Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes
How to Troubleshoot the Navigation System
General Operation
Refer to the Navigation Manual for the navigation system operating procedures.
Anti-Theft Feature
The navigation system has a coded theft protection circuit. Make sure you have the anti-theft security code before:
- Disconnecting the battery.
- Disconnecting the audio-navigation unit connector A (24P).
- Removing the No. 15 (10 A) fuse from the under-hood fuse/relay box.
After service, reconnect power to the audio-navigation unit, and turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode. Enter the 5-digit anti-theft security code.
If the code card is lost or unavailable, you can get the code from the iN using the navigation system serial number. The system serial number can easily be obtained without removing the audio-navigation unit. To get the serial number and the code, do this:
- Press and hold the MENU, MAP/GUIDE, and CANCEL buttons at the same time.
- At the select diagnosis items screen, select Detail Information & Settings, select Unit Check, then ECU Info. The system runs a brief diagnosis, then the audio-navigation unit serial number is displayed at the bottom of the screen.
- Use the Anti-theft code inquiry option on the iN to look up the 5-digit anti-theft code. 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 5-digit code. If no code is shown, or if the code(s) given do not work in the audio-navigation unit, contact the Automobile Warranty department.
Alternatively, you can find the serial number on the upper label which is located on the audio-navigation unit in the dash.
The HDD and audio-navigation unit are mated to each other and can only be mated to a new unit. If someone tried to put a stolen HDD in another audio-navigation unit, or insert their HDD in a stolen audio-navigation unit, the two components cannot mate and a HDD read error appears on the display.
When replacing the audio-navigation unit, be sure to give the client the new anti-theft security code.
Symptom Diagnosis
Certain circumstances and system limitations may result in occasional vehicle positioning errors. Some clients 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 clients 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 discrepancies between the vehicle's actual position and the indicated vehicle's 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
- Very bumpy roads
- Tolerances in the system and map inaccuracies sometimes limit how precisely the vehicle's 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
Global Positioning System (GPS) Limitations
The GPS cannot detect the vehicle's position or elevation during the following instances:
- For the first 5 to 10 minutes after reconnecting the battery (this process can take as long as 45 minutes).
- When the satellite signals are blocked by tall buildings, mountains, tunnels, large trees, inside parking structures or large trucks.
- When the GPS antenna is blocked by metallic window tinting or by an object placed above it in the vehicle. The GPS antenna requires a clear unobstructed view of the sky.
- When there is no satellite signal output (signal output is sometimes stopped for satellite servicing).
- 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.
The accuracy of the GPS is reduced during these instances:
- Metallic window tinting above the GPS antenna.
- When only three or less satellite signals are 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/audio disc 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, outputs of all the speakers except the center speaker are decreased. When the voice control system is being used, all of the speakers are muted. If the AcuraLink or HandsFreeLink is in use, the voice control system is unavailable and a message appears onscreen.
LCD Unit Limitations
NOTE: The screen is not touch sensitive. Use the interface dial and buttons to select items on the screen.
- In cold temperatures, the display may stay dark for the first 1 minute until it warms up.
- When the display is too hot because of direct summer sunlight, it will remain dark until the temperature drops (you may see an error message displayed stating this fact).
- 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 screen may be noticeable. 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.
Symptom Duplication
- When the symptom can be duplicated, verify that it is not a characteristic of the system. Review the navigation system manual and compare it to a known-good vehicle (with the same software and database), under the same conditions. If the symptom is not the same as the known-good vehicle, follow the self-diagnostic procedures and the appropriate troubleshooting procedures.
- When the symptom does not reappear or only reappears intermittently, ask the client about the conditions when the symptom occurred.
- Always ask the client to demonstrate the problem
- Try to establish possible user error or misunderstanding of the system
- Try to establish if outside interference may have been the cause
- Try to duplication the symptom under the same conditions the client experienced
- Vibration, temperature extremes, and moisture (dew, humidity) are factors that are difficult to duplicate
- Inspect the vehicle for after-market electronic devices (vehicle locators, amps, radar detectors, 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 systems or other system components can delay the troubleshooting process by creating symptoms or issues unrelated to the original problem.
Audio-Navigation Unit and HDD Service Precautions
Contrary to previous generations of navigation units, the audio-navigation unit and the HDD cannot be substituted separately. You can substitute a combined audio-navigation unit and HDD with a known-good combined audio-navigation unit and HDD. When the audio-navigation unit and HDD are connected to a vehicle, and powered up for the first time, the audio-navigation unit and HDD go through a mating process where the HDD writes the audio-navigation unit's serial number to its memory. The audio-navigation unit and HDD are available separately.
