ECM/PCM Update

Special Tools Required

Use any one of these update tools

Honda diagnostic system (HDS) tablet tester
Honda interface module (HIM) and an iN workstation with HDS and CM update software
HDS pocket tester
GNA600 and an iN workstation with HDS and CM update software

NOTE:

Use this procedure when you need to update the ECM/PCM at any time
Make sure the HDS/HIM has the latest software version
Before you update the ECM/PCM, make sure the battery in the vehicle is fully charged, and connect a jumper battery (not a battery charger) to maintain system voltage
Never turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0) or ACC (I) during the update If there is a problem with the update, leave the ignition switch ON (II)
To prevent ECM/PCM damage, do not operate anything electrical (headlights, audio system, brakes, A/C, power windows, moonroof (if equipped), door locks, etc) during the update
To ensure the latest program is installed, do an ECM/PCM update whenever the ECM/PCM is substituted or replaced
You cannot update an ECM/PCM with a program it already has It will only accept a new program
High temperature in the engine compartment might cause the ECM/PCM to become too hot to run the update If the engine has been running before this procedure, open the hood and cool the engine compartment
If you need to diagnose the Honda interface module (HIM) because the HIM's red (#3) light came on or was flashing during the update, leave the ignition switch in ON (II) when you disconnect the HIM from the data link connector (DLC) This prevents damage to the ECM/PCM

Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), but do not start the engine
Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard

Fig 1: Identifying Data Link Connector (DLC)
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Make sure the HDS communicates with the ECM/PCM and other vehicle systems If it doesn't, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ) If you are returning from the DLC circuit troubleshooting, skip steps 4 and 5, and clean the throttle body after updating the ECM/PCM (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING )
USA, Canada models Select the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS
USA, Canada models Select the ETCS TEST, then select the TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the HDS screen prompts
NOTE: USA, Canada models If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue this procedure
Exit the HDS diagnostic system, then select the update mode, and follow the screen prompts to update the ECM/PCM
If the software in the ECM/PCM is the latest, disconnect the HDS/HIM from the DLC, and go back to the procedure that you were doing If the software in the ECM/PCM is not the latest, follow the instructions on the screen If prompted to choose the PGM-FI system or the A/T system (A/T), make sure you update both
NOTE: If the ECM/PCM update system requires you to cool the ECM/PCM, follow the instructions on screen If you run into a problem during the update procedure (programming takes over 15 minutes, status bar goes over 100 %, D (A/T) or immobilizer indicator flashes, HDS tablet freezes, etc), follow these steps to minimize the chance of damaging the ECM/PCM
- Leave the ignition switch in the ON (II) position
- Connect a jumper battery (do not connect a battery charger)
- Shut down the HDS
- Disconnect the HDS from the DLC
- Reboot the HDS
- Reconnect the HDS to the DLC, and try the update procedure again
USA, Canada models If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step 5, clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING )
Do the ECM/PCM idle learn procedure (see ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE )
Do the CKP pattern learn procedure