Flashing — or erasing and reprogramming — your engine’s computer is a legitimate way to keep a car’s engine control modules (ECMs) up to date. This is done on nearly all autos 1996 and newer to ensure microprocessors in such areas as the power train and fuel injectors are regulating their systems properly. Your engine does much better when the programming is up to date. If you need somebody else to do it at a repair shop, it is likely going to cost between $ 80 and $ 120, reports Underhood Service. However, you can flash your car engine yourself – with the right tools.
An engine computer reprogramming
When reprogramming an engine computer, a scanner is attached to the diagnostic port in a car, which is typically inside the car, beneath the steering wheel. The auto manufacturer will replace old software within the car with new programming. Back in the day, the reprogramming process involved removing different parts from the car, but now an USB cable, scanning device, and a quite good Internet connection is all that is needed to work with the diagnostic port. The manufacturer’s website has the new software on it which is flashed onto the ECM.
When to flash an ECM?
Auto repair shops say flashing should be done once each and every few years, and this may be appropriate. When you notice your car needs to be updated on its programming, then it is a good idea to do the flashing then, although if there is a recall then having your car flashed is necessary. Routine maintenance shouldn’t include flashing when doing anything else to make sure your car works.
What a DIY flasher would have to do the job
This is fairly easy. Check out the automobile manufacturer’s site to see if any software updates are available. The update can be put in a device for flash programming. You may need more software if you need to have a proper engine turning. Consult sources such as DIYEFI.org for more specific details. States like California that have tough emissions testing might have special laws outlawing some different aspects of engine programming, so make certain to check with your state’s motor vehicle authority first.
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Further reading
Underhood Services
underhoodservice.com/Article/39556/flash_reprogramming_vehicle_computers.aspx
Scotty Kilmer on reprogramming your car’s computer
youtube.com/watch?v=Mc0aMxSdat4
DIYEFI
diyefi.org/index.htm