When you get a replacement audio-navigation unit, the unit arrives able to mate one time to a HDD. When you connect the audio-navigation unit to the HDD and power it up for the first time, the two components are mated. Once the audio-navigation unit is mated, it does not accept an HDD that is already mated to another audio-navigation unit. It does accept a new HDD.
The HDD is removable from the audio-navigation unit. If the audio-navigation unit is replaced, install the original HDD into the new audio-navigation unit. When you transfer the HDD, all the client's settings, music, and photographs are transferred.
The HDD is able to mate more than once, allowing you to transfer the HDD with the client's information to a new audio-navigation unit. The HDD must mate to a new audio-navigation unit. It cannot mate to an audio-navigation unit that has been mated to another HDD.
If you need to replace the HDD, there is no way to transfer client data, music, or pictures to a new HDD. Explain to your client that their music and personal information is not transferable. The navigation system has the save users memory function available, but Acura does not recommend using it. If the HDD is OK, install it in the new audio-navigation unit and it will automatically transfer all the client's information and settings.
If you need to replace the HDD, you can try to back-up the navigation data (if possible) and transfer it to the new HDD. See save users memory. The save users memory function only copies client settings and phone information. There is no way to copy or transfer music and photographs that are saved on the HDD to a new HDD. Explain to your client that this information is not transferable and will be lost.
- When the battery is disconnected, the internal GPS clock resets to 0:00. The clock resets to the correct time after the system finishes GPS initialization.
- Before disconnecting the battery, make sure you have the anti-theft code for the navigation system. Also obtain any PGM-FI or transmission DTCs and freeze frame date (which are lost when the PCM loses power).
- After reconnecting the battery, you have to wait to get the initial signal from the satellite. It will take from 10 to 45 minutes.
- Adjust the setup clock settings (time zone and daylight savings) in the navigation system.
- Before returning the vehicle to the client, enter the anti-theft code for the navigation system.
- Enter the client's audio presets.
- Install any discs that were removed.
System Initialization
If the navigation system loses power (like the battery was disconnected), the navigation system requires initialization. Once completed, your system is ready to use.
This initialization requires the following:
- Entering the 5-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 aligns the GPS to a location on the map.
Entering the Security Code
Any time the navigation system loses power, you need to enter the 5-digit anti-theft code on the navigation system display. This 5-digit code is located on a small code card that was given to the client. Enter the 5-digit code.
If the anti-theft code is missing, get the serial number from the audio-navigation unit and use the iN to look it up. You do not need to remove the audio-navigation unit. See Anti-theft feature.
When replacing the audio-navigation unit, make sure you give the client the new anti-theft security code.
GPS Initialization
NOTE: You must park the vehicle outside with a clear view of the sky.
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.
If this screen appears, turn off the engine, then restart the vehicle and move it to a different location. If the Disclaimer screen appears, 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 GPS icon is white or not shown troubleshooting Symptom Troubleshooting.
- Skip to a CSF screen by pushing the MENU and INFO buttons at the same time and can move to a System Links screen.
Map Matching
This part of the initialization matches the GPS coordinates with a road on the map screen. To do this part of the procedure, make sure that the navigation system displays a map, and drive the vehicle on a mapped road shown on the map screen. Do not enter a destination at this time. When the name of the current road you are driving on appears at the bottom of the screen, the entire procedure is complete. Your system is now ready to use.
Ordering an Update Navigation DVD
If the client wants to purchase a yearly update for their HDD, you have two ways to purchase one. You can either call 888-549-3798, or order on-line at www.acuranavi.com.
When clients order an update DVD, they need:
- VIN
- Device number (found on the INFO menu)
- Credit card
Update 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
The update DVD is mailed to the client along with the password.
When the client receives the update DVD, insert the disc into the CD/DVD player. The client is prompted to enter the password that is shipped with the update DVD. The navigation system automatically updates the HDD.
NOTE: The update DVD is designed to update the vehicle with the submitted VIN. If a client has more than one vehicle that needs updating, they need to order a separate update DVD for that vehicle.
Acura tracks the map software version purchased for the VIN. If you need to replace the HDD, the new HDD comes with the latest map version that the client loaded on the HDD.
Never promise your client future free updates. There are no free programs for updating the navigation HDD. Update DVDs are generally available for purchase each fall. The online DVD order site provides information when an update is available.
Lever-Locked Connector
Disconnecting
To disconnect the connector, pull the lever (A) while pushing the lock tab (B) down, then pull the connector (C).
Connecting
To connect the connector, push the connector into the connector sleeve (A). As the connector is pressed in, the lever (B) moves to the locked position.
How to Answer Client Questions about Navigation Coverage
Some clients 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 client by promising coverage that may be incomplete or missing in their area. The following suggestions can be used to answer coverage inquiries from your client.
Is my address covered by the navigation system?
