SB-12-032

SB-10051799-1825
Service Bulletin
Applies To:
12-032
September 7, 2013
Acura Vehicles with Programmable HFL Control Units
Updating Programmable HFL (HFT) Control Units
(Supersedes 12-032, dated April 3, 2013, to revise the information marked by the black bars)
REVISION SUMMARY
Two items were removed from this bulletin that no
longer apply.
The procedures in this service bulletin are used and
referenced in other service bulletins.
This bulletin describes the procedure to update the
software in programmable HandsFreeLink (HFL)
control units.
This bulletin consists of two procedures:
• Vehicles without Navigation, page 2.
• Vehicles with Navigation, page 9.
This service bulletin also describes these subjects:
• Required tools and equipment
• Updating tips and precautions
• Who to contact for questions or problems when
using Acura–supplied updating equipment, including
software and tools
NOTE: Whenever you install a new HFL control unit,
check that it has the latest software, and update it if
needed.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Refer to the specific service bulletin for the symptom
you are repairing.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE UPDATING EQUIPMENT
OR THE INTERACTIVE NETWORK
For cellular phone compatibility listings or required
settings, call JCI Technical Support at 888-528-7876.
For HFL PC software installation or Bluetooth pairing
issues, call the iN Support Center at 800-245-4343.
For HFL module reprogramming (vehicle side) and
general troubleshooting, call Tech Line at
800-228-7210.
.
REQUIRED TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
• A laptop PC, loaded with the newest version of the
HDS software, and equipped with the minimum
requirements:
- Any version of Windows listed below:
• Windows XP (32-bit), at least 512 MB RAM,
and Service Pack 2
• Windows Vista/7 (32-bit), at least 1 GB RAM
• Windows 7, (64-bit), at least 2 GB RAM
- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86)
or 64-bit (x64) processor
- At least 16 GB of available hard disk space (32-bit)
or at least 20 GB hard disk space (64-bit; Windows
7 only)
- Windows Vista Only: Support for DirectX 9
graphics with WDDM and at least 128 MB of
graphics memory (32 MB for Home Basic)
- Windows 7 Only: DirectX 9 Graphics device
with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver
- The Microsoft.NET Framework software
application: Version 2.0 or later
NOTE: This is available to download for free;
go to microsoft.com or ask your system
administrator for assistance.
• The latest version of the HDS software installed on
this computer.
• A recognized Bluetooth radio device installed on this
computer. If one is required, order P/N: CDWF8T016
from the Tool and Equipment Program (on iN, click
on: Service > Quick Links > Tool and Equipment
Program), or choose a commercially-available
device from the list below.
Brand
Model #
OS*
32-bit
64-bit
Targus1
ACB10
ALL
X
X
Cirago2
BTA-3210
ALL
X
X
IO Gear1
GBU421
ALL
X
X
Rocketfish1
RF-MRBTAD
ALL
X
X
* Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7
Operating System
 2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. – All Rights Reserved
1 Use
Widcomm (Broadcom) Bluetooth drivers.
2 Use
Toshiba Bluetooth drivers.
BTB 48126-50377-REV4 (1309)
1 of 15
CLIENT INFORMATION: The information in this bulletin is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment, and
training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These procedures should not be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this
bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized
Acura automobile dealer.
HFL CONTROL UNIT UPDATE PROCEDURE
Vehicles without Navigation
NOTE: Failure to follow the procedures and
precautions in this bulletin may damage the HFL
control unit.
4. Press and hold the PHONE button for at least 5
seconds to enter the HFL diagnostic mode. One of
the following screens appears: “A-Diag XXXXX OK”
or “A-Diag ---.”
1. Connect a jumper battery to the vehicle and leave it
connected during this entire procedure to maintain
a steady voltage.
2. Press the engine start/stop button to select the
vehicle ON mode.
3. Press and hold the audio preset No. 1 button, then
press and hold the audio preset No. 6 button. Press
and hold the Volume/Power knob. Release the
buttons and the knob once the audio unit enters
into the self-diagnosis mode and the “A-Diag DIAG”
screen appears.
VOLUME/POWER KNOB
NUMBER 1
BUTTON
PHONE BUTTON
2 of 15
NUMBER 6
BUTTON
SELECTOR KNOB
12-032
5. On the HDS laptop, double-click the HFL Control
Unit Update icon to launch the Honda HFL (HFT)
Control Unit Update Tool (HFL update tool).
