Since the introduction of OBD II and leading up to modern Hybrids and EVs, hardware and software technologies in cars have been advancing at an exponential rate. Updating AUTEL MAXISYS ULTRA software may be the only way to fix the following issues:
* Drivability
* Fuel Efficiency
* Power Loss
* Fault Codes
* Durability of Mechanical Parts
The Programming and Coding function is used to re-flash the vehicle control modules, which allows you to update the computer software of the vehicle to the latest version, as well as to reprogram adaptive data of certain components after making repairs or replacements.
NOTE
The programming function applies only when the vehicle is connected with a VCMI device, which serves as a PassThru interface to establish communication with and transfer data to the vehicle’s ECU.
Available programming or coding operations vary by test vehicle. Only the available operations display in the tablet menu.
There are two general types of programming operations:
A. Coding – also known as Teach-in Program, or Component Adaptation, is used to reprogram adaptive data for vehicle control modules after repairs or replacements of vehicle parts.
B. Reprogramming – downloads the latest version of software from the online server database through Internet access (this procedure is done automatically when the tablet is connected to the Internet, so there is no need to check for software updates yourself), and reprograms the newest version into the vehicle’s ECU.
NOTE:
Ensure that the tablet is connected to a stable internet access before applying the ECU programming function, so that the tablet is able to obtain access to the vehicle manufacturer’s server for update service.
Selecting the Programming or Coding function opens a menu of operation options that varies by vehicle make and model. Selecting a menu option either displays a programming interface or opens another menu of additional choices. Follow all screen instructions while performing the programming or coding operations. How and what information is presented on the screen vary by the type of operation being performed.
1. Coding
The main section of the Coding screen displays a list of vehicle components and the coding information that mainly consists of two parts:
A. All available systems for coding are displayed on the left side, and the coding data or value on the right side.
B. The bottom of the main section displays the functional buttons that enable you to manipulate the operation.
Check the vehicle condition and the coding information carefully. Use the functional button to edit Codes for the corresponding components. Tap Send when you finish editing all items. When the operation is completed, an execution status message such as Completed, Finished or Successful, may display
Tap the ESC button to exit the function.
2. Reprogramming
Before reprogramming begins
* It is mandatory that Ultra tablet is connected to stable Wi-Fi network.
* Tablet must be connected to VCMI by USB.
The main section of the reprogramming interface offers information of the hardware, the current software version and the newest software versions to be programmed into the control units.
A series of on-screen operational instructions will display to guide you through the programming procedure.
Carefully read the on-screen information and follow the instruction to execute the programming procedure.
* Tablet battery must be fully charged during module programming. Connect tablet to charger if needed.
* Attach battery maintainer to vehicle battery to ensure a steady voltage is maintained throughout programming. Voltage requirements differ by vehicle manufacturer. Consult vehicle manufacturer recommendations prior to programming a module.
* Do not quit the application during a module reprogramming as the process may fail and may also result in permanent damage to the module.
Typical reprogramming operations require you to input and validate VIN number first. Tap the input box and enter the correct number. The programming interface then displays.
3. Re-flash Errors
IMPORATANT
When reprogramming onboard, always make sure the vehicle battery is fully charged and in good working condition. During reprogramming, the operation may fail if voltage falls below the proper operation voltage. Sometimes a failed operation can be recovered, but the failed reprogramming can also ruin the control module. We recommend connecting an external battery maintainer to the vehicle to ensure a steady voltage is maintained throughout programming. The required voltage differs by vehicle manufacturer. Consult vehicle manufacturer for correct voltage to be maintained.
Occasionally a flash update procedure may not complete properly. Common causes of flash errors include poor cable connections between the tablet, VCMI, and vehicle, the vehicle ignition being switched off before the flash procedure is complete, or low vehicle battery voltage.
If the process quits, recheck all the cable connections to assure good communications and initialize the flash procedure. The programming procedure will automatically repeat if the previous operation does not succeed.
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