Following the Geo Storm, GM began phasing in PCMs with flash reprogrammable chips in a variety of cars and trucks. By 1995, most GM models had the flash reprogrammable PCMs. Ford and Chrysler were also doing the same thing as OBD II arrived on all cars and light trucks in model year 1996.
Full Answer
What year did GM start using Flash reprogrammable PCMS?
Following the Geo Storm, GM began phasing in PCMs with flash reprogrammable chips in a variety of cars and trucks. By 1995, most GM models had the flash reprogrammable PCMs. Ford and Chrysler were also doing the same thing as OBD II arrived on all cars and light trucks in model year 1996.
Can Flash Flash reprogram a PCM?
Flash reprogramming PCMs is NOT for the feint of heart. First, you have to have a scan tool or J2534 device that can reprogram your vehicle’s computer.
How do you reprogram a PCM out of a car?
Most Gen III PCM benchtop programming harnesses are fully sufficient to reprogram the PCM out of the vehicle using a simple 12V power supply hookup. These harnesses pass through the 12V battery, switched ignition, ground, and serial data circuit.
What kind of reprogramming do you use for Chrysler PCMS?
Generic reprogramming tools can also be used to reflash Chrysler PCMs, but Chrysler says they have encountered some problems with certain J2534 devices. This involves all their powertrain SCI engine computers from 1996 to 2004, and some PCMs from 2005.
Can you flash a PCM yourself?
Doing your own flash reprogramming is not without risk. Any number of things can go wrong during the installation process which may result in an incomplete update or a frozen PCM.
What is PCM flash reprogramming?
Powertrain Control Module reflashing is essentially a software upgrade. PCMs are built with microchips that can be reprogrammed electronically without being removed from the vehicle. Dealers or car repair shops might call it a PCM or ECM reprogramming service. They all refer to an upgrade of your PCM's microchip.
Can you reprogram a PCM at home?
Reprogramming a PCM requires a J2534 Pass Thru device. There are a dozen or more on the market, and some scan tools have pass thru capabilities too. To reprogram a PCM, the tool must comply with SAE Standard J2534-1. You can also use a J2534-2 pass thru tool that can reprogram other control modules as well as the PCM.
Does a PCM have to be flashed?
Reflashing must be done in the car. If you replace a failed GM PCM with an unprogrammed service unit, a program must be written into the PCM before the car will run, but the PCM must be installed in the car to load the program. If you own flashing equipment, it's no problem.
How much does it cost to get a PCM flashed?
Prices could range from $80 to $150, depending on the service location you choose. The process takes around about half an hour, but keep in mind that most auto-electricians charge you for at least one hour of work. PCM reprogramming is also one of the few times we'll recommend a dealership over an independent mechanic.
How much does it cost to have a PCM reprogrammed?
In most cases, you'll have to pay around $80 – $150 for a Powertrain Control Module reprogramming. The process entails connecting the car's PCM to a computer with the manufacturer's software and then updating the PCM with the latest software.
What scan tool can reprogram PCM?
To reprogram a PCM or other vehicle module, you need a factory scan tool, or an aftermarket scan tool with reprogramming capabilities, or a J-2534 compliant "PassThru" interface tool (or J-2534-1 for 2004 & newer vehicles) that can connect a PC or scan tool to the vehicle's diagnostic connector or module.
Can I program my ECU myself?
Entering programming mode Ensure the OBD-II vehicle interface is properly connected. Switch the ignition to ON but do not yet start the engine. Choose Detect Vehicle… from the Tools menu, then select Program Engine ECU when the window appears, and click OK. Select Program ENgine ECU to enter programming mode.
How do I flash a ECM program?
2:165:58How to Reflash ECM ECU LT1 PCM RE flash RE program ! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd try this one. Open it should be in 91 tune. Ignition still on yeah well set okay and yeah thisMoreAnd try this one. Open it should be in 91 tune. Ignition still on yeah well set okay and yeah this is it you just gotta wait the computer is going to freak out again a bunch of things clicking.
