Can I update my Honda system?
Yes, you can update your Honda system. Honda regularly releases software updates for its vehicles to improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. These updates can be installed through your Honda dealer or, in some cases, downloaded and installed directly by the vehicle owner.
Understanding Honda System Updates
Honda's in-vehicle systems, such as the infotainment system, navigation, and driver assistance features, are powered by software that can be updated periodically. These updates are designed to enhance the functionality and user experience of your Honda vehicle.
Updates may include improvements to the system's user interface, bug fixes, security patches, and the addition of new capabilities. For example, a navigation system update might include updated maps, traffic data, and points of interest, while an infotainment system update could bring support for new smartphone integration features.
How to Update Your Honda System
There are a few ways you can update your Honda system:
- Dealer Updates: Your Honda dealer can perform system updates during scheduled maintenance or service visits. They have access to the latest software versions and can ensure the update is properly installed.
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Some Honda models with connected services may receive updates wirelessly, directly to the vehicle. These OTA updates can be downloaded and installed automatically or with user approval, depending on the vehicle's settings.
- Manual Updates: In some cases, you may be able to download system updates from Honda's website and install them yourself using a USB drive or other method. This option is typically reserved for more tech-savvy owners.
It's important to keep your Honda system up-to-date to ensure optimal performance, security, and access to the latest features. Check with your Honda dealer or consult your owner's manual to learn more about the update process for your specific vehicle model.
Can you update vehicle software?
Vehicle software updates on eligible vehicles can be performed by your servicing Dealer. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about a vehicle software update, you may contact your Dealer for assistance.
Can I update my car software myself?
Yes, you can update your car's software yourself, especially for newer vehicles that support over-the-air (OTA) updates via Wi-Fi or a built-in data connection. For older vehicles or certain complex updates, you may need to manually download files to a USB drive and install them, or even take the vehicle to a dealership.
Over-the-air (OTA) updates
- How it works: Many modern cars automatically download updates when they have a connection, and you just need to follow the on-screen prompts to install them.
- Requirements: You will need a strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection, so avoid parking in underground garages or covered areas where the signal may be weak.
- How to check: You can often find the option to check for updates in your vehicle's infotainment system under the "Settings" or "Vehicle" menu.
This video demonstrates how to install vehicle updates over the air: 49sChevroletYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
Manual updates via USB
- How it works: Some manufacturers allow you to manually download an update file from their website to a USB drive and then install it in your car.
- Requirements: You will need a USB drive of the correct size (often 32GB or larger) and your vehicle identification number (VIN).
- How to check: Visit the manufacturer's support website for your specific model, enter your VIN, and see if a manual update is available.
You can watch this video to learn how to manually update your car's infotainment system using a USB drive: 1mThe Ioniq GuyYouTube · Sep 22, 2024
Important considerations
- Installation complexity: Some software updates are highly complex and may be best left to a dealership to avoid potential issues or damage to your car's systems.
- Free vs. paid: Some updates may be free, but it's important to check your warranty or service plan, as some manufacturers may charge for certain updates, especially if they are a few years old.
- Check with your manufacturer: The best way to determine if you can update the software yourself is to check your owner's manual or visit your manufacturer's official website to see what options are available for your specific vehicle.
Are Honda software updates free?
Is there a charge for this or is Honda obligated to cover them under warranty? I would be interested in bringing my car into the dealership periodically to keep it up-to-date on any issues that have been coming up that they have addressed. Thanks for your help! All the recalls and software update are free for life.
How do I update my Honda infotainment system?
You can update a Honda infotainment system by connecting to a Wi-Fi network and using the "System Updates" menu or by downloading the update file to a USB drive and installing it manually. For wireless updates, navigate to the system updates menu on your touchscreen, select "System Updates," and then choose to download and install the update via Wi-Fi. For a USB update, download the file from the official Honda website onto a USB drive, then insert it into your vehicle's USB port and follow the on-screen instructions to install from USB.
Wireless update
This video demonstrates how to update your Honda infotainment system wirelessly: 1mHondaYouTube · Nov 9, 2017
- Ensure your vehicle is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
- From the home screen, select System Updates.
- If you don't see it, select All Apps, then Settings.
- The system may check for updates automatically. If not, select System Updates again and then Wireless.
- Select Download and then choose either Install Now or Install While Vehicle Off.
USB update
You can also watch this video to learn how to update your Honda infotainment system using a USB drive: 1mNexologyYouTube · Oct 28, 2025
- Go to the Honda website and download the update file for your specific model.
- Copy the downloaded file to a USB drive with at least 8 GB of free space.
- Insert the USB drive into the vehicle's USB data port.
- On the infotainment screen, select System Updates, then Other Methods, and finally Via USB.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
