2023 Honda i-HDS 1.008.005+HDS Diagnostic and J2534 Reprogramming Software

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (“Honda”) offers the i-HDS (Honda Diagnostic System) software suite for the diagnosis and repair of electronic systems on Honda and Acura automobiles, and for the reprogramming of electronic control units (including, but not limited to, ECMs and PCMs). This software provides access to all Honda and Acura vehicle systems (access to the immobilizer security system requires a Security Professional level software subscription and Vehicle Security Professional [VSP] registration with NASTF). To use the i-HDS software, you need to purchase one of our convenient subscription options. In addition, you will need a pass-thru Vehicle Communication Device (VCI) that is compliant with SAE J2534-1 and J2534-2 in order to communicate with the vehicle.

Minimum PC Requirements for the i-HDS Software

Honda HDS Markets:

USA
Canada
Europe
General
Japan

Honda HDS 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 ECU parameters)
•Onboard tutorial
•Generic scan tool runs basic tests on non-Honda/Acura vehicles (HDS Tablet and Pocket Tester only)
•Control module update functions (HDS Tablet and Pocket Tester only)

Hardware and software requirements:

•PC or laptop with either Windows 2000 Professional (SP4 or later) or XP (SP1 or later)
•Hard disk drive with at least 400MB of free space
•CD-ROM drive (if a high-speed Internet connection is not available)
•Type II PC card drive (HDS Tablet only)
•RS232 port required to connect PC to HIM (PC version software only)
•Monitor capable of displaying in VGA mode or above (1024 x 768 recommended)
•Internet connection (high-speed connection recommended)

Vehicle Communication Interfaces (VCI)

The i-HDS software supports the use of a generic pass-thru VCI that is compliant with SAE J2534-1 and J2534-2. However, Honda recommends the Denso DST-i or the Bosch MVCI for use on Honda and Acura vehicles, as Honda has worked closely with these manufacturers to ensure their hardware and our software interact safely and within the J2534-1 and -2 specifications, for both diagnostics and reprogramming. If you choose to use a generic VCI, please carefully consider the customer and technical support options you will receive from your chosen device supplier. Honda does not provide technical or customer support for generic VCI devices.

The VCI Application Table below lists devices that either are approved and supported by Honda or are known to have completed and passed an independent, exhaustive validation program with our i-HDS software suite.

* These versions may have been superseded. Honda provides the latest supported versions to current i-HDS subscribers.

** Version used in validation program. See Terms and Conditions and Important Notice Regarding Reprogramming below for more details.

Reprogramming with the J2534 Rewrite Application in i-HDS

Included in the i-HDS software suite is a new reprogramming application called J2534 Rewrite. This application is made available to all subscribers of the i-HDS software suite and replaces the previous generation software, J2534 Honda Pass-thru Reprogramming Software.

This new application is compatible with generic VCIs that comply with SAE J2534. It must be used to reprogram any Honda/Acura vehicle equipped with ECUs that support reprogramming. Refer to the table below for legacy applicability for the programming of ECMs and PCMs. Though system dependent, late-model vehicles may be equipped with other ECUs that support reprogramming as well, e.g. ABS or VSA. J2534 Rewrite must be used to reprogram these control modules, as instructed in an applicable service bulletin.

As shown in this table, not all legacy Honda/Acura models are equipped with a reprogrammable ECM/PCM. Furthermore, all 2007 and later models not listed in the table are fully supported with this application.

Important Notice Regarding Reprogramming

Do NOT program a control unit/module unless you are directed by a service procedure or an applicable Honda/Acura Service Bulletin. Control unit/module updating should only be undertaken by a skilled professional using proper equipment and procedures, or damage can occur. Updating control units/modules to the latest software not associated with a specific symptom may not resolve other specific customer concerns. Unauthorized or self-directed programming may cause unintended and irreversible effects and lead to vehicle harm and/or customer dissatisfaction.

Honda urges end users to always use the LATEST production release of the J2534 Rewrite software in the i-HDS suite. Using the latest version of the software is the best way to ensure successful reprogramming of applicable control units/modules.

It is possible to damage the vehicle’s electronic control units/modules during reprogramming. Ensure the following conditions are met BEFORE programming a control unit/module:

1. The vehicle battery must be fully charged before programming the control unit/module. Stable battery voltage is critical during programming. Any fluctuation, spiking, over voltage, or loss of voltage will interrupt programming.

2. Turn OFF or disable any system that may put a load on the vehicle battery.
Make certain all tool connections are secure. Do NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the reprogramming procedure, reprogramming failure or control unit/module damage may occur.

THE REPROGRAMMING PROCEDURE MUST BE FOLLOWED EXACTLY AS OUTLINED BY THE SOFTWARE AND/OR SERVICE INFORMATION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL CAUSE THE REPROGRAMMING EVENT TO FAIL.