NOTE: The HDS laptop must be connected to an
AC outlet during the reflash process and must be
within a distance of 21 feet to the vehicle. Do not
allow the HDS laptop to go into sleep or hibernate
mode during the reflash process. If this occurs, the
Bluetooth connectivity between the HDS laptop and
the vehicle’s HFL system will be dropped, and the
reflash process will be interrupted. It will then be
necessary to restart the reflash procedure. See
your laptop manufacturer’s instructions or your
system administrator for assistance to change
these settings.
7. Press the selector knob on the audio unit to change
the HFL update screen. A four-digit PIN code
appears. Write it down on a piece of paper or on
the RO, and leave it in the vehicle.
NOTE: This PIN is required to complete the HFL
update and to re-establish communication if the
update process is interrupted. If this PIN is lost,
forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, and an
interruption to the reflash process occurs, the HFL
control unit will remain stuck in reflash mode, and
you will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
8. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left-hand corner of the HFL Control
Unit Update screen to prepare the HDS laptop for
the pairing process with the vehicle’s HFL control
unit.
6. Press the audio preset No. 2 button several times
until the “A-diag UPDATE” screen appears
on the i-MID.
NOTE: If an active Bluetooth adapter is not found
on the HDS laptop, this error message will appear.
Please review the REQUIRED TOOLS AND
EQUIPMENT section of this publication for a
recognized Bluetooth device. Contact your IT
support for additional help.
12-032
3 of 15
9. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after 30 seconds, click on
Refresh.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go back to step 2.
11. In the HFL update tool, enter the four-digit PIN from
the vehicle’s display screen into the lower left-hand
corner of the pop-up window. Click on Pair to begin
the pairing process.
10. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
NOTE: Leave the PIN you wrote down in step 7
with the vehicle. The PIN is required to complete
the HFL update and to re-establish communication
if the update process is interrupted. If this PIN is
lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL
control unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you
will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
12. Wait for the HFL update tool to complete the
Bluetooth pairing process.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed on the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
4 of 15
12-032
13. In the HFL update tool, the “Open Update Package”
window pops up when the Bluetooth pairing
process is complete. The HFL update tool
automatically determines which version of the HFL
software is present, and which updates are on the
HDS laptop. Click OK to begin the HFL control unit
reflash process.
NOTE: If the HFL software is current and no update
is required, the following notification pops up on the
HDS laptop.
12-032
14. The HFL reflash process begins. Allow several
minutes for the programming to complete. The blue
bars indicate the programming status and
progression.
NOTE: Do not press the engine start/stop button to
select the OFF mode while the HDS laptop is
transferring files to the HFL control unit. Doing so
will damage the HFL control unit. If Bluetooth
connectivity between the HDS laptop and the HFL
control unit is lost, the ignition must remain ON, but
the HDS laptop may be rebooted and the HFL
update tool may be restarted, using the four-digit
PIN recorded in step 7.
5 of 15
15. On the HFL update tool, a pop-up window alerts
you when the reflash process is finalizing, and then
another pop-up informs you that the reflash
process is complete. Click OK.
17. The vehicle’s display screen indicates the update
status:
• If successful, an update screen and subsequent
“updated successfully” messages are displayed.
Press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode. Go to step 18.
• If not successful, a confirmation screen indicates
that the process failed. Disregard the reference
to the service manual. Go to step 20.
NOTE: Wait at least 10 seconds before continuing
to the next step.
NOTE: Failure to wait for the HFL update tool
message “Updates Complete” to display prior to
pressing the star/stop button to select the OFF
mode will interrupt the HFL programming and will
damage the HFL control unit.
16. The HFL update tool will indicate the update is
complete, and automatically disconnects the
Bluetooth connection from the HFL control unit.
Close the HFL update tool by clicking on the “X” in
the upper right-hand corner.
6 of 15
18. Confirm the HFL control unit is updated: Repeat
steps 2 through 4, then go to step 19.
12-032
19. Press the audio preset No. 2 button several times
to cycle through the display screens until you see
the “A-Diag XX.XX.X” screen. Verify that the
correct software version is installed.
