Service Bulletin

16-012

February 17, 2016

03246 Version 1

Transmission Function Improvements: Sensation of Surge While
Braking, Slow Downshift Response at Low Engine Speeds, and Other
Listed Symptoms
AFFECTED VEHICLES
Year

Model

Trim

VIN range

2015–16

TLX

V6 2WD with 9-speed A/T

19UUB2…FA021489 and later

2015–16

TLX

V6 AWD with 9-speed A/T

19UUB3…FA007728 and later

BACKGROUND
American Honda has made several shift quality improvements in the 2015 and 2016 TLX V6.
SYMPTOM

UPDATE

There is a sensation of acceleration while coasting down a
hill.
There is a sensation of a surge while braking.
The transmission feels like it stays in gear too long.

Engine mapping has been changed to better manage 8-7
and 5-4 downshifts with the throttle closed.
Transmission mapping on the 5-4-3 downshift when
accelerating at low engine speeds was changed to a 5-3
downshift to provide a quicker acceleration response.

CORRECTIVE ACTION
Update the TCM software. Clear all DTC’s created during the update and do the idle learn procedure.
This software update will change the way the transmission shifts.
After the update it may take up to 30 miles for the transmission to adapt to the client’s driving habits.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
The normal warranty applies.
Labor Operation
Number
2235A2
A

Description

Flat Rate
Time

Update the TCM software.

0.2 hr

Do the idle learn procedure.

0.1 hr

Defect
Code

Symptom
Code

Template ID

Failed Part
Number

03214

03217

16-012N

06280-5L9-A52

Skill Level: Repair Technician

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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SOFTWARE INFORMATION
NOTE: Unnecessary or incorrect repairs resulting from a failure to update the HDS or MVCI are not covered under
warranty.
MVCI Control Module (CM) Update:
Application Version: 3.01.50 or later
Database update: 03-Nov-2015 or later
HDS Software Version:
3.017.012 or later
Before beginning the update, make sure that both the HDS and the MVCI are updated as listed above.
Do only the update listed in this service bulletin.
Check that the MVCI indicates the applicable program ID listed below (or a later program ID) as the Available Update
when the update begins.
If the MVCI displays This vehicle does not need an update at this time during the update, the software for this service
bulletin is already installed.
For more information about updating the HDS, the MVCI, and vehicle systems, refer to Service Bulletin 01-026,
Updating Control Units/Modules.
Programs ID’s
Year/Model
2015-16 2WD BASE, TECH
2015-16 2WD ADVANCED
2015-16 AWD BASE, TECH
2015-16 AWD ADVANCED

Program ID
(or later)
J4A590
J4A690
L9A690
L9A700

Program ID
(or later)
28101-5J4-A590
28101-5J4-A690
28101-5L9-A690
28101-5L9-A700

REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Update the TCM software. Refer to Service Bulletin 01-026, Updating Control Units/Modules.
2. Do the idle learn procedure. Refer to the service information.

END

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