Are Honda updates free?
Most Honda software updates are free, especially infotainment and safety-system fixes; built-in navigation map updates, however, typically require payment after any initial trial. Availability depends on model year, region, and update type.
This article breaks down which updates are commonly free, which may incur charges, and how to determine whether your vehicle qualifies for a free update. It also covers how to check for updates and how policies vary by market.
What kinds of updates are typically free
Overview: Free updates usually cover software bug fixes, stability improvements, and safety-system adjustments, as well as recalls addressed through service campaigns.
Infotainment and vehicle software
Infotainment system software, app updates, and other electronic control unit (ECU) firmware updates are commonly offered at no charge when they address bugs, improve usability, or are part of a service campaign.
- Infotainment system updates (head unit, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration) delivered over-the-air or at a dealership without charge in many markets.
- ECU firmware improvements for features like climate control, steering/drive assist, or other electronics when issued as part of a recall or service bulletin and completed at no cost.
- Software patches that address known issues and are deployed through Honda’s official channels, often at no charge during the vehicle’s warranty period or as part of a recall program.
Note: Availability and eligibility depend on your vehicle’s model year, region, and warranty status.
Safety and driver-assist feature updates
Honda occasionally releases updates for driver-assist systems that are deployed as recalls or service campaigns; these are typically performed at no charge at a dealership or via OTA if supported.
- Software updates to Honda Sensing features or collision mitigation systems released as part of a product improvement campaign.
- Critical fixes to sensor calibration or control algorithms that Honda issues via service bulletin; free when completed at a dealer.
Conclusion: Free updates generally cover software-related fixes and safety recalls; not all updates are free, particularly navigation and certain feature upgrades.
What updates may cost money
Overview: Navigation map updates and some optional feature upgrades are commonly charged after any included trial period or beyond what the warranty covers.
Navigation map updates
Built-in navigation map updates often require a subscription or one-time fee after an included trial or initial update period; the cost varies by market and model year.
- Annual or multi-year map update subscriptions for built-in navigation systems (HERE or other providers used by Honda).
- Some regions include the first year of map updates with new-car purchases, after which ongoing updates incur fees.
- Updates may be supplied via dealer packages or through Honda’s online portal; prices and availability differ by model and region.
Tip: Even when updates aren’t free, you can usually continue using the existing maps without updates, though navigation accuracy improves with current maps.
Premium features and hardware limitations
Additional paid update options or hardware limitations may apply for newer features or for models whose hardware can’t support the latest software without replacement or added modules.
- Paid update packs for advanced infotainment features not included in the base package.
- Hardware-reliant updates or re-flashes that require dealer labor or part replacements for compatibility with new software.
Note: Always verify with a Honda dealer about eligibility and fees for your specific model and region.
How to check your update status
To verify what updates are available for your Honda, follow these steps:
- Log in to the Honda Owner Portal or MyHonda app to view available software updates and patch notes for your vehicle, along with update history.
- Check your vehicle’s infotainment or settings menu for a “Software Update” or “System Update” option to see the current version and pending updates.
- Contact your local Honda service department to confirm whether updates are free or have a cost; provide your VIN for an accurate quote.
- For safety-related updates or recalls, check SaferCar.gov or the NHTSA VIN lookup to confirm eligibility and timing; recalls are typically performed at no charge.
Note: OTA update availability depends on model year and market; some updates require in-person service.
Regional differences and staying informed
Policies vary by market (US, Europe, Asia) and can change over time; always verify with official sources. Some regions offer free updates for a limited window after purchase, while others move to paid models after trial periods or for non-essential features.
Summary
In general, Honda provides free updates for infotainment and safety-related software, and for recalls or service campaigns. Built-in navigation map updates, however, are often not free after an initial free period and may require purchase or a subscription. To confirm what applies to your vehicle, check the Honda Owner Portal or MyHonda app, contact your local dealer, and review official recall information from safety authorities.
