Frequently Asked Questions
Hardware
- Q. Can I use a MAC instead of a PC?
A. No. To review the system requirements, click here.
- Q. I have a 2008 Honda Accord and would like to know how I can find out if I have any Recalls on my vehicle.
A. If you are the vehicle owner, you don't need a SIS subscription to check for Recalls.
Honda owners, click here for Honda Owner Link. Acura owners, click here
for My Acura.
- Q. I own 2008 Honda Civic and I lost my radio code. How do I get my Radio code?
A. If you are the vehicle owner, you don't need a SIS subscription to retrieve your radio or navi codes.
Honda owners click here, Acura owners click here.
- Q. Is the Denso DST-i compatible with Windows 10?
A. Yes, Windows 10 Professional (32 and 64 bit) is supported.
- Q. Can I use the new HDS software with the HIM or GNA600
A. No, the GNA600 and HIM ONLY work with HDS software version 2.027.003 and earlier.
- Q. Is a J2534 interface device (such as those supplied by Actia, Blue Streak Electronics, Bosch, Drew technologies, Ease Diagnostics, Snap-on, etc.) compatible for programming key and code information?
A. No, generic J2534 devices are for re-programming only and must use the Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software. For further information, refer to your device supplier's documentation or website.
- Q. Can I use a generic J2534 interface device (such as those supplied by Actia, Blue Streak Electronics, Bosch, Drew technologies, Ease Diagnostics, Snap-on, etc.) with i-HDS?
A. No, i-HDS software will only work with a PC and a Honda scan tool, such as the DST-i.
- Q. Can I connect the Bosch MCVI or DENSO DST-i unit to my HDS computer in WiFi mode?
A. Yes, for a copy of the MVCI WiFi Quick Start Guide, click here. For a copy of the DENSO DST-i WiFi Quick Start Guide, click here.
Software
- Q. I’m experiencing problems opening content on SIS - all I’m getting is a blank screen.
A. You must meet our system requirements to view our content. Click here to review system requirements.
NOTE: Users who are running Microsoft SQL server on their PC must remove SQL server in order to view our content.
Diagnostics
- Q. What is the cost of the various diagnostic software subscriptions?
A. The subscription types and pricing info is available on the home page of techinfo.honda.com
- Q. How do I install i-HDS software and what are the requirements?
A. Installation instructions will be provided with your software subscription. For i-HDS hardware and software requirement click here.
- Q. When I subscribe to the i-HDS software, how do i get the software and the updates?
A. The initial software is available for download, along with instructions on how to install the software. When software updates are released, you'll receive an email with a link to download the updates to your PC.
- Q. Can I install i-HDS software and other OEMs' diagnostic software on the same PC?
A. This may or may not be possible, depending on the other OEMs’ software. You may need to uninstall the other diagnostic software in order to use the HDS.
- Q. Will i-HDS software work with interface devices other than the DST-i, such as J2534 devices, HIM, GNA600, Ford VCM, etc.?
A. The officially supported tool is the DST-i. Other devices are not guaranteed to work with the software.
- Q. Does the i-HDS software package retrieve codes for ABS, AIRBAG, and CHECK ENGINE?
A. It depends on the year of the vehicle. Some older vehicles may not have the capability. Consult the Service Manual for specific model and year.
- Q. Who can I call for information that's not listed in the FAQ?
A. Please call 833-949-4672.
Reprogramming (Reflash)
- Q. How do I reprogram the ECU?
A. Please see the Service Bulletin titled "Updating Control Units/Modules" in SIS. Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) users click here.
- Q. Is there an easy way to find out if there is updated programming for an ECM/PCM/ECU of a specific make or model?
A. No, you have to install and run one of the supported update applications with the required hardware.
- Q. Are all vehicle ECM's, PCM's, and ECU's reprogrammable?
A. No, ECM/PCM reprogrammability was phased in between 2001 and 2005. All 2006 and later models ECM/PCMs are re-programmable. The reprogramming software will indicate whether an update is available.
- Q. I have a J2534 interface device. How do I purchase software?
A. You can purchase a subscription to the software from the homepage..
- Q. I currently have a DST-i and i-HDS software. How do I get the ECU update for a 2004 Acura RSX?
A. You must have the latest i-HDS software installed on your PC. If an update is available, the software will recognize this and prompt you to install it.
