Updating ECU Software

[XxMerlinxX]

So I went to my local dealership today to talk to them about upgrading the ecu firmware for my '08 E92, as the only service records on my car show them changing out the brake fluid not long ago.

The SA basically said that I would be taking a risk doing it, because there was a chance that something might not work later. I asked him to explain and he said that if a module had a fault in it, but my current firmware didn't see it, it may not work after the update was finished Then they'd have to replace whatever was broken. That seemed like something of a vague answer to me, but I asked him how much it would cost. $300. I said that seemed high for something that required little to no labor and would likely only take a half hour to an hour. He said, "Oh no, we did one the other day and it was about 8-9 hours." I thanked him for his time and went on my way.

Is there some way for me to do this on my own? I'm sure my car's running the original firmware from '08 and would really like to update it to the newest version.

[Tracyis300]

Try a indie shop or buy a tune?

From what i read, most of the tunes come with the new firmware so that you can install their tune.

[A Frankfurt]

Originally Posted by XxMerlinxX

So I went to my local dealership today to talk to them about upgrading the ecu firmware for my '08 E92, as the only service records on my car show them changing out the brake fluid not long ago.

The SA basically said that I would be taking a risk doing it, because there was a chance that something might not work later. I asked him to explain and he said that if a module had a fault in it, but my current firmware didn't see it, it may not work after the update was finished Then they'd have to replace whatever was broken. That seemed like something of a vague answer to me, but I asked him how much it would cost. $300. I said that seemed high for something that required little to no labor and would likely only take a half hour to an hour. He said, "Oh no, we did one the other day and it was about 8-9 hours." I thanked him for his time and went on my way.

Is there some way for me to do this on my own? I'm sure my car's running the original firmware from '08 and would really like to update it to the newest version.

The reason why updating your vehicle at the dealership may take all day is this...The factory BMW computer works online.
It can only update modules in the order that they appear in the vehicle order.
So, if you have 7 modules out of date and the estimated time is 5 hours, it'll take some time.
That and if they lose internet connection, something times out and has to restart etc...it can take 1 or 2 days.

Best bet is to find a local shop with an Autologic or a programming computer that they are experienced with and then can assist you with individual module programming.
For the ECU I would recommend checking the software level of the trans. as well if you are SMG

[BPMSport]

Originally Posted by Autohaus Frankfurt

The reason why updating your vehicle at the dealership may take all day is this...The factory BMW computer works online.
It can only update modules in the order that they appear in the vehicle order.
So, if you have 7 modules out of date and the estimated time is 5 hours, it'll take some time.
That and if they lose internet connection, something times out and has to restart etc...it can take 1 or 2 days.

Best bet is to find a local shop with an Autologic or a programming computer that they are experienced with and then can assist you with individual module programming.
For the ECU I would recommend checking the software level of the trans. as well if you are SMG

This is not the way it works...

The files being programmed are stored locally or on an internal server. They are not accessed from over the web. And modules are not programmed in the order of how they appear in the vehicle order... The vehicle order doesn't list modules, it lists vehicle options/equipment which may invoke a module or combination of fitted modules.

Modules fail sometimes during programming, it's rare, but it does happen. If it does, the dealer doesn't want to be liable for it. It's rare with the current programming systems. On the older Progman system, it would happen more frequently.

OP: my advise would be to go with an an aftermarket tune, or pay them the $ for an update. Another alternative would be an Indy shop with an autologic. If you are local to CA we can update your DME in 5 min. Engine and transmission software levels should match also.

The longest full update I've seen on an M3 is about 6 hours. Usually we do full car updates in 3-4. If there is a failure or they have to redo something, this can add some more time.

[TuningTech FS]

Merlin if you are local to Maryland we can assist which ever route you choose (update/aftermarket tune). We also have a Autologic at our facility.

[XxMerlinxX]

I'm in South Carolina, so that'd be a bit of a drive. Thanks though.

[TuningTech FS]

Originally Posted by XxMerlinxX

I'm in South Carolina, so that'd be a bit of a drive. Thanks though.

We also offer remote tuning which means you do not have to go anywhere

[oolas3]

Unless you buy a tune or expensive equipment, this isn't something you can do yourself. My car was noticeably better after the 240E update.

