Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Personal Computer (PC) Software

Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Software Package

Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) Tools

Control Module Programming

Software

Tools

Control Module (CM) Initialization (new CM installation)

Honda & Acura vehicles up to 2007 model year

Honda & Acura 2008 model year vehicles and later

Reprogrammable Honda & Acura model

 

Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Software Package (To check availability of the HDS, click here)

NOTE: HDS PC Software and a GNA600 Kit or Honda Interface Module is the replacement for the discontinued HDS Tablet Tester.

The HDS software package includes software to program three different platforms: the HDS Tablet Tester, the Teradyne Diagnostic System Pocket Tester, and the HDS PC version. The software covers all vehicles from 1992 to the current model year (except for the Honda Passport and the Acura SLX**). The software also includes all the necessary items to monitor, diagnose, and reprogram Honda and Acura control modules.

HDS software functions include:

• DTC reading and clearing
  

• Snapshot function (capture data relative to a trigger event)
  

• Vehicle data display (value, line graph, or bar graph formats)
  

• DLC locator diagrams

• Data list display (real-time display of ECM/PCM parameters)

• Onboard tutorial

• Generic scan tool to run basic tests on non-Honda/Acura vehicles (HDS Tablet and Pocket Tester only)

• Control module update functions

Hardware and software requirements:

• PC or laptop (not included with HDS Software) with Windows 2000 or Windows XP Professional operating system

NOTE: Windows XP Home Edition or Vista cannot be used

• DTC reading and clearing

• Snapshot function (capture data relative to a trigger event)

• Hard disk drive with at least 400 MB of free space

• CD-ROM drive (if a high-speed Internet connection is not available)

• Monitor capable of displaying in VGA mode or above (1024 x 768 recommended)

• Internet connection (high-speed connection recommended)

• If using a laptop, we recommend a rough design model like the Panasonic Toughbook which provides the ruggedness needed for a service shop.

• When using a HIM with a PC, an RS232 port is required to connect PC to HIM (PC version software only). If an RS232 port is not available, a USB-to-serial adapter may be used to communicate between the HIM and your computer. Consult the Aftermarket HDS Multiplatform Software Installation Instructions for a list of approved adapters.

• Vehicle Communication Interface (not included with HDS Software), the GNA600 Kit or a HIM to establish a communication link between the vehicle and PC/Laptop. Refer to Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) for further details.

• If using a HDS Tablet, a Type II PC card drive (internal or external) is required.

• If using a HDS Tablet or Teradyne Pocket Tester, a 2 GB memory card is required due to HDS software file size.

Enrollment procedure:

• To enroll in the HDS software package subscription program, you must be a ServiceExpress subscriber. (Click here to subscribe)

• The projected software package subscription cost is $1,000*. Software subscriptions expire 365-days from the date of purchase. This provides the same updates at the same time as the dealers.

NOTE: You must be a current ServiceExpress subscriber to enroll in the software program.

• Initial software is delivered on a CD and updates are available over the Internet (DSL or broadband high-speed connection recommended due to file size).

• If a high-speed connection is not available, software updates can be supplied on a CD.

* Pricing is subject to change without notice
** To read diagnostic codes on Honda Passport and Acura SLX vehicles, you need the Vetronix Mastertech OBD II tester, available directly from Vetronix at (800) 321-4889, Ext. 4, or visit www.vetronix.com.

Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) Tools

The software used with the GNA600 Kit and a PC/laptop provides the functionality required to troubleshoot self-diagnostic systems on Honda-produced OBD vehicles.

• GNA600 Kit (To check the availability of the GNA600 kit, Click here)
  The GNA600 is a VCI device that allows you to update control modules on all Honda and Acura vehicles that have programmable chips, including vehicles using the CAN (control area network) communications protocol on the DLC (data link connector) except for 1996–1999 Acura SLXs and 1996–2002 Honda Passports. For these vehicles, refer to the Smart Cable for details.
  
  The GNA600 can also be used as a vehicle communication interface between a vehicle and a PC/laptop running the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) software for the PC to function as a HDS diagnostic tester. Refer to the Aftermarket HDS Multiplatform Software Installation Instructions for details.
  
