I finally asked my local dealer about the cost of tranny software update, the cost itself isn't too bad, but they're charging ridiculously high fees for tranny flush, so my question is can I insisted to let them update the software w/out the tranny flush and take it to another shop afterward (2 days later?), does the timing matter?

 

That shouldn't be a problem. However, typically when you have that update done they will insist on you doing a flush. It's completely up to you.

 

How much are they charging for the transmission fluid change (3x fill/empty)? I think my independent mechanic charged $180.

 

I think my mechanic charged me $200 for the transmission fluid change last year, so it should be in that ballpark for pricing.

 

There are two Acura dealerships in my city - The first one wanted $650 to perform the software update with a full fluid change. They said it NEEDED a fluid change if they were to update the software. I told them that I just did a fluid change on my own, and they said it didn't matter. I told them to get lost.

The second dealership said yeah that's cool, half an hour of labor and it was $75

You don't necessarily need to change your fluid during this process. If the fluid is in good condition, there should be no issue with just getting the software update. Though if the fluid is in poor condition, you obviously want to change that.

A 3x3 drain and fill of the transmission is pretty easy to do in your own garage. The same thing as an oil change, just without the filter.

If you are experiencing adverse transmission behavior, a software update, fluid change, and possibly pressure switch replacement will be your best bet.

 

that's pretty much what I was quoted for

1/2 hour for software update
$300 for TF (Tranny Fluid?)
$170 for TC (???)

optional Differential fluid change $218