NOTE: The first “A-Diag” screen displays the first
five digits of the software version. Press the No. 2
button to see the last two digits.
20. Press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF
mode.
21. Repeat steps 2 through 6, then go to step 22.
22. Press the selector knob on the audio unit to change
the HFL update screen. A different PIN code is
displayed; ignore it. You will use the PIN you wrote
down in step 7.
NOTE: The original PIN is required to complete the
HFL update and to re-establish communication if
the update process is interrupted. If the original PIN
is lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, and an
interruption to the reflash process occurs, the HFL
control unit will remain stuck in reflash mode, and
you will be unable to complete the HFL update. If
this happens, you must replace the HFL control
unit.
23. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
to pair the vehicle’s HFL control unit to the HDS
laptop.
If an “A-Diag ---” screen appears, turn the audio
unit OFF. Repeat steps 2 and 3 then press the
“PHONE” button for at least 5 seconds. The HFL
diagnostic screen is now visible. Press the audio
preset button No. 2 until the “A-Diag XX.XX.X”
screen is displayed. Verify that the correct software
version is installed.
• If the software is updated to the correct version,
press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode. The reflash process is complete.
• If the software is not updated, go to step 20.
12-032
NOTE: If an active Bluetooth adapter is not found
on the HDS laptop, this error message will appear.
Review the REQUIRED TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
section of this publication for a recognized
Bluetooth device. Contact your IT support for
additional help.
7 of 15
24. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after 30 seconds, click on the
Refresh button.
26. In the HFL update tool, enter the original 4-digit PIN
(recorded in step 7) into the lower left corner of the
popup window. Click Pair to start the pairing
process again.
NOTE: If the original PIN is lost, forgotten, or
otherwise misplaced, the HFL control unit will be
stuck in reflash mode, and you will be unable to
complete the HFL update. If this happens, you must
replace the HFL control unit.
27. Repeat steps 11 through 17 to repeat the HFL
control unit update procedure.
25. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID Code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed on the HFL update tool “Pair With
HFL(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from
the list.
8 of 15
12-032
Vehicles with Navigation
NOTE: Failure to follow the procedures and
precautions in this bulletin may damage the HFL
control unit.
4. Rotate the interface dial to select “Self Diagnosis
Mode,” then press ENTER on the interface dial.
1. Connect a jumper battery to the vehicle and leave it
connected during this entire procedure to maintain
a steady voltage.
2. Press the engine start/stop button to select the
vehicle ON mode.
3. Wait for the navigation system to boot up. When
the “OK” screen appears, press and hold the MAP/
GUIDE, the DEST/ROUTE, and the CANCEL
buttons for at least 3 seconds to access “Select
Diagnosis Items.”
5. The “System Link” screen appears and does an
automatic diagnostic check. Wait a few moments
while the process completes. Once completed,
rotate the interface dial to select HFL and press
ENTER using the interface dial.
MAP/
GUIDE
BUTTON
DEST/
ROUTE
BUTTON
CANCEL BUTTON
INTERFACE DIAL
12-032
9 of 15
6. In the HFL update tool, double-click the HFL
Control Unit Update icon to launch the Honda HFL
(HFT) Control Unit Update Tool (HFL update tool).
NOTE: The HDS laptop must be connected to an
AC outlet during the reflash process and must be
within a distance of 21 feet to the vehicle. Do not
allow the HDS laptop to go into sleep or hibernate
mode during the reflash process. If this occurs, the
Bluetooth connectivity between the HDS laptop and
the vehicle’s HFL system is dropped, and the
reflash process is interrupted. It will then be
necessary to restart the reflash procedure. See
your laptop manufacturer’s instructions or your
system administrator for assistance to change
these settings.
10 of 15
7. Rotate the interface dial to select “Software
Update” in the HFL menu. Press ENTER on the
interface dial to set the HFL system into reflash
readiness mode.
NOTE: If either GA-NET or DESIP is NG, the
Software Update button will be grayed out, and you
won’t be able to proceed with this procedure. You
must troubleshoot for and repair any NG conditions
before continuing.
8. The HFL software update screen will display a
4-digit PIN code. Write it down on a piece of paper
or on the RO and leave it in the vehicle.
