How to perform PCM flash reprogramming on GM cars?
Introduction of PCM Flash Reprogramming on GM, Ford, Chrysler Cars 1 1.When the software has finished loading, the message “PROGRAMMING COMPLETE” will appear. 2 2.Turn the ignition OFF, then disconnect the scan tool. Depending on the application, it may be necessary to run one or... More ...
How do I reflash a Chrysler PCM?
Before you begin a reflash on a Chrysler PCM, the programming application needs to establish successful communication with the vehicle computer. This can be accomplished by doing the following steps: Temporarily disconnect all aftermarket alarms, remote start systems, audio systems to prevent electronic interference.
Who can reflash a PCM?
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.
Where can I get a PCM update for my car?
Out advice is to leave PCM updates to a knowledgeable professional. If your vehicle needs a flash update, take it to the car dealer or a qualified repair shop and let them do the update. Note that, this is not originated by uobdii.com. Copyright AA1Car Adapted from an article written by Larry Carley for Underhood Service magazine
How do I reprogram a GM PCM?
1:595:12GM Service Repair Programming | ACDelco TechConnect - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn ignition off verify the vehicle's battery is fully charged turn ignition on engine off connectMoreTurn ignition off verify the vehicle's battery is fully charged turn ignition on engine off connect the J 2534. Device to the data link connector then connect your de 25 34 device to the PC switch.
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.
Can you flash a PCM with Forscan?
Can Forscan Reprogram Pcm? The Forscan software has never been able to flash or upgrade calibration files or reprogram programmable modules.
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.
How much does it cost to flash a PCM?
The PCM reprogramming cost is usually somewhere around $80 – $150. The PCM reprogramming will help your car run smoothly as intended if there are any errors or bugs in the software.
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 you flash a car computer?
0:291:55How to Reprogram Your Car's Computer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo today i'm going to show you a new tool the flash 2 reprogrammer by cardone industries itMoreSo today i'm going to show you a new tool the flash 2 reprogrammer by cardone industries it reprograms the computer on your vehicle. Without taking anything off it just plugs into the dash.
How do you program a VIN after an ECU swap?
1:412:39How to program VIN after ECU swap. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo pretty simple nothing fancy. You will go to VIN read write. And once you're programming. It willMoreSo pretty simple nothing fancy. You will go to VIN read write. And once you're programming. It will not program if the car is running. So when it says ignition.
Where can I download Forscan?
The Forscan program in the Package you received is downloadable and usable, for free by anyone from the Forscan products web site here: https://forscan.org/download.html. Licensing information can also be found at that same site.
How do I reflash my GM ECM?
4:3712:34How to Reflash Modules on GM Vehicles! Step by step ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere. Now to start off you're going to select a j2534 tool and then you can either choose toMoreHere. Now to start off you're going to select a j2534 tool and then you can either choose to reprogram an existing ecu or replace. And program ecu if you're installing a new ecu.
How long does it take to flash a PCM?
The reprogramming procedure usually takes 30-40 minutes. 9. When the software has finished loading, it will note that programming is complete. The data is then transferred to the PCM's memory chip.
Where can I update my PCM?
You may request to change your PCM at any time. Your request: Must comply with guidelines at the local military hospital or clinic. May take up to 6 days to confirm.
How do I reset my powertrain control module?
0:515:12How To Clear Your PCM'S Memory On Fords After Repairs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPut one on that side you can keep the positive on the terminal there. And then we're gonna put theMorePut one on that side you can keep the positive on the terminal there. And then we're gonna put the other one on here on the actual terminal that goes to the body and the engine a lot stuff.
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.
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.
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.
Can a PCM be reprogrammed?
PCMs built with EEPROM chips can be reprogrammed in a matter of minutes without having to remove the PCM or replace a single chip. It is all done digitally with the proper access codes and input data. Following the Geo Storm, GM began phasing in PCMs with flash reprogrammable chips in a variety of cars and trucks.
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.
Step 1: Just the Basics
I added an ALDL connector and a toggle switch for the ignition. In addition to power and ground I only wired pin 2 for the serial data since I only work on older GM stuff. You can add more pins if you want like CAN or GMLAN etc.
Step 2: Testing the Interface
Before I trust it to my expensive interface I'll test it out using elmscan and a $12 ELM327 box. If I get a good initialization I'll connect the hp interface next. Then flash a new tune and get it ready to be installed....
Step 3: Other Modules
You can do a similar thing for the other modules from your car. I use the same RS232 pins for the IPC and SIR modules.
GM Tuning
Custom Tuning and Data Acquisition
- Preparing a PCM for use with any engine conversion requires custom programming. A new PCM does not contain a calibration ready for use and a PCM pulled from a used vehicle contains parameters preventing fuel delivery without satisfying vehicle antitheft system (VATS) requirements. VATS eliminator modules exist in the aftermarket but they do nothing more than s…
Handheld Tuners
- Handheld tuners are simple devices that allow limited calibration changes to the PCM. These handy devices are tailored toward individual vehicle use, as the device is locked to that vehicle once calibration changes are made. They allow updates related to spark timing, fuel delivery, idle speed, transmission shift behavior, and other basic parameters. Before purchasing a handheld t…
Tuning Equipment
- Having the right tools for the job goes a long way in getting your Gen III PCM-controlled engine swap running well. A professional tuner has the equipment necessary for providing a quality tuning solution. Due to the high costs associated with some tuning equipment, you may choose to only purchase some of the equipment related to custom tuning and PCM data acquisition. Lapto…