DTC B1170: Gauge Control Module Lost Communication with VSA Modulator-Control Unit (VSA Message)

NOTE: If you are troubleshooting multiple DTCs, be sure to follow the instructions in B-CAN System Diagnosis Test Mode A TROUBLESHOOTING - B-CAN SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS TEST MODE A ).

Clear the DTCs with the HDS.
Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), and then back to ON (II).
Wait for at least 6 seconds.
Check for DTCs with the HDS.
Is DTC B1170 indicated?

YES -Go to step 5.

NO -Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for loose or poor connection between the gauge control module and the VSA modulator-control unit.
Check for VSA System DTCs with the HDS HOW TO USE THE HDS (HONDA DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM) ).
Are there any DTCs indicated?

YES -Go to and troubleshoot the indicated DTCs, then recheck.

NO -Go to step 6.
Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
Disconnect gauge control module connector A (12P).
Disconnect the VSA modulator-control unit 46P connector.
Check for continuity between VSA modulator-control unit 46P connector terminals No. 38 and No. 39 and gauge control module connector A (12P) connector terminals No. 6 and No. 12 respectively.

Fig 1: Checking Continuity Between 46P Connector And Connector A (12P) Connector
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Is there continuity?

YES -Update the VSA modulator-control unit if it does not have the latest software VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT UPDATE ), or substitute a known-good VSA modulator-control unit VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ), and recheck. If the indication goes away, replace the original VSA modulator-control unit VSA MODULATOR-CONTROL UNIT REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ). If the DTC is still present, replace the gauge control module

NO -Repair an open in the wire.