NOTE: This PIN is required to complete the HFL
update and to re-establish communication if the
update process is interrupted. If this PIN is lost,
forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL control
unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you will be
unable to complete the update. If this happens, you
must replace the HFL control unit.
12-032
9. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left corner of the “HFL Control Unit
Update” screen in the HDS laptop to allow pairing
with the vehicle’s HFL.
11. In the HFL update tool, select the Bluetooth device
from the list that matches the HandsFreeLink ID
code shown in the navigation display.
NOTE: If an active Bluetooth adapter is not found
on the HDS laptop, this error message will appear.
Review the REQUIRED TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
section of this publication for a recognized
Bluetooth device. Contact your IT support for
additional help.
10. In the HDS laptop, the “Pair with HFL” window pops
up. Wait a few seconds for the display to show “All
Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no devices are
found after about 30 seconds, click Refresh.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed in the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go to step 2.
12-032
11 of 15
12. In the HFL update tool, once the Bluetooth device
has been detected, enter the four-digit PIN from the
vehicle’s display screen into the lower left-hand
corner of the pop-up window. Click Pair to begin
the pairing process.
13. Wait for the HFL update tool to complete the
Bluetooth pairing process.
14. In the HFL update tool, the “Open Update Package”
window pops up when the Bluetooth pairing
process is complete. The HFL update tool
automatically determines which version of the HFL
software is present. The compatible updates will be
displayed on the HFL update tool. Click OK to
begin the HFL control unit reflash process.
NOTE: Leave the PIN you wrote down in step 8
with the vehicle. This PIN is required to complete
the HFL update and to re-establish communication
if the update process is interrupted. If this PIN is
lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL
control unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you
will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
12 of 15
NOTE: If the HFL software is current and no update
is required, you will see the following notification on
the HFL update tool.
12-032
15. The HFL rellash process begins. Allow several
minutes for the programming to complete. The blue
bars indicate the programming status and
progression.
NOTE: Do not press the engine start/stop button to
select the OFF mode while the HFL update tool is
transferring files to the HFL control unit. Doing so
may damage the HFL control unit. If the Bluetooth
connectivity between the HDS laptop and the HFL
control unit is lost, the ignition must remain ON, but
the HDS laptop may be rebooted and the HFL
update tool may be restarted, using the four-digit
PIN you wrote down in step 8.
17. In the HFL update tool, a popup window informs
you that the reflash process is complete. Click OK.
NOTE: Failure to wait for the HFL update tool
message “Updates Complete” to display prior to
pressing the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode will interrupt the HFL programming and
will damage the HFL control unit.
18. The HFL update tool will indicate the update is
complete, and automatically disconnects the
Bluetooth connection from the vehicle’s HFL control
unit. Close the HFL update tool by clicking on the
“X” in the upper right-hand corner.
16. In the HFL update tool, a popup window alerts you
when the reflash process is finalizing.
12-032
13 of 15
19. Confirm that the software update was successful:
• Press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode.
• Wait at least 10 seconds.
• Repeat steps 2 through 5.
• If the software is updated to the current version,
the reflash process is complete. Press the engine
start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
• If the software did not update to the current
version, go to step 20.
23. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left corner of the screen to pair with the
vehicle’s HFL control unit.
NOTE: If an active Bluetooth adapter is not found
on the HDS laptop, this error message will appear.
Review the REQUIRED TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
section of this publication for a recognized
Bluetooth device. Contact your IT support for
additional help.
20. Press the engine start/stop button to select
the OFF mode.
21. Repeat steps 2 through 7, then go to step 22.
22. The HFL update screen will display a 4-digit PIN.
Disregard this PIN; you will use the original PIN
acquired in step 8.
24. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after approximately 30 seconds,
click Refresh.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go back to step 20.
14 of 15
12-032
25. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
26. Once a device is detected, enter the previous
4-digit PIN from step 8 into the lower left-hand
corner of the popup window in the HFL update tool,
if it is onot already displayed. Click Pair to begin the
pairing process.
NOTE: If the original PIN is lost, forgotten, or
otherwise misplaced, the HFL control unit will be
stuck in reflash mode and you will be unable to
complete the update. If this happens, you must
replace the HFL control unit.