  The GNA600 Kit replaces the Honda Interface Module (HIM), which is no longer available. If you already have a HIM, it’s not necessary to purchase a GNA600 Kit; either of the devices can be used with the Honda Diagnostic System (HDS) Software Package. Refer to the GNA600 Gateway Device User Guide for setup and operation and Aftermarket HDS Multiplatform Software Installation Instructions for software installation.

NOTE: The Honda Interface Module (HIM) with CAN Daughter-Board is no longer available and has been replaced by the GNA600 Kit. It can still be used with the HDS PC software.

Control Module Programming for OBD II Vehicles

Programming Software For OBD II Vehicles

• The Honda Diagnostic System Software Package
  The HDS software package can be used to program control modules. Refer to the Honda Diagnostic System Software Package section for details and ordering information.
  

OR

• Honda-Supplied J2534 Reprogramming Software (To check availability of the J2534, Click here)
  American Honda offers SAE J2534 compliant software for Honda and Acura vehicles. The J2534 standard enables independent repair facilities to reprogram emissions-related electronic control modules on a wide variety of vehicles with a single pass-thru device, starting with model year 2001. This J2534 software, when used with a J2534 pass-thru device, will automatically check for the latest vehicle calibration information.
  

NOTE: It is possible to damage the vehicle's electronic control modules during the reprogramming process. Once the reprogramming process has started, the process must NOT be interrupted until the process is complete. If you experience any problems, contact your toolmaker or supplier. Do not contact American Honda or Honda/Acura dealers directly.

Hardware and software requirements:

PC or laptop with:

• Windows 2000 or Windows XP Professional operating system.
  NOTE: Windows XP Home Edition and Vista cannot be used.
  

• Internet connection (high-speed connection recommended).

SAE J2534 compliant pass-thru device.

• A pass-thru device must be purchased separately from a third-party supplier.
  

• American Honda does not recommend a specific J2534 device. Follow the manufacturer’s operating procedures when using this equipment.

Enrollment procedure:

• The software subscription cost is $300. Software subscriptions expire 365-days from the date of purchase.
  

• Subscription covers all applicable Honda and Acura vehicles.
  

• Subscription includes access to downloadable Honda and Acura J2534 software, plus PC updates.
  

• Software is delivered over the Internet (DSL or high-speed connection is recommended due to file size).

• If a high-speed connection is not available, the software can be supplied on a CD at no additional cost.
  

• Reprogramming should only be performed according to Honda or Acura service bulletins.

Programming Tools for OBD II Vehicles

Current and previous tools offered have had the ability to be used for vehicle diagnostic purposes as well as CM programming, except for the Smart Cable. These tools are referred to as Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) Tools. Refer to the “Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) Tools” section for more details.

1. GNA600 Kit
   Refer to GNA600 Kit under “Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) Tools” section for details.
   

2. Smart Cable Kit - rental (To check availability of the Smart Cable Kit, Click here)
   The Smart Cable is a handheld device that allows you to update the control module on all 1996-1999 Acura SLXs and 1996-2002 Honda Passports with a new calibration. This unit connects to any PC using Windows 2000 or Windows XP Professional operating system and an Internet connection. NOTE: Windows XP Home Edition or Vista cannot be used.

Hardware and software requirements:

• PC or laptop using Windows 2000 or Windows XP Professional operating system and an Internet connection.
  NOTE: Windows XP Home Edition or Vista cannot be used.
  

• An RS232 port to connect PC to Smart Cable.
  

• Active subscription to ServiceExpress (At minimum, a 3-day subscription is required to rent the Smart Cable tool, subscribe to software updates, and get access to the latest documentation. We recommend that you periodically update your subscription to check for the latest related bulletins, newsletters, and service manual procedures.)

Rental procedures:

• Smart Cable Kit rental is $155* for 3 days. This includes next-day-shipping both ways, the latest software, an AC power supply, and PC interface cable.
  

• Software includes step-by-step operating instructions, all available Honda Passport/Acura SLX calibrations, and the ability to detect the proper calibration automatically.

* Pricing is subject to change without notice.

Control Module Initialization for Honda and Acura Vehicles With an Immobilizer

For Honda and Acura vehicles with Immobilizer (All 2007 and earlier)

Honda Interface Module (HIM) (To check availability of the HIM, Click here)
The HIM, a handheld device that allows you to initialize replacement control modules and authorization code, will be required.