[anom3]

OP, if you have not had an upgrade since 2008 your going to want the latest DME software. Regardless if you get one with a tune (BPM is the one I'm with, and quite happy with it) or not, going from 50E to 240E will make a world of difference from everything from your idle to how much fuel the vehicle burns. I highly recommend it. The only question would be if you go the 300 dollar route and either get an indy shop to do your car or if you spend the 700 on a tuned version that includes 240E.

Don't think twice about it, you won't regret it.

Oh and if you have DCT... Which I do not... You'll notice even more improvements.

[dparm]

I got the same schpiel from my service advisor when I asked for them to flash 240E. He said "we aren't liable if a module fails blah blah blah". I just paid one hour of labor, but he told me it takes several hours -- though to be clear, it's not like the tech is sitting there doing work the whole time. They start the process and go on to other things.

[BimmerRookie]

any notable differences for 6MT on original 2008 software?

[cenix]

Originally Posted by BimmerRookie

any notable differences for 6MT on original 2008 software?

Some things I observed are better cold start and cold drive character, smoother driveability, and slightly improved fuel economy. It may feel a little peppier as well. You won't regret the DME update especially if you're on the original software.

[pbonsalb]

Originally Posted by BimmerRookie

any notable differences for 6MT on original 2008 software?

I went from 100E on my 08M3 6MT earlier this year to 240E. Used a shop with Autologic and paid $180. Did not do before and after dynos, but felt a little snappier to me. I have no regrets. There are reports that just updating early software to late software is worth about 10 rwhp.

I periodically clear my adaptions so I was used to running 100E on cleared adaption. Just clearing adaption can add power, and that is a factor that should be considered when evaluating the claimed or even dyno proven gains from a tune in back to back comparisons to stock. Often the reflash process will include clearing adaptions. Its a catch 22 situation since if you do not dyno on the same day and instead wait a few days or longer for adaption on the new tune to build up, there can be 10 rwhp worth of variation on the dyno.

The only thing I definitely am certain about is that I had no emissions CEL with the old tune and have regularly been getting emissions CEL since the tune. Could be a coincidence with a rear 02 giving out exactly at that time, but I am not convinced. I had my BMS DP Fix set up and it worked. But since the reflash I have not been able to dial in the BMS DP Fix.

[Helmsman]

Pnonsalb, how do you clear that adaption??

[Leonardo629]

EAS published a few dyno charts confirming power gain when upgrade from old xxE software to 2xxE.

[pbonsalb]

Originally Posted by Helmsman

Pnonsalb, how do you clear that adaption??

I use bmwlogger. Another good option is bmwhat

[BPMSport]

Clearing adaptations can also cause a loss of power. Clearing them without a valid reason to do so is a futile exercise.

[pbonsalb]

Would you say that clearing adaptions most often causes a loss of power or a gain of power on these cars?

[dparm]

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

Would you say that clearing adaptions most often causes a loss of power or a gain of power on these cars?

I don't know the innerworkings of the DME as well as Benvo, but I would say it probably relates back to long-term fuel trims that the computer is learning.

It's a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Anxious to hear Benvo's detailed info, though.

[///M Power-Belgium]

Originally Posted by dparm

I don't know the innerworkings of the DME as well as Benvo, but I would say it probably relates back to long-term fuel trims that the computer is learning.

It's a case of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Anxious to hear Benvo's detailed info, though.

Anxious ?
Well all I can say is that Mike-Benvo with his tune made my car really better... engine and DCT trans .
He is actually the man for our cars and I'm saying this from out Belgium.
And the BPM customer service and knowledge is outstanding , compaired Mike to our BMW/Dealers I'm sure they really suck .

[MPowerZ32]

Originally Posted by pbonsalb

Just clearing adaption can add power, and that is a factor that should be considered when evaluating the claimed or even dyno proven gains from a tune in back to back comparisons to stock. Often the reflash process will include clearing adaptions. Its a catch 22 situation since if you do not dyno on the same day and instead wait a few days or longer for adaption on the new tune to build up, there can be 10 rwhp worth of variation on the dyno.

I have a solution:

1. Clear adaptation on stock car. Dyno.
2. Install aftermarket tune which includes clearing adaptation. Dyno
3. Compare.