLEANING

To avoid damaging or leaving fingerprints on the disc, always handle it by the edges and place it in a jewel case whenever it is outside the control unit. Deep scratches or fingerprints on the back of the disc can cause intermittent rebooting or other system errors.

G11078741

Smudges and fingerprints can be carefully removed using a mild cleaner and soft cloth designed to clean eyeglasses. To clean a disc, first apply the cleaning solution to the disc, and using a clean soft cloth, very gently wipe across the disc from the center to the outside edge, never  in a circular motion.

G11078742

Do not place stabilizer rings or labels on the disc.

INSTALLING A NAVIGATION DVD OR COMPASS CD

NOTE: For compass systems, the procedure is the same except there is no disclaimer screen, and you do not need to map-match the vehicle.
  1. Park the vehicle outside, and start the engine.
  2. Eject the old DVD.
  3. Install the new navigation DVD. Be sure to close the door on the navigation unit.
  4. Select OK  on the disclaimer screen, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0). Wait 1 minute, then restart the engine.
  5. Select OK  on the disclaimer screen.
  6. Drive the vehicle on a mapped road until the road name appears at the bottom of the map screen. The system is now map-matched.

PRECAUTION ON CLIENT "SNEAK PREVIEWS" OF A NEWER NAVIGATION DVD VERSION

Your client might request a look (or "sneak preview") at features in the latest navigation software. You should never preview a navigation DVD in a client's vehicle. Inserting a new DVD installs the latest software from the DVD into the memory of the client's navigation system. When the original DVD is reinstalled, the newer software remains in memory and is often incompatible with the client's original DVD Map and POI database.

If your client wishes to see the latest navigation coverage or software features, demonstrate it on an in-stock vehicle that already has the latest DVD version.

If a newer version is loaded accidentally, either by the dealer or the client, one possible remedy is to enter the navigation diagnostic mode's Version  screen and do a forced download  . Refer to the iN for applicable patches that may need reinstalling.

If a forced download does not reinstall the original software, the navigation unit may need to be replaced. This is not covered  under warranty.

NOTE: A forced download is not possible when the client upgrades their 2005 white-labeled DVD version 4.13 with an '06 or later DVD version 4.31 or greater. Either a new version DVD must be purchased, or the navigation unit must be replaced.

PITFALLS WHEN INTERCHANGING NAVIGATION DVD/PARTS DURING DIAGNOSIS

When troubleshooting navigation system problems, ensure that the known-good vehicle is the same software version year and model as the vehicle being serviced. Mixing incompatible navigation DVDs or other system components can delay the troubleshooting process by causing side effects unrelated to the original problem. See the TABLE  under DVD NAVIGATION TYPE IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL.

REPLACING THE NAVIGATION UNIT AND TRANSFERRING THE NAVIGATION DVD

If your diagnosis determines the client's navigation unit is faulty, you will need to order a remanufactured replacement navigation unit (in warranty), or send it out for repair (out of warranty). Refer to Service Bulletin 06-001, Audio, Navigation, and RES, Unit In-Warranty Exchange and Out-of-Warranty Repair  . The order procedure on the iN is designed to minimize unnecessary replacement of parts due to client settings, unfamiliarity with system operation, or software/database issues that cannot be resolved by hardware replacement. The Navigation System Worksheet asks the following navigation information:

This information helps the Remanufactured Parts Center and the factory to understand the problem and properly repair the core.

NOTE: The following parts are not available through the Remanufactured Parts Center:
PART INFORMATION

Component Year/Model Part Number/Note
Display 2004-08 TL Order new parts to repair these vehicles.

Replacement navigation units do not  come with a DVD because the parts center has no way of knowing the client's current DVD version. When the new navigation unit arrives, and before disconnecting the original navigation unit, do this:

  1. Save the client's data (if equipped) using the Save Users Memory procedure:
    • Refer to the applicable service manual, or
    • Online, enter keywords NAVI DIAG  , select Navigation System Diagnostic Mode  from the list, and look for Save Users Memory  .
  2. With the engine running, open the navigation unit door, and eject the DVD from the original unit. To avoid scratching or damaging the DVD, temporarily place the DVD in a jewel case.
    NOTE: If the DVD will not eject, write that information clearly on the core return form, and order a DVD from the Acura Navigation Center.
  3. Install a new navigation unit:
    • Refer to the navigation section in the applicable service manual, or
    • Online, enter keywords NAVI REMOVAL  , and select Navigation Unit Removal/Installation  from the list.
  4. Reinstall the client's original DVD, verifying that the DVD is free of deep scratches or smudges.
  5. Check online for any service bulletins prescribing patches that should be applied to the replacement navigation unit.
  6. Park the vehicle outside, and do the system initialization. Online, look up the navigation system TQI service bulletin that applies to the client's vehicle. This assures that all components connected to, or controlled by, the navigation unit are working properly. The TQI procedure includes a short test to ensure that the navigation unit has synchronized its maps with the current location obtained during the GPS initialization (map-matching).