Using a current production vehicle (of the same model), and enter the client'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 larger metropolitan city name. If the address is shown in a later year vehicle, but not your client's vehicle, you might recommend that your client 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, select a year, and select a model, then click on the Coverage link. You then select a state or province, and the cities are listed. This does not guarantee that the client'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 client 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 Manual.
- At the online DVD order site, by clicking on the FAQs link.
How do I find the local address of a business that is part of a national chain (for example, Starbucks)?
There are three ways to find the local address to businesses:
- If you know the phone number of the business, select Phone Number and enter the 10 digit phone number (area code plus seven digit number).
- Select Category, then Restaurant. Enter the keyword Star. The resulting list includes all restaurants that have the letters Star anywhere in the name.
- Select Name and enter Starbucks. For more common business names, like McDonalds, you may have to search through a list that includes other businesses like McDonalds Welding, McDonalds Automotive, etc.
Why are some features different or missing compared to my previous Acura vehicle?
Hardware and software continually go through updates and improvements. Features may change or disappear over time based on the navigation system development.
How to Check Error History (Navigation DTCs)
NOTE: The navigation DTCs cannot be retrieved with the HDS.
The Error History feature is to record intermittent navigation issues that occur while the client is using the system. Sometimes the client complaint cannot be duplicated. The error history may record the information needed to diagnose the problem. To check the error history.
1. Start the engine.
2. Press and hold the MAP/GUIDE, MENU, and CANCEL buttons for 3 seconds, or connect the SCS service connector to the navigation service check connector located by the front passenger's kick panel Navigation System Forced Starting of the Audio-Navigation Unit.
3. When the Select Diagnosis Items menu is displayed, select Detail Information & Setting.
4. When the audio-navigation unit has hard codes, the Error History icon appears yellow when the Self-Diagnosis mode (System Links) screen is displayed. When no hard errors are stored, the icon appears gray. To view the errors with their navigation DTC, select the error history icon.
USA models
Canada models
5. Select Hard Error.
NOTE: Soft errors are for factory use only.
Hardware Error History
- The Hard Error screen displays the following information for each error:
- The navigation DTC for the error.
- A brief description of the navigation DTC.
- The date and time when the error occurred.
NOTE:
- To see additional errors, use the interface dial to select UP or DOWN.
- Select Clear to delete the error history. The Save feature is for factory use only.
- Write down the navigation DTCs and error history before deleting.
7. Use the navigation DTC Troubleshooting table to troubleshoot the error.
8. Clear the navigation DTCs.
9. Select Return to exit the Error History.
Software Error (Soft error) History
Software errors are not available. They are for factory use only.
How to Clear Error History
1. Do the steps in How to check Error History.
2. Select Clear in the error menu.
NOTE:
- By selecting Clear, all software and hardware errors stored in history are erased at the same time.
- Save is for factory use only.
- Write down the navigation DTCs and error history before deleting.
Hard error history is displayed
Soft error history is displayed (software errors are for factory use only)
3. After selecting Clear, then selecting Yes on the confirmation screen, both Hard Error history and Soft Error history are cleared at the same time.
Hard error history clear/Soft error history clear (Soft errors are for factory use only)
4. Select Return to exit the error history.
Audio-Navigation Unit and HDD Replacement Troubleshooting
To protect client information and data from theft, the audio-navigation unit and the HDD have a passcode that prevents the HDD from being accessed by any audio-navigation unit. When the HDD is first installed in an audio-navigation unit, and the ignition switch is turned to ON (II), or the engine start/stop button is pressed to select the ON mode, the HDD writes the passcode from the audio-navigation unit to its memory, which is also known as mating. Every time the ignition switch is turned to ON (II), or the engine start/stop button is pressed to select the ON mode, the audio-navigation unit and HDD confirm the passcode against the other component. If the audio-navigation unit has a different passcode than the HDD, the audio-navigation unit cannot access the HDD.
When you order a new audio-navigation unit , it arrives able to mate one time to a new or previously mated HDD. When you mate the two components, the new audio-navigation unit overwrites the HDD's original passcode with the new one. If you try to install the HDD back into the original audio-navigation unit, the passcode is different, and the audio-navigation unit cannot mate to the HDD.
When you order a new HDD, it arrives able to mate to a new or a previously mated audio-navigation unit. Once the HDD is mated, it then can only mate with a new audio-navigation unit.
For more information, refer to audio-navigation unit and HDD service precautions. The outline of the audio-navigation unit and the HDD replacement and substitution is shown in the following table.
NOTE:
- Original units are known-good units that have been mated at least one time, and new units have never been mated.
- You can substitute a mated audio-navigation unit and HDD into another vehicle, but you cannot substitute known-good components individually.
Navigation Update FAQs