- Q. What other control modules can I reprogram besides the PCM and ECM?
A. CM Update Mode (from the MVCI, included with HDS software) and The Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software will reprogram powertrain and non-powertrain ECU's such as PGM-FI, AT, SRS, electric power steering (EPS), ABS, etc.
- Q. What is the meaning of error code 53 when trying to reprogram a control module?
A. The ECU you are trying to update is not reprogrammable, or is not properly installed.
- Q. What is the difference between ‘Control Module Initialization’ and ‘Control Module Reprogramming’?
A. ‘Control Module Initialization’ is done after replacing the existing module with a new one. ‘Control Module Reprogramming’ is reprogramming (aka, re-flashing) or updating the existing original module in the vehicle.
- Q. Can I reprogram a Control Module (ECU) unit that is not sold through Honda?
A. It is possible. However, the Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2435) software has only been tested and confirmed using Honda genuine ECUs. Aftermarket or Remanufactured ECUs should be reprogrammed at your own risk.
Other
- Q. Can a J2534 compliant interface device and the Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software be used to add a keyless entry transmitter/key?
A. No, J2534 devices and software cannot add keys. The J2534 software can only reprogram ECM/PMC/ECU's. Keys can only be added by certified locksmiths. Click here for more information.
- Q. I'm currently a certified locksmith. Can I reprogram keys with the i-HDS software subscription?
A. Yes, provided you are registered with ALOA and have a current SIS Security Professional subscription. click here to subscribe.
- Q. How do I get the software to initialize replacement modules and what is the charge?
A. A subscription to the i-HDS suite and an appropriate J2534 Pass-through device is needed. If your shop has a DST-i, the PCM Initialization software is included in the subscription.
NOTE: If you are trying to reprogram ECM/PCM/ECU's or replace lost keys, the appropriate credentials and type of subscription is required.
- Q. I currently have the Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software. Will that allow me to replace the ECM/PCM?
A. No, the Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software is for reprogramming (reflashing) only.
- Q. What is the difference between ‘Control Module Initialization’ and ‘Control Module Reprogramming’?
A. ‘Control Module Initialization’ is done after replacing the existing module with a new one. ‘Control Module Reprogramming’ is reprogramming (aka, re-flashing) or updating the existing original module in the vehicle.
- Q. How do I order diagnostic tools?
A. At the bottom of the home page of techinfo.honda.com, look for the link to view the complete list of diagnostic tools. Entering the link will allow you to view and purchase the tools.
Subscriptions
- Q. Do you have a free SIS subscription?
A. No, our current pricing is listed on the homepage.
- Q. Do you have any discounts?
A. Not at this time.
- Q. How do I subscribe to the Honda Diagnostic System software?
A. Click on the appropriate i-HDS Subscription button on the homepage.
- Q. Is reprogramming software included with a SIS subscription?
A. No, reprogramming software for use with J2534 compliant interface devices is available with an i-HDS subscription.
- Q. Do you offer any discounts on software subscriptions?
A. Not at this time.
Website
- Q. What should I do if the SIS links are not working or if 'page cannot be displayed' message appears?
A. Contact Customer Service at (833) 949-4672.
- Q. Why are some documents on your website scanned from a hard copy?
A. All newer vehicle information is created in electronic format. In order to provide older vehicle information, it was necessary to scan existing printed documents.
- Q. Why are some Owner's Manuals listed as unlinked?
A. All Owners Manuals are unlinked until all revisions are finalized. At that time, the manual is replaced with a linked version.
- Q. If I purchase a SIS subscription, can I print documents?
A. Yes, but we do not recommend storing printed documents because SIS information is revised as needed. You should always check for the most current information.
- Q. What do I do if I'm unable to connect to the parts info page?
A. Contact Customer Service at (833) 949-4672
- Q. When I select a document on SIS, it won't open. Why?
A. If your PC has a pop-up blocker installed, you may not be able to view some of the content.
- Q. Is sectioning and measuring information available on SIS?
A. The Body Repair Manual includes measuring information, but not step-by-step procedures on how to remove panels, etc. You should refer to the "Collision Industry Position Statements" listed under the Free Resources on the SIS homepage.
- Q. Does SIS contain motorcycle information?
A. No, SIS is for Honda and Acura automobiles only.
- Q. Are smog check instructions available on SIS?
A. Not at this time.