Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes
General Troubleshooting InformationGeneral Operation
Refer to the Navigation System manual, for the navigation system operating procedures.
Anti-theft Feature
The navigation system has a coded theft protection circuit. Be sure you have the customer's anti-theft security code before;
- Disconnecting the battery
- Disconnecting the navigation unit 12P and 17P connector
- Removing the No. 23 (10 A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box
After service, reconnect power to the navigation unit, and turn the ignition switch ON (II). Enter the 4-digit anti-theft security codes, then select Done.
If the code cannot be found, use the interactive Network (iN) to look it up. You can view the serial number in one of the Navi ECU diagnostic screen. Alternatively, you will need the serial number from the navigation unit in the dash.
When replacing the navigation unit, be sure to give the customer the new anti-theft security code.
Symptom Diagnosis
Certain circumstances and system limitations will result in occasional vehicle positioning errors. Some customers may think this indicates a problem with the navigation system when, in fact, the system is normal. Keep the following items in mind when interviewing customers about symptoms of the navigation system.
Self-Inertial Navigation Limitations
The limitations of the self-inertial portion of the navigation system (the yaw rate sensor and the vehicle speed signal) can cause some discrepancies between the vehicle's actual position and the indicated vehicle position (GPS vehicle position).
The following circumstances may cause vehicle positioning errors:
- Moving the vehicle with the engine stopped and the vehicle stopped, such as by ferry or tow truck, or if the vehicle is spun on a turn table.
- Tire slippage, changes in tire rolling diameters, and some driving situations may cause discrepancies in travel distances. Examples of this include:
- Continuous tire slippage on a slippery surface.
- Driving with snow chains mounted.
- Abnormal tire pressure.
- Incorrect tire size.
- Frequent lane changes across a wide highway.
- Continuous driving on a straight or gently curving highway.
- Tolerances in the system and map inaccuracies will sometimes limit how precisely the vehicle position is indicated. Examples of this include:
- Driving on roads not shown on the map (map matching is not possible).
- Driving on a road that winds in one direction, such as a loop bridge, an interchange, or a spiral parking garage.
- Driving on a road with a series of sharp hair-pin turns.
- Driving near a gradual highway exit or transition.
- Driving on one of two close parallel roads.
- Making many 90 degree turns.
- The direction to destination icon or the destination icon shown or the map may be up to several hundred feet away from the actual location.
Global Positioning System (GPS) Limitations
The GPS cannot detect the vehicle's position during the following conditions:
- Metallic window tinting above the GPS antenna.
- When only three satellite signals can be received (Four satellite signals are required for accurate positioning).
- When driving near high tension power lines.
- When the satellite signals are blocked by the operation of some electronic aftermarket accessories including, but not limited to non-OEM in-dash entertainment units (radio, CD players/changers, radar detectors and theft recovery systems) and cell phones placed near the navigation system.
- When the satellite control centers are experiencing problems.
The accuracy of GPS is reduced during these instances:
- Metallic window tinting above the GPS antenna.
- When only three satellite signals can be received (Four satellite signals are required for accurate positioning).
- When driving near high tension power lines.
- When the satellite signals are blocked by the operation of some electronic aftermarket accessories including, but not limited to non-OEM in-dash entertainment units (radio, CD players/changers, radar detectors and theft recovery systems) and cell phones placed near the navigation system.
- When the satellite control centers are experiencing problems.
Muting Logic
Whenever the navigation system is giving guidance, the front speakers are muted. When the voice control system is being used, all of the speakers are muted.
LCD Unit Limitations
- In cold temperatures, the display may stay dark for the first 2 or 3 minutes until it warms up.
- When the display is too hot because of direct summer sunlight, it will remain dark until the temperature drops.
- When the humidity is high and the interior temperature is low, the display may appear cloudy. The display will clear up after some use.
- Fingerprints on the touch panel may sometimes be noticeable because of the panel's low-reflection coating. Clean the screen with a soft damp cloth. You may use a mild cleaner intended for eye glasses or computer screens. To avoid scratching the panel, do not rub too hard, or use abrasive cleaners, or shop towels.