27. Repeat steps 13 through 19.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed in the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
12-032
15 of 15

SB-10051799-3508
Service Bulletin
Applies To:
12-032
March 21, 2013
Acura Vehicles with Programmable HFL Control Units
Updating Programmable HFL (HFT) Control Units
(Supersedes 12-032, dated December 21, 2012, to revise the information marked by the black bars)
REVISION SUMMARY
Under the subheading QUESTIONS ABOUT THE
UPDATING EQUIPMENT OR THE INTERACTIVE
NETWORK, the phone number for American Honda’s
Special Tools hotline was deleted, and new technical
assistance contact information was added.
REQUIRED TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
• A laptop PC, loaded with the newest version of the
HDS software, and equipped with the minimum
requirements:
- Any version of Windows listed below:
• Windows XP (32-bit), at least 512 MB RAM,
and Service Pack 2
The procedures in this service bulletin are used and
referenced in other service bulletins.
This bulletin describes the procedure to update the
software in programmable HandsFreeLink (HFL)
control units.
This bulletin consists of two procedures:
• Vehicles without Navigation, page 2.
• Vehicles with Navigation, page 9.
This service bulletin also describes these subjects:
• Required tools and equipment
• Updating tips and precautions
• Who to contact for questions or problems when
using Acura–supplied updating equipment, including
software and tools
NOTE: Whenever you install a new HFL control unit,
check that it has the latest software, and update it if
needed.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Refer to the specific service bulletin for the symptom
you are repairing.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE UPDATING EQUIPMENT
OR THE INTERACTIVE NETWORK
For questions about the software application, refer to
the job aid titled Acura HFL (HFT) Control Unit Update
User’s Guide, available on ISIS.
• Windows Vista/7 (32-bit), at least 1 GB RAM
• Windows 7, (64-bit), at least 2 GB RAM
- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86)
or 64-bit (x64) processor
- At least 16 GB of available hard disk space (32-bit)
or at least 20 GB hard disk space (64-bit; Windows
7 only)
- Windows Vista Only: Support for DirectX 9
graphics with WDDM and at least 128 MB of
graphics memory (32 MB for Home Basic)
- Windows 7 Only: DirectX 9 Graphics device
with WDDM 1.0 or higher driver
- The Microsoft.NET Framework software
application: Version 2.0 or later
NOTE: This is available to download for free;
go to microsoft.com or ask your system
administrator for assistance.
• The latest version of the HDS software installed on
this computer.
• A recognized Bluetooth radio device installed on this
computer. If one is required, order P/N: CDWF8T016
from the Tool and Equipment Program (on iN, click
on: Service > Quick Links > Tool and Equipment
Program), or choose a commercially-available
device from the list below.
Brand
Model #
OS*
32-bit
64-bit
Belkin1
F8T016
ALL
X
X
Cirago2
BTA-3210
ALL
X
X
For cellular phone compatibility listings or required
settings, call JCI Technical Support at 888-528-7876.
IO Gear1
GBU421
ALL
X
X
Rocketfish1
RF-MRBTAD
ALL
X
X
For HFL PC software installation or Bluetooth pairing
issues, call the the iN Support Center at 800-245-4343.
Targus1
ACB10
ALL
X
X
For HFL module reprogramming (vehicle side) and
general troubleshooting, call Tech Line at
800-228-7210.
.
 2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. – All Rights Reserved
* Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7
Operating System
1
Use Widcomm (Broadcom) Bluetooth drivers.
2 Use
BTB 48126-49157-REV2 (1303)
Toshiba Bluetooth drivers.
1 of 15
CLIENT INFORMATION: The information in this bulletin is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment, and
training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These procedures should not be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this
bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized
Acura automobile dealer.
HFL CONTROL UNIT UPDATE PROCEDURE
Vehicles without Navigation
NOTE: Failure to follow the procedures and
precautions in this bulletin may damage the HFL
control unit.
4. Press and hold the PHONE button for at least 5
seconds to enter the HFL diagnostic mode. One of
the following screens appears: “A-Diag XXXXX OK”
or “A-Diag ---.”
1. Connect a jumper battery to the vehicle and leave it
connected during this entire procedure to maintain
a steady voltage.
2. Press the engine start/stop button to select the
vehicle ON mode.
3. Press and hold the audio preset No. 1 button, then
press and hold the audio preset No. 6 button. Press
and hold the Volume/Power knob. Release the
buttons and the knob once the audio unit enters
into the self-diagnosis mode and the “A-Diag DIAG”
screen appears.
