Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
SH-AWD Control Unit Update
2008 Acura RDXSECTION SH-AWD Control Unit Update
Special Tools Required
- Honda diagnostic system (HDS)
- Honda interface module (HIM)
- HDS pocket tester
NOTE:
- Use this procedure when you need to update the SH-AWD control unit in a troubleshooting procedure.
- Make sure the HDS/HIM has the latest software version.
- Before you update the SH-AWD control unit, make sure the battery in the vehicle is fully charged.
- Never turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0) during the update. If there is a problem with the update, leave the ignition switch to ON (II).
- To prevent SH-AWD control unit 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 SH-AWD control unit update whenever the SH-AWD control unit is substituted or replaced.
- You cannot update an SH-AWD control unit 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) lamp came on or was flashed during the update, leave the ignition switch in the ON (II) position when you disconnect the HIM from the data link connector (DLC). This will prevent SH-AWD control unit damage.
- Select the update program, and follow the screen prompts to update the SH-AWD control unit.
- If the software in the SH-AWD control unit 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 SH-AWD control unit is not the latest, follow the instructions on the screen.
- Do the SH-AWD control unit initialization.
- Do the SH-AWD differential clutch torque memorization.
- Do the yaw rate-lateral acceleration neutral position memorization.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.