How do I flash GM modules?
2:1612:34How to Reflash Modules on GM Vehicles! Step by step walk through ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn in the upper. Right hand corner simple username and password.MoreIn in the upper. Right hand corner simple username and password.
How long does it take to flash a PCM?
The flash procedure can takes from a few minutes up to an hour depending on the file size of the software you are installing . The newer and more complex the vehicle, the longer it typically takes to flash the PCM.
When is a reflash required for OBD II?
A reflash may also be required if the factory settings for the OBD II self-diagnostics turn out to be overly sensitive – especially after a few years of operation. The same goes for driveability. What works fine in a brand new car many not work so great after 50,000 or 100,000 miles of real-world driving.
What do I need to connect my PC to my OBD II?
Other items that are needed include a cable to connect the PC to the scan tool or J2534 pass-through device , and a cable to connect the scan tool or J2534 pass-through device to the OBD II connector on the vehicle. For GM applications, you need a Tech 2 scan tool or Vetronix Mastertech.
Why does cleaning EGR valve not fix code?
Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve and clearing the code does not fix the vehicle because the code usually returns. The real problem is the OBD II programming in the PCM. When the PCM commands the EGR valve to open to check its operation, it isn’t allowing enough time for the valve to respond.
When did OBD II come out?
Ford and Chrysler were also doing the same thing as OBD II arrived on all cars and light trucks in model year 1996. Today, virtually all PCMs have reprogramming capabilities as do many other onboard control modules (ABS, air bags, climate control, body controller, etc.).
How much does it cost to access OEM databases?
Yearly and monthly access fees to OEM databases tend to be very pricey, but one-day or short-term access fees are typically available for $20 to $25. Some vehicle manufacturers provide their flash updates on a CD once you pay their subscription fee.
Can GM use battery chargers?
GM does NOT approve using a battery charger, unless it is a GM-approved Midtronics charger (which delivers very consistent voltage with no fluctuations). On some vehicles, removing the fuses for the fan relays, fuel pump or other modules may be required to prevent these devices from turning on during the procedure.
What is a flash PCM?
Flash reprogrammable PCMs have been used in vehicles since the 1990s. The first such application was the 1990 Geo Storm. Previously, Program Read Only Memory (PROM) chips held all of the PCMs vital calibration information and operating instructions. GM pioneered the replaceable PROM chip as a way of programming PCMs to fit a wide range of GM makes and models. A replaceable PROM chip also meant the PCM could be “retuned” if necessary to correct certain kinds of emissions or driveability problems. It also meant that if a bug was later discovered in the original factory programming, it could be corrected in the field by simply replacing the original PROM with an updated corrected PROM (a tactic GM has successfully used over the years to fix many factory flaws). Performance enthusiasts also liked replaceable PROMs because the chip could be replaced with one that provided more spark advance, fuel enrichment, a higher rev limit, etc., to squeeze more power out of the engine.
When did GM start using PCMs?
Following the Geo Storm, GM began phasing in PCMs with flash reprogrammable chips in a variety of cars and trucks. By 1995, most GM models had the flash reprogrammable PCMs. Ford and Chrysler were also doing the same thing as OBD II arrived on all cars and light trucks in model year 1996.
What tool is used for Chrysler PCM?
To avoid such problems, Chrysler recommends using the J2534 Vehiclebox tool device while performing SCI protocol-based reprogramming using their J2534 flash application. Before you begin a reflash on a Chrysler PCM, the programming application needs to establish successful communication with the vehicle computer.
What scan tool is used for GM?
For older GM applications, you can use a Tech 2 scan too l or Vetronix scan tool or other aftermarket J2534 pass thru tool. For older Ford applications, you can use a Ford New Generation Star (NGS) scan tool, or an IDS scan tool or aftermarket J2534 pass thru tool for newer Ford vehicles.
Why does cleaning EGR valve not fix code?
Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve and clearing the code does not fix the vehicle because the code usually returns. The real problem is the OBD II programming in the PCM. When the PCM commands the EGR valve to open to check its operation, it isn’t allowing enough time for the valve to respond.
Why do PCMs need to be reprogrammed?
PCMs may need to be reprogrammed for several reasons. One is to fix factory bugs. Every time Bill Gates rushes yet another version of Windows to market to perpetuate the Microsoft revenue stream, it always turns out to have bugs and security holes that were somehow missed but must be fixed by downloading and installing the latest Windows “service pack.” It’s a never-ending cycle of upgrades and patches. Fortunately, it is not that bad yet with automotive PCMs, but it has become a crutch for automakers who rush products to market that aren’t quite ready. This philosophy of “build it now and fix it later” creates a lot of unnecessary recalls, but at least it gives technicians a way to fix factory mistakes without having to replace any parts.
How long does it take to flash a PCM?
Losing the connection part way through an installation may royally screw up the PCM! The flash procedure can takes from a few minutes up to an hour depending on the file size of the software you are installing. The newer and more complex the vehicle, the longer it typically takes to flash the PCM.
PCM Programming is Nothing New
Flash reprogrammable PCMs have been ussed in vehicles since the 1990s. The first such application was the 1990 Geo Storm. Previously, Program Read Only Memory (PROM) chips held all of the PCMs vital calibration information and operating instructions.
Why Reprogram PCM?
PCMs may need to be reprogrammed for several reasons. One is to fix factory bugs.
Who Can Do PCM Reflashes
Historically, car dealers have been the only ones who had access to the tools and software needed to reflash PCMs. Thanks to the passing of Senate Bill 1146 in September 2000, vehicle manufacturers must now make this technology available to independent repair shops and individuals at reasonable cost.
GM Flash Updates
On GM vehicles, a list of flash updates that are available can be found on GM's Vehicle PCM Calibration Information website at https://tis2web.service.gm.com/tis2web.
Ford Flash Procedure
With Ford vehicles, a somewhat different approach is used. First, you need the vehicle calibration ID number. This can be found on a sticker somewhere in the engine compartment. Next, you have to figure out if there is a newer calibration available.
Chrysler Flash Procedure
Chrysler's flash procedure is sort of a cross between GM and Ford's procedures. First you go to the www.techauthority.com website and download their "benchtop Programmer" software to your PC. Then you download a huge pdf file ( "J2534 Flash Availability") that lists all Chrysler PCMs and their software updates.
What is an update on a PCM?
An update is used to make calibration changes only. If the operating system (OS) must be changed (for example throttle type or transmission type), a full flash is required. For Gen III PCMs, once the OS has been flashed into the PCM, only updates are required to finish the calibration work.
What is EFILive software?
EFILive bundles a high-end interface cable that features an LCD display and keypad for data functions such as black box logging and diagnostic trouble code retrieval. Although not all interface cables feature an LCD display, most include inputs for adding data from external sensors such as a wide-band O2 or thermocouple.
Can Gen 3 PCMs be tuned?
Although Gen III PCMs are powerful control modules, they are of little use without tuning software tochange engine ( and transmission) operating parameters. You may find that the best results involve a blend of tuning services at an experienced dyno facility and final do-it-yourself tweaking using a popular scan-and-tune software package.
Can you use a 2002 Express Van PCM on a 2002 Corvette?
To put it another way, you can turn a 2002 Express Van PCM into a 2002 Corvette PCM. Because the PCM service number (GM# 12200411) is the same for both vehicles, the calibration can be interchanged. As an example, someone using an LS1 Corvette engine need not source the PCM directly from a Corvette.
Can Gen 4 ECMs be overwritten?
Gen IV ECMs cannot be fully overwritten with custom tuning software. If, for example, you are working with an LS2 engine pulled from a 2005 Pontiac GTO and source an ECM from a 2005 Corvette, the ECM must first be reprogrammed with GM’s TIS2Web software using a 2005 GTO VIN.