VOLUME/POWER KNOB
NUMBER 1
BUTTON
PHONE BUTTON
2 of 15
NUMBER 6
BUTTON
SELECTOR KNOB
12-032
5. On the HDS laptop, double-click the HFL Control
Unit Update icon to launch the Honda HFL (HFT)
Control Unit Update Tool (HFL update tool).
NOTE: The HDS laptop must be connected to an
AC outlet during the reflash process and must be
within a distance of 21 feet to the vehicle. Do not
allow the HDS laptop to go into sleep or hibernate
mode during the reflash process. If this occurs, the
Bluetooth connectivity between the HDS laptop and
the vehicle’s HFL system will be dropped, and the
reflash process will be interrupted. It will then be
necessary to restart the reflash procedure. See
your laptop manufacturer’s instructions or your
system administrator for assistance to change
these settings.
7. Press the selector knob on the audio unit to change
the HFL update screen. A four-digit PIN code
appears. Write it down on a piece of paper or on
the RO, and leave it in the vehicle.
NOTE: This PIN is required to complete the HFL
update and to re-establish communication if the
update process is interrupted. If this PIN is lost,
forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, and an
interruption to the reflash process occurs, the HFL
control unit will remain stuck in reflash mode, and
you will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
8. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left-hand corner of the HFL Control
Unit Update screen to prepare the HDS laptop for
the pairing process with the vehicle’s HFL control
unit.
6. Press the audio preset No. 2 button several times
until the “A-diag UPDATE” screen appears
on the i-MID.
12-032
3 of 15
9. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after 30 seconds, click on
Refresh.
11. In the HFL update tool, enter the four-digit PIN from
the vehicle’s display screen into the lower left-hand
corner of the pop-up window. Click on Pair to begin
the pairing process.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go back to step 2.
10. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
NOTE: Leave the PIN you wrote down in step 7
with the vehicle. The PIN is required to complete
the HFL update and to re-establish communication
if the update process is interrupted. If this PIN is
lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL
control unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you
will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
12. Wait for the HFL update tool to complete the
Bluetooth pairing process.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed on the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
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13. In the HFL update tool, the “Open Update Package”
window pops up when the Bluetooth pairing
process is complete. The HFL update tool
automatically determines which version of the HFL
software is present, and which updates are on the
HDS laptop. Click OK to begin the HFL control unit
reflash process.
NOTE: If the HFL software is current and no update
is required, the following notification pops up on the
HDS laptop.
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14. The HFL reflash process begins. Allow several
minutes for the programming to complete. The blue
bars indicate the programming status and
progression.
NOTE: Do not press the engine start/stop button to
select the OFF mode while the HDS laptop is
transferring files to the HFL control unit. Doing so
will damage the HFL control unit. If Bluetooth
connectivity between the HDS laptop and the HFL
control unit is lost, the ignition must remain ON, but
the HDS laptop may be rebooted and the HFL
update tool may be restarted, using the four-digit
PIN recorded in step 7.
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15. On the HFL update tool, a popup window alerts you
when the reflash process is finalizing, and then
another popup informs you that the reflash process
is complete. Click OK.
17. The vehicle’s display screen indicates the update
status:
• If successful, an update screen and subsequent
“updated successfully” messages are displayed.
Press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode. Go to step 18.
• If not successful, a confirmation screen indicates
that the process failed. Disregard the reference
to the service manual. Go to step 20.
NOTE: Wait at least 10 seconds before continuing
to the next step.
NOTE: Failure to wait for the HFL update tool
message “Updates Complete” to display prior to
pressing the star/stop button to select the OFF
mode will interrupt the HFL programming and will
damage the HFL control unit.
16. The HFL update tool will indicate the update is
complete, and automatically disconnects the
Bluetooth connection from the HFL control unit.
Close the HFL update tool by clicking on the “X” in
the upper right-hand corner.
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18. Confirm the HFL control unit is updated: Repeat
steps 2 through 4, then go to step 19.
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19. Press the audio preset No. 2 button several times
to cycle through the display screens until you see
the “A-Diag XX.XX.X” screen. Verify that the
correct software version is installed.
20. Press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF
mode.
