What does it mean "dealer flashing" Is it possible that dealer can change a modified ecu to stock without removing it?

Hi,

that means the dealer rewrites your EEPROM (Electronically Eraseable Read Only Memory)- paralell flash. The reason Dealers might want to do this is for a software/firmware update to your ECU. They do this by simply plugging in a service tool to check the software version/ECU for errors (like when you get the oil changed).. Then they might update the code- ie write new code to your chip.

Right now it is not very common practice. But few dealers do have the tools to do it, it happened to a few of my cars. But it WILL BE THE FUTURE (BMW does it all the time)!! I have the tools to flash through the OBDII scan port and I am doing that for prototyping.. If I can do it, they will be doing it. It is much easier for the dealers to update ECUs.

Now to avoid losing the precious chip.. . Right now, you have a few options:

1) Buy a complete ECU/ tuned chip and swap it out before service, most $.
2) Buy only a socketed chip with a stock chip. And swap it out before service. Much cheaper $.
3) Don't go to dealers that might flash the car, if you chip is not removeable, ie a completely soldered unit. Cheapest $.

good luck,
Garertt
www.GIACusa.com