Common mistakes in reading and writing the ECU file
Power Fluctuations:
Voltage fluctuations during programming can be considered one of the main causes of ECU failure, and there is an important point to note here.
This issue often occurs during programming via OBD for various reasons, such as not using a voltage stabilizer, port failure, or human error.
If this problem happens while reading the ECU and the connection between the device and the ECU is interrupted, it can usually be fixed.
However, if it occurs while writing (loading) the file and the connection is interrupted, in about 90% of cases you will not be able to reprogram the ECU through the OBD port. In that situation, if your programmer supports boot mode programming, you can recover the ECU; otherwise, you may face repair costs of several hundred dollars.
The solution to this problem is to use a stabilizer that controls power fluctuations and prevents damage to the ECU during reading and writing.
Please note that a similar problem can occur when reading and writing to the ECU via OBD if your laptop battery runs out! So pay attention to this point as well!
Reading the Wrong File:
When reading an ECU file, you generally have access to three layers of information:
- Internal Flash
- EEPROM
- Microprocessor
The first layer is the internal flash. This is the part of data that all tuners work with, containing the engine control tables and maps such as Fuel, Spark, EGT, Turbo tables and etc. This means that if you want to perform stage tuning, eco remapping, or solutions such as AdBlue off or DPF delete, reading the internal flash is sufficient.
The second layer contains a special set of data. It not only includes the internal flash information but also additional details such as the VIN (chassis number), immobilizer data, mileage, and more. This layer is called the internal EEPROM.
The third and final layer is the microprocessor or full backup, which contains all the information accessible in the ECU (including both the first and second layers). We usually recommend using this option before performing any modification or ECU remap, so that if something goes wrong, you can restore the ECU or carry out ECU cloning.
Conclusion:
Before reading the ECU, make sure you understand what you intend to do, so you read the correct layer.
Purpose of Remapping:
It might seem strange to mention this here, but many people do not understand the true purpose of remapping. You need to know precisely what services are available for remapping, in what situations to refer to them, and what output to expect.
To better understand this, consider cases where individuals attempt to remap vehicles that have mechanical issues. This not only does not solve the problem but can even exacerbate it.
Therefore, you should understand the difference between stage tuning and ECU solution files, and know what problems each can solve.
Incorrect Connector Connections:
The most common mistake when reading and writing to an ECU is incorrectly connecting the connectors in bench mode and boot mode. In these two methods, any mistake can lead to the loss of the ECU file. So, in this process, carefully check the catalogs related to each ECU or vehicle provided by your programmer and act accordingly with precision.
Soldering Mistakes:
As the name suggests, this mistake occurs only during soldering in boot mode. Reading and writing files through boot mode (the ECU board) is not an unusual or difficult task, but it is time-consuming and requires precision and patience.
If you mistakenly connect something while working with the board, choose the wrong place, or even damage the ICs, capacitors, or resistors, you increase the risk of destroying the ECU! So, pay attention during this process and proceed according to the guide.
Writing the Wrong File:
It might seem strange, but sometimes this occurs for many tuners and even for some of the most experienced ones! So, try to store and use all the files you have for a project in an organized and precise manner.
Using the Right Programmer:
First, ensure that your programmer is capable of reading and writing to the ECU you want to work with. It doesn't matter which of the three common methods (OBD port, bench mode, boot mode) you are using; just make sure that the programmer you are using can read or write to your intended ECU. To do this, you need to check the ECU compatibility list from the manufacturer of your programmer.
Additionally, never use fake programmers, as they significantly increase the risk of damaging the ECU.