NOTE: The first “A-Diag” screen displays the first
five digits of the software version. Press the No. 2
button to see the last two digits.
22. Press the selector knob on the audio unit to change
the HFL update screen. A different PIN code is
displayed; ignore it. You’ll use the PIN you wrote
down in step 7.
NOTE: The original PIN is required to complete the
HFL update and to re-establish communication if
the update process is interrupted. If the original PIN
is lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, and an
interruption to the reflash process occurs, the HFL
control unit will remain stuck in reflash mode, and
you will be unable to complete the HFL update. If
this happens, you must replace the HFL control
unit.
21. Repeat steps 2 through 6, then go to step 22.
23. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
to pair the vehicle’s HFL control unit to the HDS
laptop.
If an “A-Diag ---” screen appears, turn the audio
unit OFF. Repeat steps 2 and 3 then press the
“PHONE” button for at least 5 seconds. The HFL
diagnostic screen is now visible. Press the audio
preset button No. 2 until the “A-Diag XX.XX.X”
screen is displayed. Verify that the correct software
version is installed.
• If the software is updated to the correct version,
press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode. The reflash process is complete.
• If the software is not updated, go to step 20.
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24. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after 30 seconds, click on the
Refresh button.
26. In the HFL update tool, enter the original 4-digit PIN
(recorded in step 7) into the lower left corner of the
popup window. Click Pair to start the pairing
process again.
NOTE: If the original PIN is lost, forgotten, or
otherwise misplaced, the HFL control unit will be
stuck in reflash mode, and you will be unable to
complete the HFL update. If this happens, you must
replace the HFL control unit.
27. Repeat steps 11 through 17 to repeat the HFL
control unit update procedure.
25. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID Code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed on the HFL update tool “Pair With
HFL(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from
the list.
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Vehicles with Navigation
NOTE: Failure to follow the procedures and
precautions in this bulletin may damage the HFL
control unit.
4. Rotate the interface dial to select “Self Diagnosis
Mode,” then press ENTER on the interface dial.
1. Connect a jumper battery to the vehicle and leave it
connected during this entire procedure to maintain
a steady voltage.
2. Press the engine start/stop button to select the
vehicle ON mode.
3. Wait for the navigation system to boot up. When
the “OK” screen appears, press and hold the MAP/
GUIDE, the DEST/ROUTE, and the CANCEL
buttons for at least 3 seconds to access “Select
Diagnosis Items.”
5. The “System Link” screen appears and does an
automatic diagnostic check. Wait a few moments
while the process completes. Once completed,
rotate the interface dial to select HFL and press
ENTER using the interface dial.
MAP/
GUIDE
BUTTON
DEST/
ROUTE
BUTTON
CANCEL BUTTON
INTERFACE DIAL
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6. In the HFL update tool, double-click the HFL
Control Unit Update icon to launch the Honda HFL
(HFT) Control Unit Update Tool (HFL update tool).
7. Rotate the interface dial to select “Software
Update” in the HFL menu. Press ENTER on the
interface dial to set the HFL system into reflash
readiness mode.
NOTE: If either GA-NET or DESIP is NG, the
Software Update button will be grayed out, and you
won’t be able to proceed with this procedure. You
must troubleshoot for and repair any NG conditions
before continuing.
NOTE: The HDS laptop must be connected to an
AC outlet during the reflash process and must be
within a distance of 21 feet to the vehicle. Do not
allow the HDS laptop to go into sleep or hibernate
mode during the reflash process. If this occurs, the
Bluetooth connectivity between the HDS laptop and
the vehicle’s HFL system is dropped, and the
reflash process is interrupted. It will then be
necessary to restart the reflash procedure. See
your laptop manufacturer’s instructions or your
system administrator for assistance to change
these settings.
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8. The HFL software update screen will display a
4-digit PIN code. Write it down on a piece of paper
or on the RO and leave it in the vehicle.
NOTE: This PIN is required to complete the HFL
update and to re-establish communication if the
update process is interrupted. If this PIN is lost,
forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL control
unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you will be
unable to complete the update. If this happens, you
must replace the HFL control unit.
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9. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left corner of the “HFL Control Unit
Update” screen in the HDS laptop to allow pairing
with the vehicle’s HFL.