- The touch panel consists of a touch sensitive resistive membrane covering the display. Unlike previous systems, you must actually touch the display to activate it. Never use hard or sharp implements to . operate the screen because you risk damaging the sensing membrane. If a touch switch does not function immediately, shift your finger slightly, and touch it again.
Symptom Duplication
- If you can duplicate the symptom, compare it to a known-good vehicle. Only use a vehicle of the same model, year, trim, and software version. If you can duplicate the symptom in the known-good vehicle, then it is a characteristic of the system.
- When the symptom can be duplicated, follow the self-diagnostic procedures and the appropriate troubleshooting procedures.
- When the symptom does not reappear or only reappears intermittently, ask the customer about the conditions when the symptom occurred.
- Try to establish if outside interference may be the cause.
- Try to duplicate the symptom under the same conditions the customer experienced.
- Vibration, temperature extremes, and moisture (dew, humidity) are factors that are difficult to duplicate.
- Inspect the vehicle for aftermarket electronic devices (vehicle locators, radar detector amps, etc.) that may be hidden.
NOTICE: When troubleshooting navigation system problems, ensure that the known-good vehicle is the same software version year and model as the vehicle being serviced. Mixing incompatible navigation DVDs or other system components can delay the troubleshooting process by causing effects unrelated to the original problem.
Service Precautions
- If the navigation unit needs to be replaced, inform the client that personal information in the navigation system may be lost. If possible, have the customer record any personal information before the unit is replaced. On '07-08 models, you can back up the navigation data and transfer it to a new navigation unit. See save user's memory.
- Before disconnecting the battery, make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the audio and navigation systems, and write down the audio presets.
Also obtain any PGM-FI or transmission DTCs and freeze frame date (which will be lost when the ECM/PCM loses power).
- When the battery is disconnected, the internal GPS clock is reset to 0:00. The clock will reset to the correct time after the system finishes GPS initialization.
- After reconnecting the battery, you have to wait to get the initial signal from the satellite. It will take 10 to 45 minutes.
- Before returning the vehicle to the client, enter the audio and navigation anti-theft security codes, then enter the audio presets.
- Adjust the setup clock settings (time zone and daylight savings) in the navigation system.
System Initialization
If for any reason you lose power to the navigation system (the battery was disconnected), the navigation system will require initialization. Once completed, your system will be ready to use.
Initialization requires the following:
- Entering the 4-digit anti-theft security code to unlock the system.
- GPS initialization (may not be needed depending of the length of time the system was without power).
- Map-matching to align the GPS to a location on the map.
Entering Security Code
Any time power is disconnected from the navigation unit, the 4-digit anti-theft code must be entered on the navigation system display. This 4-digit code can be found on a small code card that was given to the customer. Enter the 4-digit code, then select Done.
If the navigation system anti-theft code cannot be found, use the interactive Network (iN) to look it up. You will need the serial number from the navigation unit to do this. You can view the serial number in the diagnostic mode. Select Unit Check from the main menu, then the the Navi ECU diagnostic screen. This allows you go get the serial number without removing the navigation unit.
The iN may display more than one code for a given serial number. This is because serial numbers are not unique. You may have to try more than one 4-digit code. If no code is shown, or if the code(s) given do not work in the navigation unit, contact the Automobile Warranty department. If the code 0000 works, then replace the navigation unit.
When replacing the navigation unit or audio unit, be sure to give the customer the new anti-theft security code.
GPS Initialization
Depending on the length of time the battery was disconnected, your system may require GPS initialization. If it does, the following screen appears:
If this procedure is not necessary, the system proceeds directly to the Disclaimer screen. During initialization, the system searches for all available GPS satellites and obtains their orbital information. During this procedure, the vehicle should be out in the open with a clear view of the sky.
If the navigation system finds the satellites properly, this box clears and changes to the Disclaimer screen. If within 10 minutes the system fails to locate a sufficient number of satellites to locate your position, the following screen appears:
After 30 minutes with this screen displayed, turn off the engine, then restart the vehicle. If you now see the Disclaimer screen, the GPS initialization is complete.
