How to update firmware on Honda CRV?

Firmware updates for the Honda CR‑V are typically delivered through the vehicle’s infotainment system or via a USB update package from Honda; in some cases, dealer involvement is required. Keeping firmware current can improve performance, fix bugs, and add features.

In this article, you’ll learn to identify the types of updates that exist for a CR‑V, where to find them, and step-by-step methods for infotainment, navigation/maps, and vehicle-system updates. You’ll also find safety tips and guidance on when a dealer is needed.

Understanding the types of firmware in a CR-V

There are three broad categories of firmware that might receive updates in a CR‑V: the infotainment system (the touchscreen interface and apps), built‑in navigation/map data (if your model has navigation), and critical vehicle control modules (ECU/BCM and other control units). Not all updates are user-installable; some require dealer access or official service campaigns. Updates aim to improve usability, add features, fix security issues, and address known bugs.

Infotainment and navigation updates (in-car options)

In-car update options

These steps cover updates you can perform from the vehicle’s own systems or via HondaLink, depending on year and trim.

1. Ensure the vehicle is parked, the engine is on, and the 12‑volt battery is healthy or charging.


2. Connect to a reliable internet source. Some models use built‑in Wi‑Fi, while others rely on a connected smartphone via HondaLink.


3. On the touchscreen, go to Settings and look for System Updates (the exact path may vary by model year).


4. If an update is shown, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install it. Don’t interrupt the process.


5. If your model supports HondaLink, you can also check for updates in the HondaLink app and initiate them from there if prompted by the vehicle.


6. When the update completes, the system may restart. Verify the new version under System Information or About/Version in Settings.

Availability and steps can vary by model year and trim. Some CR‑V configurations may not support in‑car updates and will rely on USB or dealer methods instead.

USB-based updates and official downloads

Preparing and applying updates from USB

For infotainment and navigation updates that aren’t delivered over‑the‑air, Honda often provides a downloadable update package you transfer to a USB drive. This method requires a computer, a USB drive formatted correctly, and the exact update for your vehicle model year.

1. Visit Honda’s official support site, locate the CR‑V firmware or navigation/map update page for your model year, and download the correct package to your computer.


2. Prepare a USB flash drive formatted as FAT32 (check the site’s instructions for any file‑structure requirements).


3. Copy the update package onto the USB drive and safely eject it.


4. Park the car, turn the ignition on, and insert the USB drive into the vehicle’s USB port.


5. On the infotainment screen, navigate to Settings or Updates and choose Update from USB (the wording may vary).


6. Follow the prompts to install. The system may restart automatically during the process.

Afterward, verify the update version in Settings > System Information (or equivalent). If the process fails, reformat the USB drive, re-download the package, or contact Honda support for guidance.

Dealer-assisted updates and recalls

When to contact the dealer

Firmware updates for critical vehicle systems—such as engine control, transmission, braking, or other safety‑related modules—are usually performed by authorized technicians. These updates may be distributed as part of a service campaign or recall, and attempting to perform them yourself can risk unintended consequences.

1. Check for open campaigns or recalls for your CR‑V on Honda’s official site or the NHTSA database using your VIN.


2. If a dealer recommends a firmware update for any vehicle control module, schedule a service appointment.


3. Bring your VIN and the current software version (if known) to the service advisor to help speed up the process.


4. Have the update performed with proper diagnostic tools and follow‑up testing as advised by the technician.


5. After the update, confirm all systems operate normally and the updated version is recorded in the vehicle’s service history.

Important: These updates are typically not user‑installable and should be completed by authorized technicians to avoid risk to vehicle safety and reliability.

Verifying updates and safety tips

To maximize success and safety when updating firmware, keep these practices in mind:

• Always perform updates while the vehicle is stationary, with the engine on or battery sufficiently charged; avoid power interruptions.


• Use only official Honda sources (HondaLink, Honda’s support site, or an authorized dealer) for downloads and updates.


• Do not remove the USB drive or interrupt the update process until it completes and you’ve verified the version.


• Record the firmware version after updates for future reference and troubleshooting.

If you encounter persistent failures or unexpected behavior after an update, contact Honda support or your nearest dealership for assistance.

Summary

Updating the Honda CR‑V’s firmware typically involves in‑car update tools, USB‑based download packages from Honda, or dealer-assisted service campaigns. Start with in‑car updates or official HondaLink checks, use USB updates when available, and rely on a dealer for any critical vehicle‑system firmware. Regularly verifying the update and following safety best practices helps maintain performance, security, and reliability.

How do I update my Honda system?

You can update Honda software either over-the-air (OTA) using a Wi-Fi connection or through a USB drive. To update wirelessly, go to System Updates on your vehicle's display, select Download and then Install Now or Install While Vehicle Off. For the USB method, you must download the update file from the Honda website to a pre-formatted FAT32 USB drive, then insert it into your vehicle and follow the prompts on the System Updates menu. 
Wireless (Over-the-Air) update
This video demonstrates how to update the Honda infotainment system wirelessly: 1mNexologyYouTube · Oct 28, 2025

1. Connect to a Wi-Fi network. 
2. Navigate to System Updates on the display audio screen. If you don't see it on the home screen, check under All Apps. 
3. The system will automatically check for updates. 
4. When a new update is available, a notification may appear. Select the update icon or the notification. 
5. Choose to download the update. 
6. After it's downloaded, select Install Now or Install While Vehicle Off. 

USB update
This video shows how to update your Honda infotainment system using a USB drive: 58sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Oct 25, 2024

1. Visit the Honda website for your specific vehicle model to find the correct update file. 
2. Download the file to a USB drive that is at least 8GB and formatted to FAT32. Delete any old files from the USB drive before starting. 
3. Insert the USB drive into your vehicle's USB data port. 
4. From the display audio screen, select System Updates. 
5. Choose the option for a USB update, which may be labeled as Via USB or Other Methods > Via USB. 
6. Select Install Now or Install While Vehicle Off when prompted. 
7. Once the update is complete, you may need to upload a report back through the website. 

Important considerations

• Do not operate the display audio unit while the software is installing. 
• The wireless update method cannot be used in locations with a captive portal that requires browser login. 
• Keep the vehicle's power on during the update, or ensure the power is off during the "Install While Vehicle Off" period. 
• Some updates may also be available through the HondaLink app on a compatible smartphone. 

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. 

How to check Honda software update?

In your vehicle, insert USB drive into the USB data port. Go to your vehicle select “System Updates”. Follow onscreen instructions.

How do I do a firmware update?

How to update firmware on different devices

1. Identify the device model and manufacturer.
2. Check for firmware updates.
3. Download the firmware update.
4. Connect the device and install the firmware update.
5. Wait for the update to complete.
6. Verify the firmware update.