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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Acura MDX, 2012 Acura MDX, 2011 Acura MDX, and 2010 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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.