Please take the time to read carefully. And contact me if you have any questions.
"What is flash tuning?"
Flash tuning involves altering the parameters stored within the ECU. This is done by reading the code stored on the ECU, altering it, and writing it back on. In a very simplistic way, it is the same as updating your iPod with new firmware.
"What is altered?"
Many parameters can be altered, it is dependent on the car. For example, with the Mazda MPS range, some of the base parameters altered include boost, fueling and spark advance. These parameters are stored in maps. The best way to describe a map is to compare it to a spreadsheet.
Traction control is not altered unless required.
Also, small modifications may be required to enhance the performance of the tune. You will be advised if required.
"How are Tunes written?"
Flash tunes are the result of a large amount of work. Many hours are spent accessing and de compiling the memory on an ECU. Particularly the newer more modern units.
Once this process is finished, the resulting information needs to analyzed and arranged in such a fashion, one can confidently understand where all the various parameters controlling the motor are located. This is a very lengthy process. It can take months.
Finally, large amounts of time and effort are then spent in testing various changes in order to optimize the final product.
"Can my Dealer detect a tune?"
One of the reasons we check and modify the file from your car is to retain the chassis number and hardware info possibly embedded within the data. This means that when the ECU is scanned, it will return correct information for your car. This helps make it basically undetectable, and why it is important to be car specific!
However, if they hook up to the OBD diagnostic port and log boost parameters and find an abnormally high boost, they'll be asking you questions!!
There is no way to be 100% sure they will not find out you have modified the car! Same can be said for most forms of modding.
"What happens if my Dealer updates my car?"
This seems to be a major concern for some. Simple answer is, you will loose the tune and return to factory settings.
Car updates are done normally when the Manufacturer decides an issue can be solved. Not just for the heck of it. Do not believe that every time you a car in for a service, the ECU/PCM will be reflashed with new factory firmware. This is not usually the case.
Please remember the car is yours, and you have the ability to say no to any updates. This will prevent the new tune being lost.
As a Customer of ECU Flashes, I offer you a service to replace an overwritten tune. This replacement file is free, and I will not charge you my time. However, any expenses incurred in doing so, are paid by the Customer. This includes shipping, postage and travel expenses.
This service is valid for the first year, from the date of initial purchase.
I will not restore cars to standard before a service, and replace the tune afterwards.
"If I disconnect the battery, will I loose the tune?"
No.
"What if I have or add mods?"
There is normally no need to have a custom tune for mods like exhaust, TMIC or CAI's. The ECU will deal with these mods happily. This applies to mods installed before and after a flash tune. The ECU will relearn any parameters it needs to for proper operation.
Experience shows that adding mods normally enhances the tune, as it does under a stock tune.
A custom tune is advised for major work such as heads, cams and modifications that may radically alter sensor data fed to the ECU/PCM.
"Is an upgraded CDFP required?"
An upgraded fuel pump is not required but is recommended. some of the Mazda solenoids can be defective and come to light with the added parameters of the flash tune. This is why we recommend to have your fuel pump tested and replaced if found defective and we also advise customers to purchase the upgraded internal kit for the added horsepower and for safety reasons.
"Why is Flash Tuning expensive?"
Often people ask, and endlessly discuss on forums, why the cost appears high considering that all we do is plug a laptop into your car. After all, this is all they see happening.
Before we even get to the point of programming your car, much has already occurred. In some cases, months of development has taken place to finalize a product. In the case of the Mazda MPS range, almost 4 months of time was invested in testing and R&D.
Consider too, this development is done using expensive test equipment, dynos, software, dataloggers and computers. It is not a five minute deal.
Another point many are not aware of is the price of the actual equipment we use to to interface to your car. So you can that the costs are very high in this business. Each file sold therefore has an inherent cost. This is a commercial reality and unavoidable.
We suggest that you look at our competitor's web sites and compare prices. You will find that we offer a very reasonable price, and a much more personalized experience. In some cases you may be surprised how much you can save. The fact is, we use similar, if not the same, equipment to program your car as many other Tuners. All the gear is professional grade, with great technical support, and more than capable of programming your car.
"Does flash tuning need to be done on a dyno?"
In most cases, no. Flash tunes are designed to be safe across a model range. Much time, money and testing is invested into creating a flash tune. You can be sure it is suitable.
If you have an extreme set of modifications, we would advise dynotuning.
"Why do you not list exact specifications?"
The issue of exactly what parameters are altered, and to what value, is often beaten to death on car forums. People and companies are sometimes accused of withholding information, being dishonest, lying and even incompetent. All of which are furthest from the truth.
Exact specifications are not often released as this is proprietary information. Especially when in a developmental phase. It is commercially sensitive information. So from this perspective almost no Tuner will give you exact specifications. Only ballpark. This is a common occurrence, and not unusual.
We all wish to protect the information, knowledge and files we have all worked very hard to develop. Just like any other company trying to protect its proprietary knowledge and information.
"Will a tune damage my car?"
As with all modding, there is always that chance. The risk is no more or less than any high performance modification. And it also depends on how radically you drive.
It is also extremely important your car is in perfect running order before tuning. High performance tuning will not fix problems, it will more than likely exaggerate them. We have tests that can check your car, and report to you if we can see potential problems. You will be advised of potential issues before any work is performed.
"What will I notice after the Tune, and what should I do?"
First off, be careful!
The car will have a lot more power and torque. It may surprise you, so it is important to take things easy at first until you understand the changes. The car will change over a few days as the ECU sets itself, and may become more powerful. You may also notice Traction Control Systems react differently, so be aware!
Depending on the car, it may take a period of time for the ECU to settle. You may experience some hesitation at various points while the ECU learns the fueling. This is typical, and not unusual.
Results will vary from car to car. This is normal. The state of each car, and the dyno used, will always create variation in the final figures.
This FAQ was provided by Hold On Tight Automotive.