To start remapping ECUs in the workshop you need four things: a programmer that reads and writes in OBD, Bench and Boot, a stabilised power supply for the battery, a diagnostic tool to read errors and parameters, and a reliable source of modified files. The rest is method: always save the original file, check the checksum and test the car on the road.
The basic equipment
- Programmer: reads and writes the ECU. The modes are OBD (through the diagnostic socket), Bench (on the bench, out of the car) and Boot (on the microcontroller, for protected ECUs).
- Stabilised power supply: during the write, voltage must not drop, otherwise the ECU can lock up.
- Diagnostics: a diagnostic tool to read errors and parameters before and after the job.
- PC and connection, unless you choose a stand-alone tool.
Which programmer
It depends on how you work. A software tool connected to a PC is flexible; a stand-alone tool with a screen and internal battery is handy for people who also work off-site. For those starting from scratch we recommend Flex or The Genius: the card below is The Genius, and in the shop you will find Flex too. If you meet protected ECUs, an accessory for direct access to the microcontroller cuts bench work: see access to protected ECUs in boot mode.
Where you get the modified files
Writing maps yourself requires experience and a test bench. The quickest way to start is the file service: you read the ECU, upload the file and receive the modified one. How it works is explained in file service for workshops. If you want to join the network, you can also consider becoming an installer.
A safe working method
- Read the errors and note the state of the car before touching the ECU.
- Connect the stabilised power supply and check the voltage.
- Read the ECU and save the original file in two copies.
- Write the modified file after checking the checksum and size.
- Road test, re-read the parameters and check there are no new errors.
- Keep everything: if needed, you go back to the original.
Customer, type approval and responsibility
Tell the customer what the job involves, about type approval and possible effects on the warranty. Functions that act on emissions systems are reserved for competition, off-road or export vehicles; on vehicles used on public roads the correct job is diagnosis and repair, as we explain in the overview of AdBlue problems by make.
For those starting out
Want advice on what to buy for your workshop? Write to us with the makes you handle most and we will point you to the right tool. The product below is one of the programmers we recommend to start with.
