Honda Diagnostic System FAQs: How to use HDS for diagnosis, reprogramming, key making

Look here: Honda Diagnostic System HDS user manual by questions and answers:

HDS hardware

HDS software

HDS diagnosis

HDS reflash

HDS subscription

 

Hardware

 

  1. Q: Is the Bosch MVCI or Denso DST-I compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1 and 10?
    A: Yes, Windows 7 Professional (32 and 64 bit), Windows 8, 8.1 Professional (32 and 64 bit), and Windows 10 Professional (32 and 64 bit) are supported.
  2. Q: Can I use the new HDS software with the HIM or GNA600
    A: No, the GNA600 ONLY work with HDS software old version 2.027.003

For HDS new version 3.102.004, you should use it with HIM: http://www.obdii365.com/

  1. 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.
  2. 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 HDS?
    A: No, HDS software will only work with a PC and the Modular Vehicle Communications Interface (MVCI) or HIM.
  3. Q: Can I connect the Bosch MCVI or DENSO DST-i unit to my HDS computer in WiFi mode?
    A: Yes.

Software

 

PC requirement

  1. Q: Can I use a MAC instead of a PC for HDS?
    A: No. Look here: the system requirements

Personal Computer (PC)

  • Laptop or desktop computer
  • Intel or AMD processor: 2.0 GHz or higher
  • Keyboard & mouse
  • Memory (RAM): 1GB or higher
  • Hard Drive Space: 20 GB or more
  • Floppy Drive: not required
  • USB: 1.0 or higher
  • Network Card: 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet
  • Optical Drive: 8x DVD-ROM
  • Video Resolution: see Display Requirements
  • Sound Card: 1 channel audio or higher
  • Internal or external audio speakers

Operating System

USA Tool Requirements
HDS software and J2534software:
Windows 7 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 8 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 8.1 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 10 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)

Canada Tool Requirements
HDS:
Windows 7 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 8 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 8.1 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)
Windows 10 Professional (32 bit and 64 bit)

Display

  • Recommended display resolution is 1024 x 768 with the large font setting.
  • 800 x 600 will work, but some procedures work better at the higher resolution.

Web Browser

ServiceExpress requires Internet Explorer 10 or 11; Chrome ver.44*, Firefox Ver.40, Safari Ver.8

  • Earlier versions of Internet Explorer are not supported.
  • Netscape, AOL are not supported.
  • Internet connection: 56k or faster.

Viewer Requirements

  • ServiceExpress requires Adobe Acrobat Reader version 11 or higher.
  • To download the latest version of Acrobat Reader, click here
  • NOTE: Uninstall prior versions of Acrobat Reader before installing the recommended update. For more detailed information about Acrobat Reader, please visit www.adobe.com
  • ServiceExpress requires Adobe SVG Viewer version 3.03 or higher when using Internet Explorer or Edge.
  • To download the latest version of Adobe SVG Reader, click here
  • NOTE: For more detailed information about Adobe SVG Reader, please visit www.adobe.com.
  • ServiceExpress requires PDF Viewer extension when using Chrome.
  • To download the latest version of PDF Viewer extension, click here and search for PDF Viewer.

Internet Explorer Settings

  • Cookies must be enabled
  • Javascript must be enabled
  • NOTE: Uninstall prior versions of Acrobat Reader before installing the recommended update. For more detailed information about Acrobat Reader, please visit www.adobe.com.

Note: These are generally the default settings for Internet Explorer.

HDS Diagnostics

 

  1. Q: What is the cost of the various diagnostic software subscriptions?
    A: Click on the “Tools Info” tab at the top of the ServiceExpress web-page for pricing and other tool related information.
  2. Q: How do I install HDS software and what are the requirements?
    A: Windows 7 32 bit is the one tested by pros. For HDS installation, pls watch the video:

HDS Windows 7 installation instruction: http://blog.obdii365.com/2017/06/23/install-honda-hds-him-3-102-044-on-windows-7/

  1. Q: How do i get the HDS software and the updates?
    A: The HDS software download link can be found here: http://blog.obdii365.com/2017/06/16/free-download-honda-him-hds-3-102-004-and-i-hds/. When software updates are released, you can get new links on the official blog: http://blog.obdii365.com/.
  2. Q: Can I install HDS software and other OEM’s diagnostic software on the same PC?
    A: This may or may not be possible, depending on the other OEM’s software. You may need to uninstall the other diagnostic software in order to use the HDS.
  3. Q: Will HDS software work with interface devices other than the MVCI, such as J2534 devices, HIM, GNA600, Ford VCM, etc.?
    A: No, HDS will work with the MVCI and HIM diagnostic tool.
  4. Q: Does the 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.

 

HDS Reprogramming (Reflash)

 

  1. Q: How do I reprogram the ECU?
    A: Both HIM clone and genuine can do ECU reprogramming for Honda.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 reprogrammable. The reprogramming software will indicate whether an update is available.
  4. Q: I have a J2534 interface device. How do I purchase software?
    A: Click on the “Tools Info” tab at the top of the ServiceExpress web-page, then click on Free Download in software column for the “Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534).
  5. Q: I currently have a MVCI and HDS software. How do I get the ECU update for a 2004 Acura RSX?
    A: You must have the latest HDS software installed on your PC. If an update is available, the software will recognize this and prompt you to install it.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.

 

Others

 

  1. 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: You can have a VXDIAG VCX Nano Honda or FVDI J2534 for diagnosis and programming. Both are confirmed to work!
  2. Q: I’m currently a certified locksmith. Can I reprogram keys with the HDS software? 
    A: Yes, provided you are registered with ALOA and have a current ServiceExpress Security Professional subscription.
  3. Q: How do I get the software to initialize replacement modules and what is the charge?
    A: If your shop has a MVCI, HIM or GNA600 interface, the PCM Initialization software is free of charge.
    NOTE: If you are trying to reprogram ECM/PCM/ECU’s or replace lost keys, this software will not work.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Q: How do I get a decent diagnostic tool for HDS? For personal use.
    A: If you just look for a working tool for functionality, it’s good to have a HIM china clone. It’s much cheapter than the dealer but share the same function. Link to HIM: http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/honda-gna600-new-version-2011-v2024.html

 

Subscriptions

 

  1. Q: How do I subscribe to the Honda Diagnostic System software?
    A: Click on the “Tools Info” tab at the top of the ServiceExpress web-page for pricing and other tool related information.
  2. Q: Is reprogramming software included with a ServiceExpress subscription? 
    A: No, Reprogramming software for J2534 compliant interface devices is available free of charge. Please see Honda Pass-Thru Reprogramming (J2534) software on the Tools Info tab. A Service Express subscription is not required.

 

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