NOTE:
- The average acquiring time is less than 10 minutes, but it can take as long as 45 minutes.
- If the system is still unable to acquire a signal, follow the instructions on the screen. If this screen appears again, go to troubleshooting for the GPS icon is white or not shown. GPS icon is white or not shown
- To bypass the GPS acquire screens, press and hold the Menu and Zoom Out keys at the same time. Touch the Return button on the screen to exit the diagnostic mode. This allows you to continue troubleshooting while in the shop.
After Servicing Procedures-Map Matching
- Park the vehicle in an area where the GPS satellite signals are unobstructed, and check the satellite mark on the display.
- Drive the vehicle 1 mile before entering a destination and confirm the road being used is displayed at the bottom of the screen (map-matched).
- Enter the dealer address and confirm the system routes and performs normally.
- Clear any previous destinations and address entries that may have been entered for testing purposes.
Obtaining a Navigation DVD
If the navigation DVD is lost or damaged, or you need a yearly updated DVD, you have two ways to purchase one. You can either call (888) 291-4675, or order online at www.honda.com.
Both methods require a credit card. The DVD for this model has a turquoise (blue/green) label and cannot be ordered through the parts system. The following DVDs will not work in this navigation system:
- Earlier model navigation DVDs (black, orange, or white label)
- Map software programs manufactured by other companies
- DVD movies or DVDs containing audio recordings
- Copies of an original navigation DVD
Updated DVDs are available for purchase usually in the fall of each year. They may contain the following:
- Enhanced maps and points of interest (POI) coverage
- Fixes for minor software bugs
- Additional features
NOTE:
- Map-matching must be done any time the DVD is removed or replaced.
- Always order navigation DVDs on an as-needed basis. During a typical model year, each color DVD may undergo a half a dozen software-only version upgrades to fix minor issues on some or all models the DVD supports. This is normal. Usually only the letter at the end of the version number changes, while the database (maps and POIs) remain unchanged.
- Never promise your clients future free updates. There are no free programs for updating the navigation DVD. Update DVDs are generally available for purchase each fall. The online DVD order site provides information when an update for a particular color DVD is available. Damaged discs are not warrantable.
DVD Handing and Cleaning
To avoid damaging or leaving fingerprints on the DVD, always handle it by the edges and place it in a jewel case whenever it is outside the navigation unit. Deep scratches or fingerprints on the back of the DVD can cause intermittent rebooting or other system errors.
Smudges and fingerprints can be carefully removed using a mild cleaner and tissues designed to clean eyeglasses. To clean a DVD, use a clean soft cloth. Very gently wipe across the DVD from the center to the outside edge, never in a circular motion.
Do not place stabilizer rings or labels on the DVD.
Earliest DVD Version Application for Each Model
Each navigation system DVD contains a map/POI (point of interest) database and the navigation system software for each model that it supports. Inserting an older DVD can cause problems since it lacks the software to provide the specific features needed for that model. Unfortunately, the navigation software does not detect or warn you that the version is outdated, and it may even appear to operate.
NOTE: Replacing a DVD just because the version number is higher is not always warranted. A higher software version does not necessarily mean it contains newer software for your model. The DVD contains software for all models that use the same color DVD, and a revised number may or may not have software fixes or upgrades for the model in question.
Typical warning symptoms that an outdated DVD is being used include:
- The Honda model navigation screen may display a Acura logo while booting up.
- A newly introduced model future or accessory may not display properly, and Extension will display instead.
NOTE: Extension may be displayed when using Music Link, but should never be displayed when XM is selected.
- The current street (the street being driven on) may not appear properly at the bottom of the map screen display when the vehicle is driven on a main road.
NOTE: If necessary, compare the operation to the navigation system of the same model and year vehicle that has a current DVD.
How to Identify Navigation DVD Versions, and How to Inspect A DVD for Damage
To determine the navigation version on a particular model, start the engine, then locate the navigation unit. Open the DVD door, and push the eject button to eject the DVD. Hold the DVD by the edges, and check for these items:
- The label color.