ENTERING THE ANTI-THEFT CODE

Any time power is disconnected from the navigation unit, the 4-digit anti-theft code must be entered on the navigation system display. This 4-digit code can be found on a small code card or label in the glove box. Enter the 4-digit code, then select Done  .

If you cannot find the navigation system anti-theft code, use the iN to look it up. You need the serial number of the navigation unit to do this. There are two methods to obtain the serial number:

The iN may display more than one code for a given serial number. This is because serial numbers are not unique. You may have to try more than one 4-digit code. If no code is shown, or if the code(s) given do not work, contact the American Honda Warranty department at 310-783-3240  , and ask them to verify the code(s). If the code "0000" (four zeroes) works, replace the navigation unit.

When you replace a navigation unit, be sure to remove the old code card, and give the client the new anti-theft security code card.

HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL

For navigation systems that use the first-generation HDD/flash memory card (1996-99 3.5RL, 1999 3.2TL), transfer the HDD or flash memory card to the replacement navigation unit:

For navigation systems that use an HDD, check the software version and compare the version to the following chart.

HDD VERSION IDENTIFICATION BY MODEL

Model Year Applicable HDD Software Versions Coverage Area Voice Control Features Other Features
Earliest Allowed HDD Version Latest Vehicle Production HDD Version Current Update HDD Version
3.5RL  1996 N/A December 2002 December 2002 Individual sections of U.S. (DCA) on removable HDD/flash card None (voice guidance only) First-generation HDD/Flash card Dealer programs "DCA" using Interactive Network
1997
1998
1999
3.2TL  1999 HDD N/A DVD 1.07 December 2002 (HDD) December 2002 (HDD) DVD 2.60 HDD - Individual sections of U.S. (DCA) on removable HDD/flash card. DVD - Continental U.S None (voice guidance only) First-generation HDD/Flash card Dealer programs "DCA" using Interactive Network
ILS  2012 02.100400 02.110000 06.000000 Continental U.S., Canada, and Mexico Navigation, audio, XM and climate control + Song by Voice Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB + Pandora, jacket picture display
2013 03.000600 03.000600 06.000000
2014 04.000000 04.000000 06.000000
2015 05.000000 05.000000 06.000000
MDX  2010 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB
2011 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
2012 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
2013 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
RDX  2012.5 02.100400 06.000000 06.000000 Continental U.S., Canada, and Mexico Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control + Song by Voice Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB + Pandora, jacket picture display
2013 03.000600 03.000600 06.000000
2014 04.000000 04.000000 06.000000
2015 05.000000 05.000000 06.000000
TL  2009 01.000700 01.001400 08.000000 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB
2010 02.000400 02.000700 08.000000
2011 03.000100 03.000100 08.000000
2011.5 01.080000 01.110000 06.000000
2012 03.000100 03.000100 06.000000
2013 - - 06.000000
2014 04.000000 04.000000 06.000000
TSX  2011 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB
2012 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
2013 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
ZDX  2010 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100 Continental U.S. and Canada Navigation, audio, XM, and climate control Real-time traffic for select U.S. cities, weather, XM notes, HFL, audio USB
2011 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
2012 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
2013 1.40.0300 1.50.000 1.60.0100
NOTE:
  • The earliest HDD version is the earliest version that was installed during the vehicle production year. The version currently installed may be higher because the factory updated the HDD software during production or if the client previously chose to upgrade the HDD.
  • The latest production HDD version is the last version that was installed during the vehicle production year. Often changes to the navigation system software are running changes, and vehicles may finish the production year with a different version than they started with.
  • The current update HDD version is typically the version available in the current model year vehicle with the same navigation platform, or the last version available as an annual HDD update.
  • Depending on the year and model, and whether the client purchased an HDD update, the client's HDD may be a version between the earliest and the latest HDD version listed.
  • The Gracenote software applies to the audio system and is not related to the HDD navigation operating system software.

HOW TO IDENTIFY HDD SOFTWARE VERSIONS

To determine the navigation software version in a vehicle:

Software Patches

Occasionally, problems are discovered after a software version is released, either with the original software version that came with the vehicle, or a map update purchased by the client. Many software related problems can be repaired with software updates (patch CD).

Before assuming a navigation problem is hardware related, check the iN for software updates, and see if your client's problem is resolved with a patch CD.