11. In the HFL update tool, select the Bluetooth device
from the list that matches the HandsFreeLink ID
code shown in the navigation display.
10. In the HDS laptop, the “Pair with HFL” window pops
up. Wait a few seconds for the display to show “All
Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no devices are
found after about 30 seconds, click Refresh.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed in the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go to step 2.
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12. In the HFL update tool, once the Bluetooth device
has been detected, enter the four-digit PIN from the
vehicle’s display screen into the lower left-hand
corner of the pop-up window. Click Pair to begin
the pairing process.
13. Wait for the HFL update tool to complete the
Bluetooth pairing process.
14. In the HFL update tool, the “Open Update Package”
window pops up when the Bluetooth pairing
process is complete. The HFL update tool
automatically determines which version of the HFL
software is present. The compatible updates will be
displayed on the HFL update tool. Click OK to
begin the HFL control unit reflash process.
NOTE: Leave the PIN you wrote down in step 8
with the vehicle. This PIN is required to complete
the HFL update and to re-establish communication
if the update process is interrupted. If this PIN is
lost, forgotten, or otherwise misplaced, the HFL
control unit will be stuck in reflash mode, and you
will be unable to complete the update. If this
happens, you must replace the HFL control unit.
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NOTE: If the HFL software is current and no update
is required, you will see the following notification on
the HFL update tool.
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15. The HFL reflash process begins. Allow several
minutes for the programming to complete. The blue
bars indicate the programming status and
progression.
NOTE: Do not press the engine start/stop button to
select the OFF mode while the HFL update tool is
transferring files to the HFL control unit. Doing so
may damage the HFL control unit. If the Bluetooth
connectivity between the HDS laptop and the HFL
control unit is lost, the ignition must remain ON, but
the HDS laptop may be rebooted and the HFL
update tool may be restarted, using the four-digit
PIN you wrote down in step 8.
17. In the HFL update tool, a popup window informs
you that the reflash process is complete. Click OK.
NOTE: Failure to wait for the HFL update tool
message “Updates Complete” to display prior to
pressing the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode will interrupt the HFL programming and
will damage the HFL control unit.
18. The HFL update tool will indicate the update is
complete, and automatically disconnects the
Bluetooth connection from the vehicle’s HFL control
unit. Close the HFL update tool by clicking on the
“X” in the upper right-hand corner.
16. In the HFL update tool, a popup window alerts you
when the reflash process is finalizing.
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19. Confirm that the software update was successful:
• Press the engine start/stop button to select the
OFF mode.
23. In the HFL update tool, click on the Bluetooth icon
in the upper left corner of the screen to pair with the
vehicle’s HFL control unit.
• Wait at least 10 seconds.
• Repeat steps 2 through 5.
• If the software is updated to the current version,
the reflash process is complete. Press the engine
start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
• If the software did not update to the current
version, go to step 20.
24. In the HFL update tool, the “Pair with HFL” window
pops up. Wait a few seconds for the display to
show “All Detected Bluetooth Devices.” If no
devices are found after approximately 30 seconds,
click Refresh.
20. Press the engine start/stop button to select
the OFF mode.
21. Repeat steps 2 through 7, then go to step 22.
22. The HFL update screen will display a 4-digit PIN.
Disregard this PIN; you’ll use the original PIN
acquired in step 8.
NOTE: If the HFL control unit is unable to establish
a Bluetooth connection with the HFL update tool
after 5 minutes, it times out. If this occurs, reboot
the HDS laptop, press the engine start/stop button
to select the OFF mode, and go back to step 20.
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25. In the HFL update tool, select the correct Bluetooth
device (if more than one appears) that matches the
HandsFreeLink ID code shown in the vehicle’s
display screen.
26. Once a device is detected, enter the previous
4-digit PIN from step 8 into the lower left-hand
corner of the popup window in the HFL update tool,
if it’s not already displayed. Click Pair to begin the
pairing process.
NOTE: If the original PIN is lost, forgotten, or
otherwise misplaced, the HFL control unit will be
stuck in reflash mode and you will be unable to
complete the update. If this happens, you must
replace the HFL control unit.
27. Repeat steps 13 through 19.
NOTE: There may be more than one Bluetooth
device listed in the HFL update tool “Pair With HFL
(HFT)” screen. Select the correct HFL ID from the
list.
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