Step 1 – Save the executable file that is located on the Download Here page above.  (Note: There is nothing on the flash stick included.  That is for saving your tuned and original files.)  Double click the exe file to install the flash client to your computer and follow the prompts until it says completed.  Once the installation is completed, you will then see a VR icon on your desktop.

Step 2 – With the cable plugged into your laptop and into your OBDII port, turn your vehicle to the on position without starting it so all the lights are on your dash.  Then double click the VR application icon to launch the program.  It will bring up some legal mumbojumbo and just hit next to proceed.  Then it brings up a intro screen and click on NEXT.  It will begin connecting and identifying your computer.  If you get a USB Device error or you get an error that says USB Device Not Recognized, follow the old driver deactivation process here – (CLICK HERE for tutorial).

Step 3 – The next screen will begin the connection process to your ECU.  It is essentially sending a signal saying, “hey lets connect”.

Step 4 – The flash client has now connected to your vehicles ECU and has identified your VIN and ECU type.  If the ECU is not automatically recognized, select your ECU from the dropdown and then proceed.  If you are not sure which ECU you have, please contact us or view the product page on our SHOP as we have listed the related ECU in the product description.

You will then press NEXT where you will have options to Read ECU Memory, Program ECU Memory, Restore ECU Memory, or Diagnostics. Click on to Read ECU Memory.  Being curious and clicking other things might get you in trouble so follow the steps listed.  You can click on. Diagnostics and see if you have an Check Engine Lights before you do the flash and clear these codes

NOTE: Some 2012 newer vehicle ECU’s you cannot read out for Volkswagen/Audi.  See Product Page!  If you have tried to do the READ ECU MEMORY and it does not work, please do the following.  You simple take a screenshot of this image below that has your software number and other information and send it to us using the upload form on the link below.  You do not need to proceed further.  We will find the matching original file in our database to make the tune from.  We will then email you back the tune and original file for records.

Step 5 – When you click Read ECU Memory, it will ask you if you want to read just the Data Area or the Full Program.  Some cars can only program the data area and some you have to read out the full file.  Please see notes on the software download page which you should do.  We always recommend reading out the FULL program as well so you have a complete restore (original) for the recovery mode.  This also saves the full ECU memory so if you have any issues during the write process, you can restore your ECU memory with this file.

Step 6 – It will now ask you where you want to save your read out on your computer. DO NOT RENAME THE FILE.  You can save this ANYWHERE you want, just remember where so you can email it to us!  After you click save, it will start the read out process.  Note:  During reading and writing, the fans may turn on for some cars (mainly Porsche).  Please make sure you have a battery charger to prevent power draw.  This process may take anywhere from 5-20 minutes depending on the vehicle because it is reading the entire file.  Testing on a E92 BMW M3 and a Porsche 997 Turbo, it averaged about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7 – When the reading process is complete, it will show a successful message and ask if you want to view the folder where the file was saved or not.  You can click yes and email the file right away or click no and email it once you close the program.

Step 8 –   If we have any questions we will email you back.  Once this is done, you can close the flash client, unplug everything from your car, and drive it as normal until we return the file to you.  We will email back your tuned file within 24-48 hours.  If a file is emailed in after 10:00am MST, it will most likely be returned the following business day.  If there is a urgency on any tune, please give us a call or put it in the notes and we will try our best to accomondate your needs.

Step 9 – When you receive the tuned file from us, save it to your computer in the same folder as your original file or somewhere you can remember where it is.  Launch the VR Tuned Flash Client by double clicking the VR icon and follow Steps 1 through 4.  This time though you will click on the button to Program ECU Memory. The file is labeled with the extension of .mod. If you are flashing back to the original file, choose the “Recovery ECU Memory” and select your saved .org file.  Make sure you have your computer plugged in and your car on a battery charger or battery tender. If you incur any issues in the writing process, don’t freak, there is always a solution!  If you need help, support, feel nervous, contact our support team.  We can do it for you via screen share (must have internet), coach you through it over the phone, or send the jet…  We will be happy to do it for you and help you anyway possible.

***Important note after you flash – After you have received your tuned file and loaded to your vehicle, if you have had your vehicle serviced and the firmware updated during this time, whether you are aware or not, DO NOT flash your car again.  Doing this will corrupt the ECU because of the mismatching firmware.  Your vehicle will not start and you may have to have your ECU repaired or replaced.  In the event this happens, we cannot be held responsible and there may be costs involved at your expense.  If the firmware was changed, do a new stock read out and we will provide you with a updated tuned file.

If you are trying to flash back to the original file, chose Recover ECU Memory and select your ORG file