REPLACING THE NAVIGATION CONTROL UNIT OR THE NAVIGATION HDD FIRST GENERATION HDD

If your diagnosis determines the client's navigation unit is faulty, you will need to order a new part or send it out for repair. Refer to Service Bulletin 06-001, Audio, Navigation, and RES Unit In-Warranty Exchange and Out-of-Warranty Repair  ). The order procedure on the iN is designed to minimize unnecessary replacement of parts due to client settings, unfamiliarity with system operation, or software/database issues that cannot be resolved by hardware replacement. The Navigation System Worksheet asks the following navigation information:

This information helps the factory to understand the problem and properly repair the core

NOTE: The following parts are not available through the Remanufactured Parts Center:
PART INFORMATION

Component Year/Model Part Number/Note
Flash Card (replacement for HDD) 1996-98 3.5 RL 39010-SZ3-A91: Order new parts to repair these vehicles. The replacement flash card does not come loaded with any maps or POIs. Refer to Service Bulletin 97-016, 1996-99 3.5RL: TQI of the Navigation System. 
1999 3.5 RL
1999 3.2 TL
  1. Remove the original navigation unit. Either order a new navigation unit or send the unit out for repair. Refer to S/B 06-001 for more information
    • Refer to the applicable service manual, or
    • Online, enter keywords NAVI DIAG  , select Navigation System Diagnostic Mode  from the list, and look for Save Users Memory  .
  2. Install a new navigation unit:
    • Refer to the navigation section in the applicable service manual, or
    • Online, enter keywords NAVI REMOVAL  , and select Navigation Unit Removal/Installation  from the list.
  3. Check online for any service bulletins prescribing patches that should be applied to the replacement navigation unit.
  4. Park the vehicle outside, and do the system initialization. Online, look up the navigation system TQI service bulletin that applies to the client's vehicle. This assures that all components connected to, or controlled by, the navigation unit are working properly. The TQI procedure includes a short test to ensure that the navigation unit has synchronized its maps with the current location obtained during the GPS initialization (map-matching).

Second Generation HDD

The audio-navigation unit and HDD are only available as separate parts. There is a built-in anti-theft protection referred to as "mating" to limit replacing an HDD or audio-navigation unit. Refer to Audio-Navigation Unit and HDD Service Precautions in General Troubleshooting of the applicable service manual for more information.

If you substitute an audio-navigation unit for troubleshooting, you must substitute a combined audio-navigation unit and HDD. Do not  substitute the audio-navigation unit or HDD separately.

If your diagnosis determines that the audio-navigation unit is at fault, the replacement unit does not come with an HDD. Transfer the original HDD to the new audio-navigation unit. All the client's settings, music, and personal information are transferred with the HDD.

NOTE: If the HDD is not transferred to the replacement audio-navigation unit, an HDD Access Error  appears on the display.

ORDERING A REPLACEMENT HDD

If you need to replace the HDD, it is available through the parts ordering system as a restricted part. You will need the vehicle VIN to complete the order. The VIN allows the supplier to confirm the current software version being used by the client. When the HDD arrives at the dealership, install the HDD in the audio-navigation unit, then check any official Honda service website for any patches or updates related to the navigation system.

NOTE: If the HDD is not transferred to the replacement audio-navigation unit, an HDD Access Error  appears on the display.

ORDERING NAVIGATION UPDATE SOFTWARE

Navigation map updates can be ordered online at acuranavi.com  . Under Find Updates, use the pull-down menu to select the vehicle Model and Year. You can also call the Acura Navigation Center at 888-291-4675  . Both methods require a major credit card.

Follow the instructions included with the map update on how to load the update information into the navigation system.

ENTERING THE ANTI-THEFT CODE ON AN HDD UNIT

Any time power is disconnected from the navigation unit, the 4-digit anti-theft code must be entered on the navigation system display. This 4-digit code can be found on a small code card or label in the glove box. Enter the 4-digit code, then select Done  .

If the code card is lost or unavailable, you can get the code from the iN (Interactive Network) using the navigation system serial number. The system serial number can easily be obtained without  removing the navigation unit. To get the serial number and the code, do this:

When you replace a navigation unit, be sure to remove the old code card, and give the client the new anti-theft security code card.

ANSWERING CLIENT QUESTIONS ABOUT NAVIGATION SYSTEM COVERAGE

Some clients may ask questions regarding a city, address, or POI (point of interest) covered by the navigation system. It is better to verify a coverage question on an actual vehicle than to disappoint your client by promising coverage that may be incomplete or missing in their area. The following suggestions can be used to answer coverage inquiries from your client.

There are three ways to find the local address to businesses:

Answers to these and other questions regarding coverage can be found in these locations: