Service Bulletin

20-039

September 15, 2020

Version 1

Emissions Recall: 2017−20 MDX Sport Hybrid Odd Gear Monitor
Software Update
AFFECTED VEHICLES
Year

Model

Trim Level

VIN Range

2017−20

MDX Sport Hybrid

ALL

Check the iN VIN status for eligibility.

BACKGROUND
When the PCM detects a malfunction in one of the odd number transmission gears, it will set one of the following DTCs:
• P073F (unable to engage gear 1)
• P074B (unable to engage gear 3)
• P074D (unable to engage gear 5)
• P074F (unable to engage gear 7)
Due to inappropriate calibration of the PCM, the OBD system cannot properly clear the transmission permanent DTC as
required.
CLIENT 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.
Some vehicles affected by this campaign may be in your new or used vehicle inventory. Repair these vehicles before they
are sold.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Update the PCM software, and clear any DTCs.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
Operation
Number

Description

Flat Rate
Time

1255G1

Update the PCM
software.

0.2 hr

A

Clear the DTCs.

0.1 hr

Defect
Code

Symptom
Code

Template
ID

Failed Part Number

6GM00

J8F00

B20039A

37805-5WS-305

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.

© 2020 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 diagnostic and reprogramming software are not
covered under warranty.
Before beginning the repair, make sure all diagnostic and reprogramming software are updated as listed.
i-HDS Software Version

1.006.013 or later

HDS Software Version

3.104.002 or later

J2534 Rewrite Software Information
PC Application Version

1.2.1.1

Database Update

02-SEP-2020 or later

NoticeDB Version

02-SEP-2020 or later

Update only the systems and software listed in this service bulletin.
American Honda has validated and approved the Denso DST-i as the vehicle communication interface (VCI) to
support this service bulletin.
For more information about updating vehicle systems, refer to service bulletin 01-026, Updating Control Units/Modules.
Year/Model

Vehicle System

Program ID (or later)

2017 MDX Sport Hybrid

PCM

37805-5WS-3050

2018 MDX Sport Hybrid

PCM

37805-5WS-3060

2019 MDX Sport Hybrid

PCM

37805-5WS-3070

2020 MDX Sport Hybrid

PCM

37805-5WS-A620

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REPAIR PROCEDURE
NOTICE
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•
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•
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Make sure the 12-volt battery is fully charged before starting an update.
Connect a fully charged jumper battery to the vehicle, and leave it connected during the entire procedure to maintain
steady voltage.
Do not use the GR8 because the vehicle requires a steady electrical current.
Control module failure caused by the improper completion of a software update (early key cycle, low battery voltage,
disconnected DLC cable, etc.) is not covered by warranty.
If an error occurs during the update or the i-HDS freezes, do not disconnect the battery or turn the ignition to OFF.
Reboot the i-HDS, and start over.
To prevent control unit damage, do not operate anything electrical (headlights, audio system, brakes, A/C, power
windows, door locks, etc.) during the update.
Warranty reimbursement for technician labor is not allowed for routine checking/installation of any available software
update.
NOTE

This update will not require entering a service bulletin number.
1. Update the PCM software using the J2534 Rewrite software with the DST-i. Refer to service bulletin 01-026, Updating
Control Units/Modules.
2. Clear any DTCs set during the update.
3. California residents only: Fill out a Vehicle Emissions Recall – Proof of Correction certificate, and use J8F as the recall
number. Have the service advisor give the certificate to your customer, and advise him or her to keep it as proof that
the recall was completed. Your customer will need to submit this certificate to the DMV only if the DMV requests it. If
you need more certificates, use reorder number Y0657.

END

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