OBDii Flash Tuning Interface Instructions

The Read Process

When reading your vehicle, calibration data is transferred from the control modules to the VCM Editor. The process will automatically detect all relevant control modules and read them in sequence. Use the progress bar and status messages to track the read operation.

IMPORTANT: Ensure your vehicle’s battery is fully charged before starting. It is recommended to keep the battery connected to a charger during the process to prevent interruptions.

If communication is lost during the read, VCM Editor will automatically reset the module and prompt you to resolve the issue before retrying.

Step-by-Step Read Procedure

1. Connect your HP Tuners interface device to a laptop with VCM Suite installed. Plug the device into the vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic port.

2. Close VCM Scanner if it is open.

3. Open the VCM Editor software.

4. If any tune file is open, click "File > Close" to prevent file confusion.

5. Turn the vehicle ignition to the ON (or RUN) position without starting the engine.

6. Ensure all doors are closed, and all accessories (lights, radio, etc.) are turned off.

   CAUTION: Do not use any vehicle accessories, including door locks, during the read process.

7. In VCM Editor, go to the "Flash" menu and select "Read Vehicle (Ctrl+R)". You can also click the "Read Vehicle" icon.

   

8. Wait 10-15 seconds for the Vehicle Reader window to appear and click "Read" to begin the process.

   

9. Allow VCM Editor to read all control modules. The instrument panel may display error messages, and accessories may behave unexpectedly—this is normal.

   NOTE: Vehicles with multiple VCMs may have a 15-second pause between each module read.

10. Once the process completes, turn off the ignition and disconnect the interface device.

11. The read file will automatically open in VCM Editor.

12. SAVE AND BACKUP: If this is your first time reading the stock controller, save and back up the file before making any modifications. Use the naming format: [ORDER NUMBER]-Stock-[VIN].hpt.

    Pro Tip: Save the file in an easily accessible location, like your desktop.

Additional Notes & Considerations

• Always use a battery charger capable of maintaining at least 10 AMPs to prevent interruptions.

• Close any previously opened files when starting the software to avoid confusion. Use the "File > Close" option or the folder icon.

• If your VIN does not register correctly, try changing it using VCM Scanner. Go to "Vehicle > Controls and Special Functions > System > Change VIN". If issues persist, clear DTCs under "Vehicle > Diagnostics > Clear DTCs".

• Ensure you have the correct .NET version installed to avoid software errors. Update from the HP Tuners Downloads page if necessary.

• Connect the OBDii device to your computer before connecting it to the vehicle.

• Expect a processing time of 3-10 business days from the time we receive your base files to when you receive the modified tune.

• If emissions were unplugged before tuning, you may see a "Service Emissions" message on the dash. Ensure the DEF tank is at least 1/4 full to avoid a "Low DEF" light after tuning.

• Tuning Price Policy: Revisions due to incorrect file submissions are not covered. Ensure you follow these instructions carefully. Contact us before sending files if you encounter any issues.

The Write Process

Writing a tune to your vehicle updates the calibration data in your control modules using VCM Editor. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth and successful process.

IMPORTANT: Ensure your vehicle is in a safe, secure location before proceeding, such as your garage or another low-traffic area.

YOU WILL NEED INTERNET ACCESS FOR THE ENTIRE PROCESS.

Step 1 - Battery & Device Setup

Before starting, check and prepare the following:

1. Ensure the vehicle has a fully charged battery. We recommend connecting it to a battery charger to prevent power loss.

2. Make sure your laptop is fully charged or connected to a reliable power source.

3. Connect your device to your laptop using the supplied USB cable, then connect it to the vehicle's OBD-II port.

4. Turn the ignition to the ON (RUN) position without starting the engine. All dash lights should illuminate.

FOR PUSH-TO-START VEHICLES: Press the start button twice without pressing the brake. The dash will light up without starting the engine.

Step 2 - Load the Tune File

1. Download and save the NEW TUNE file sent by Tuner Depot's tuning engineers to an accessible location on your laptop (e.g., Desktop).

2. Open the latest version of VCM Editor.

BEST PRACTICE: Ensure no previous files are open by clicking “File” > “Close”.

3. Resync your interface by going to the HELP tab and selecting "RESYNC INTERFACE". Once complete, click "Close."

4. Select "File" > "Open" and navigate to the new tune file you saved earlier.

Make sure you select the NEW TUNE file and not the stock file.

Step 3 - Write the Tune to the Vehicle

1. Without disconnecting any cables, go to the "Flash" menu in VCM Editor and select "WRITE VEHICLE (Ctrl+W)".

You can also click on the "Write Vehicle" icon.

2. Ensure the dropdown option is set to "Write Entire".

3. Click "Write" and wait for VCM Editor to complete the process. The status bar will display "Write complete!"

4. Turn off the ignition and shut down the software.

5. Disconnect the device by unplugging it from the OBD-II port and then from your laptop.

6. Wait three seconds before turning the ignition back on.

7. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes without moving the vehicle. Ensure no warning lights or errors appear on the dashboard.

In Case of Errors

If an error occurs or the write does not complete successfully, follow these steps:

1. Close the file, shut down everything, and repeat the process from the beginning. It may take multiple attempts to fully write the tune.

2. If errors persist, generate and save an info log to send to support:

1. With the new tune file open, click the VCM Suite Info button or the “Information Icon” in the toolbar.

2. In the info dialog box, click the blue circle "i" icon to poll the software and vehicle for data.

3. When the info log completes, click the "Save" icon. Save the file as [ORDER NUMBER]-INFOLOG-[VIN].

Pro Tip: Save the file in an accessible place, like your Desktop.

4. Email the saved info log to OBDii@blackbandit.com. Include your order number and device serial number.

Additional Notes & Considerations

• Ensure the battery charger can provide a steady 10 AMPs or more.

• Always close any previously opened files when launching VCM Editor to prevent confusion.

• If the VIN does not register properly, use VCM Scanner to update it. Go to "Vehicle > Controls and Special Functions > Change VIN" and ensure it is entered in ALL CAPS.

• If the software gives errors, check your .NET version. Update it from the HP Tuners Downloads page.

• Connect the interface device to your laptop before connecting it to the vehicle.

• Allow 3-10 business days for Tuner Depot to process and send your modified tune file.

• If emissions systems were unplugged, you may see a "Service Emissions" message. Ensure the DEF tank is at least 1/4 full to avoid a "Low DEF" warning.

• Our tuning price does not cover revisions due to incorrect file submissions. Follow these instructions carefully and contact us if you encounter issues.