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.
Telematics Control Unit Update (2016-17): Procedure
- This procedure can update the telematics software or the HFL software in the telematics control unit.
- Before you update the telematics control unit, check the vehicle battery condition first , and connect a jumper battery (not a battery charger) to maintain system voltage.
- Never press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode during the update. If there is a problem with the update, leave the vehicle in ON mode.
- To ensure the latest program is installed, do a telematics control unit update whenever the telematics control unit is substituted or replaced.
- The telematics control unit is updated via Bluetooth using the update application on the HDS PC. Make sure the HDS PC is inside the vehicle when updating the telematics control unit.
- Check any official Honda service website for more information about updating the telematics control unit.
- Telematics Control Unit - Update
2. Press and hold the MENU button, the NAV button, and the BACK button for 3 seconds or more, and the System Diagnostic Mode begins.
3. Select the Self-Diagnosis Mode from the Select Diagnosis Items menu
4. When the System Links test finishes, select the HFL (A).
5. Open the HFL control unit update application on the HDS PC
6. Select the Reflash from the vehicle's HFL screen.
7. A PASS (pin code) (A) appears on the vehicle's HFL software update screen. To start the update, enter this PASS into the update application on the HDS PC.
NOTE: If the telematics control unit is not able to connect with the update application after 5 minutes, the telematics control unit times out. If the telematics control unit times out, press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode, then go to step 1 and try again.8. When the update finishes successfully, the message appears on the vehicle's HFL screen. Select OK to check that the telematics control unit is updated. If the unit did not update, press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode, then go to step 1 and try again. If you cannot select the HFL from the System Links menu, go to step 9.
Update success
Update failed
9. Press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode and then select the ON mode
10. Open the update application on the HDS PC
11. Use the previously used PASS to start the telematics control unit update.
NOTE: If the HFL update was unsuccessful, the previously used pin code is displayed on the update application on the HDS PC12. Update the telematics control unit. If you cannot access the telematics control unit, restart your HDS PC, then go to step 9
13. When the update finishes successfully, press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode and then select the ON mode
14. Go into the System Diagnostic Mode, and check the HFL S/W (software) version that appears on the vehicle's HFL screen. If the update contains the telematics software update, check the telematics control unit SW (software) Version that appears on the vehicle's TCU Status screen
15. To end the System Diagnostic Mode, select Return until the map screen is displayed, or press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
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.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.