You may rent the HIM tool if your shop doesn’t have one. In either case, you will need an authorization code specific to the control module you are replacing. (Refer to Matrix)

Rental and access code request information:

• HIM rental is $155.00 for 3 days. This includes prepaid shipping both ways via UPS Next Day Air, insurance, and return packaging.
  

• Upon receipt of your rental request, Helm will put a reserve on your credit card for the full value of the HIM and software.
  

• If your shop already has a HIM tool, you will not be charged a rental fee. There is no charge for the PCM initialization software and code. However, you still need to submit the PCM Initialization Tool Rental/Code Authorization Request form to get the latest software and code.

• Requests received by 11:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time will be shipped the same day. Requests received after 11:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time will be shipped the next business day.

• You will need to download the software and loading instructions directly from the Helm Web site.

Ordering procedure:

1. Complete the online PCM Initialization Tool Rental/Code Authorization Request form. To process your request, you will be required to provide your business name, address, business license number, shop owner’s name, and credit card information.
   

2. Helm will call your shop to verify that you are prepared to perform PCM Initialization (HIM, software, instructions, PC, vehicle, parts, PCM, etc.). All of the components must be in place before a code will be supplied.
   

3. Once Helm is satisfied that you are prepared, they will obtain the PCM initialization code from Honda, and then call you back.
   NOTE:The initialization code is good only for the day that you receive it.

Control Module Initialization:

To perform the initialization, you will need:

1. Access to a HIM tool, PC interface cable, and AC power supply.
   
   
2. Access to the latest PCM initialization information. (Log on to ServiceExpress, click on the Service Info screen, enter the model and year, then enter the keyword IMMOBI.)
   
   
3. PC or laptop configured with these items:
   • Windows 2000 or Windows XP Professional operating system. NOTE: Windows XP Home Edition or Vista cannot be used.
     
     
   • RS232 port is required. If an RS232 port is not available, a USB-to-serial adapter may be used to communicate between the HIM and your computer. Consult the Aftermarket HDS Multiplatform Software Installation Instructions for a list of approved adapters.
     
     
   • A monitor capable of displaying in VGA mode or above (1024 x 768 recommended)
     
     
   • A hard drive with at least 400MB of free space
     
     
   • A CD-ROM drive (If a high-speed connection is not available, software can be supplied on a CD at no additional cost.)
     
     
   • An Internet connection (DSL or broadband high-speed connection recommended due to file size.)
     
     

For Honda and Acura vehicles with Immobilizer (All 2008 and later)

For 2008 model year and later vehicles, a programming tool is not necessary to perform a CM initialization, but you will need an Access Code and procedure instructions. (refer to Matrix)

Hardware and software requirements:

• Aftermarket tools capable of writing a VIN number to Honda/Acura ECUs or Honda Diagnostic System (HDS); refer to Honda Diagnostic System Personal Computer (PC) Software for details.
  NOTE: Required because after the ECM/PCM is replaced, the MIL will come on due to the lack of a VIN number.

Ordering procedure:

1. Complete the online PCM Initialization Code Authorization Request form. To process your request, you will be required to provide your business name, address, business license number, shop owner’s name, and credit card information.
   
   
2. Helm will call your shop to verify that you are prepared to perform PCM initialization (vehicle, new PCM, original key, etc.). All of the components must be in place before a code will be supplied.
   NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with a smart key (e.g., 2005 and later Acura RLs), a mechanical key must be made and used instead.
   
   Honda and Acura models with Maintenance Minder Systems will require the engine oil, oil filter, and automatic transmission fluid be replaced along with the replacement of the PCM. This is necessary so that the Maintenance Minder matches the new PCM. The engine oil and automatic transmission fluid should meet Honda and Acura specification and capacity requirements. For more information, refer to the Maintenance section of the appropriate service manual.
   
   
3. Once Helm is satisfied that you are prepared, they will obtain the PCM initialization code from Honda, and then call you back.
   NOTE: The initialization code is good only for the day that you receive it.

Control Module initialization:

Instructions will be provided when the code is supplied.

Control Module Initialization Matrix

Models That Can Be Reprogrammed

Only the ECM/PCM can be reprogrammed for the following models and years:

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