- Read the DVD version on the label, and note it on the repair order. The version number is near the bottom of the label text (for example, ver: 4.23A). You will need this version number:
- To verify that the DVD version is appropriate for the vehicle.
- Any time you call Tech Line regarding a navigation system issue.
- To answer customer inquires concerning update or coverage issue.
NOTE: Customers may obtain DVDs from sources outside the normal ordering process. If you determine this is the case, recommend that your customer purchase the appropriate DVD from the Honda Disc Fulfillment Center (see ORDERING A DVD).
- Check the underside of the DVD for signs of mishandling. Deep scratches, swirl marks, or fingerprints can cause random lock-ups, reboots, and DVD read or format errors.
NOTE: A damaged DVD is not covered under warranty unless the disc is damaged by the navigation unit. Damage by the navigation unit typically appears as circular scratches caused by something rubbing against the DVD as it spins. The damage may appear as arcs or complete circles on the DVD reading surface.
- Verify that the underside of the DVD is silver, and not a copy with a blue color. Copies will not work properly and can cause other symptoms that mimic hardware problems.
- Incorrectly colored DVDs being put into navigation vehicles. This causes the system to either display error messages, or it causes system malfunctions that mimic a hardware problem. This result in the customer driving away with a malfunctioning navigation system.
- The DVD version provided to the customer is out-of date or incompatible with a particular model. This inconveniences your customer by delaying the repair, or by causing additional (and unnecessary) returns to your dealership.
- The customer experiences bugs or other issues that have already been resolved in later versions currently available at the fulfillment desk.
If the DVD is defective, or has any of the issues mentioned above, return the vehicle to your customer and recommend that they order the proper DVD from the Honda Disc Fulfillment Center (see ORDERING A DVD).
NOTE: If it is determined that the navigation unit is defective (through the appropriate troubleshooting procedures) and the DVD will not eject, order a replacement navigation unit, and also order a DVD from the Honda Disc Fulfillment Center.
How to Answer Customer Questions About Navigation Coverage
Some customers may ask questions regarding a city, address or POI (point of interest) covered by the navigation system. It is better to verify a coverage question on an actual vehicle than to disappoint your customer by promising coverage that may be incomplete or missing in their area. The following suggestions can be used to answer coverage inquiries from your customer.
Is my address covered by the navigation system?
Using a current production vehicle (of the same model), try entering the customer's address (street first) to see if their area is covered. Always enter the street first, because sometimes their city may be included in a neighboring township, or under some lager metropolitan city name. If the address is shown in a later year vehicle, but not your customer's vehicle, you might want to recommend that your customer purchase an update.
Is my city covered by the navigation system?
For general questions about whether a city is covered, view the map coverage link on the DVD order site. On the site, you enter a year and model, and then click on the Coverage link. You then select a state or province, and the cities are listed. Of course, this does not guarantee that the customer's road or address is in the system. Verifying on an actual production vehicle is always the best guarantee that your information is accurate.
The gas station on my corner is now a restaurant. Why is it still incorrect in the navigation system?
For POI-related customer questions, explain that businesses are constantly moving, and there can be a considerable lag in updating the millions of POIs in the system. The database is updated annually, and the best way to the verify whether the POI is accurate is verify the inquiry on a current production vehicle.
Answers to these and other questions regarding coverage can be found in these locations:
- In the Frequently Asked Questions section of the navigation system manual.
- At the on-line DVD order site, by clicking on the FAQs link (see ORDERING A DVD).
Precaution on Customer Sneak Previews
Your customer might request a look (or sneak preview) at features in the latest navigation software. You should never preview a navigation DVD in a customer's vehicle. Inserting a new DVD installs the latest software from the DVD into the memory of the customer's navigation system. When the original DVD is reinstalled, the newer software remains in memory and is often incompatible with the customer's original DVD Map and POI database.
If your customer wishes to see the latest navigation coverage or software features, demonstrate it on an in-stock vehicle that already has the latest DVD version.
If, by chance, a newer version is located accidentally, either by the dealer or the customer, the only remedy is to enter the navigation diagnostic mode's Version screen and do a forced download. Refer to the iN for applicable patches that may need reinstalling.