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ECM/PCM Update

Special Tools Required 

Any one of the above updating tools can be used.

NOTE:
  • Make sure the HDS/iN workstation has the latest HDS 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 ACC (I) or to LOCK (0) during the update. If there is a problem with the update, leave the ignition switch to ON (II).
  • To prevent ECM/PCM damage, do not operate anything electrical (headlights, audio system, brakes, A/C, power windows, 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.
  • 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 will prevent ECM/PCM damage.
  1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), but do not start the engine.
  2. 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)
    G06267523Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. 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 step 4 and step  5, then clean the throttle body after updating the ECM/PCM (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  4. Select the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS.
  5. Select the ETCS TEST, then select the TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the screen prompts with the HDS.
    NOTE: If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue this procedure.
  6. Exit the HDS diagnostic system, then select the update mode, and follow the screen prompts to update the ECM/PCM.
  7. If the software in the ECM/PCM is the latest, disconnect the HDS/HIM/GNA600 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 have a problem (programming takes over 15 minutes, status bar goes over 100 %, D (A/T) or immobilizer indicator flashes, HDS tablet freezes, etc.) during the update, follow these step s to minimize the chance of damaging the ECM/PCM:
    • Leave the ignition switch ON (II).
    • 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 do the update again.
  8. If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step  5, clean the throttle body (see THROTTLE BODY CLEANING ).
  9. Do the ECM/PCM idle learn procedure (see ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
  10. Do the CKP pattern clear/CKP pattern learn procedure (see CRANK (CKP) PATTERN CLEAR/CRANK (CKP) PATTERN LEARN ).
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