Service Bulletin
September 21, 2016

16-033
04943 Version 3

Warranty Extension: Software Update for Lock-up Clutch Function
Supersedes 16-033, dated June 21, to revise the information highlighted in yellow
AFFECTED VEHICLES
Year
Model
2009–11
TL

Trim
ALL 2WD

VIN Range
Check the iN VIN status for eligibility

REVISION SUMMARY
Under BACKGROUND, CORRECTIVE ACTION, and REPAIR PROCEDURE, information was added to indicate this
software should only be applied when the client requests it because of a judder.
BACKGROUND
There is the possibility of a judder from the torque converter lock-up clutch felt while driving between 20–45 mph. To
minimize the possibility for the judder to occur, a software update for the transmission is available at the client’s request.
The software update is available to customers free of charge for 8 years from the original date of the vehicle’s purchase
or 105,000 miles, whichever comes first. The software update can be applied to a vehicle after the extended warranty
has expired, but the customer is responsible for any costs.
Additionally, the warranty on the torque converter in affected vehicles is being extended to 8 years from the original date
of purchase or 105,000 miles, whichever comes first. Refer to service bulletin 16-036, Warranty Extension: 2009-11 TL
Torque Converter for more information about the warranty extension.
There are two service bulletins applicable to this issue:
•
•

16-033, Warranty Extension: Software Update for Lock-up Clutch Function – Update the software in the vehicle.
16-036, Warranty Extension: 2009–11 TL Torque Converter - Replace the torque converter.

If the client indicates there is a judder, do 16-033 first to update the vehicle. If the judder returns after updating the
vehicle, the torque converter may need to be replaced; refer to 16-036 for diagnostic and repair information.
CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION
Owners of affected vehicles will be sent a notification of this campaign.
Do an iN VIN status inquiry to make sure the vehicle is shown as eligible.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
If the client indicates there is a judder, update the PGM-FI software, then replace the ATF.
If the judder returns after the software update, refer to service bulletin 16-036, Warranty Extension: 2009–11 TL Torque
Converter to replace the torque converter.

CLIENT INFORMATION: The information in this bulletin is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment, and
training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These procedures should not be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume
this bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To determine whether this information applies, contact an
authorized Acura automobile dealer.

© 2016 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. – All Rights Reserved

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PARTS INFORMATION
Part Name

Part Number

Quantity

Drain Plug Washer (18 mm)

90471-PX4-000

1

ATF Fill Sealing Washer (24 mm)

90441-PK4-000

1

REQUIRED MATERIALS
Part Name

Part Number

Quantity

Acura ATF DW-1

08200-9008A

4

WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Operation
Number

Description

Flat Rate
Time

Defect
Code

Symptom
Code

Template ID

Failed Part Number

1255E0

Update the PGM-FI
software, then replace the
ATF.

0.5 hr

6V100

JZ700

16-033N

37805-RK1-A660

SOFTWARE INFORMATION
NOTE: Unnecessary or incorrect repairs resulting from a failure to update the i-HDS or MVCI are not covered under
warranty.
i-HDS Software Version: 1.001.004 or later
J2534 Software Information:
PC Application Version 1.0.1.12 or later
Database update 08-JUN-2016 or later
Before beginning the repair, make sure that both the i-HDS and J2534 software are updated as listed above.
Do only the update listed in this service bulletin.
You cannot apply the updates with the MVCI as a standalone tool. To update the vehicle you must use the MVCI or
the DST-i interface in conjunction with the J2534 Rewrite PC application on the i-HDS.
For more information about updating the i-HDS, the MVCI, and vehicle systems, refer to Service Bulletin 01-023,
Updating Control Units/Modules.
Year/Model
Software System
Program ID (or later)
Program P/N (or later)
2009 TL 2WD
PGM-FI
K1A580
37805-RK1-A580
2010–11 TL 2WD
PGM-FI
K1A660
37805-RK1-A660

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REPAIR PROCEDURE
NOTE:
• Only update the vehicle if the client indicates there is a judder; otherwise your claim may be subject to
debit.
• You can’t update the vehicle using the MVCI as a standalone tool.
• Connect a fully charged jumper battery to the vehicle and leave it connected during the entire procedure to
maintain steady voltage.
• Never turn the ignition to OFF or ACCESSORY during the update. If there is a problem with the update, leave
the ignition turned to ON.
• To prevent PCM control unit damage, do not operate anything electrical (headlights, audio system, brakes, A/C,
power windows, door locks, etc.) during the update.
1. Make sure the correct odometer reading is recorded on the RO.
2. Update the PGM-FI or the A/T software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-026, Updating Control Units/ Modules.
NOTE: The update screen will prompt you to enter a bulletin number. Do not enter a bulletin number and use the
J2534 Rewrite.
3. Start the engine, and let it warm up to operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on). Position the vehicle on a
lift, and turn the engine off.
4. Remove the ATF filler bolt and the sealing washer.
5. Raise the vehicle and make sure it is securely supported.
6. Remove the drain plug and drain the ATF.
7. Install the drain plug using a new drain sealing washer, and torque it to 49 N.m (36 lb-ft).
8. Lower the vehicle, then refill the transmission with 3.6 quarts of ATF DW-1 through the filler hole.
9. Install the ATF filler bolt using a new sealing washer and torque it to 44 N.m (32 lb-ft).
10. Check that the fluid is filled to the proper level.
11. Return the vehicle to the customer. If the vehicle comes back with the customer indicating there is a judder, go to
service bulletin 16-036, Warranty Extension: 2009–11 TL Torque Converter.
END

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