COMPUTER MODULE PROGRAMMING
Cars and trucks have evolved dramatically over the years, from nuts and bolts to sensors and sophisticated computer systems. Computer programs are responsible for the advancements in safety, efficiency, and performance that we see in vehicles manufactured since 2000. This includes airbag controls, fuel injection system, brakes, and much more.
Most auto shops have computer diagnostic equipment to help isolate the problem. When a computer module must be reprogrammed, this can only be done with software that comes from the OEM manufacturer.
To reprogram modules an auto shop must have:
- Passed a verification process
- Have their own VCI (vehicle communication interface)
The VCI system is an expensive investment, and not all auto repair shops have them. McElroy Auto Repair has passed all verification processes and has made the investment in this system to allow us the ability to diagnose and reprogram problems related to computer systems. This means we can repair your car faster so you can get back on the road.
Why should someone care about going to a repair shop that knows how to do computer programming?
There are many components on a modern vehicle that require computer software to operate properly.
This requirement limits the repairs to dealerships and programming software capable repair shops. Simply put, there are repair jobs that cannot be done without a software programming capability.
For example, 20 years ago anyone willing could install a new transmission in their garage. Now it would require thousands of dollars for that same individual to buy the equipment to do the programming for that transmission.
What percentage of cars/trucks rely on computers?
All vehicles made after the mid-1970s started using computers to control vehicle operations.
As time has gone on vehicles have been receiving more and more computer modules.
It is common now for modern cars to have an excess of 20 or more modules that all require programming to work. (Most European cars can have 50-60 programmable modules.)
What does a computer control in a car?
Almost every part of a car uses computers ranging from headlights, tire sensors, engines, transmissions.
Most common issues associated with computer problems.
If a computer module fails, the component it controls will not function. Example the headlights will quit, the radio will stop working, the car engine will not run, etc.
What causes a computer module to fail?
Generally, there will be 3 kinds of electrical problems associated with computer failures:
- Corrupt software files.
- Physically broken electrical circuits (wires, pins).
- A bad computer module.
How do you help solve these problems?
The first thing we will do is isolate the problem down to the computer module. This can be very time consuming and difficult but anyone willing could do this. The difference comes when you must replace a computer module itself because it needs to be programmed with software that only comes from the OEM manufacturer. We go through a verification process that will allow us access to the OEM website. We use a special vehicle communication interface called VCI. It is very expensive, and it links to individual auto manufacturers technical websites. We download the special software files from manufacturers like GM or Ford directly from their websites. We then program that software into a customer’s car.