In this guide, we will read and disable the immobilizer on a BMW F30 EDC17C50 ECU (Engine Control Unit) using the Xhorse Multi-Prog tool. This procedure is essential for tasks such as adding or making keys for BMW vehicles, as it involves extracting the ISN and modifying the ECU’s immobilizer settings.
Step-by-Step Procedure
1. Connecting the ECU
Identify the Connectors:
The ECU has two types of connectors: rectangular and circular. The circular connectors are used for transmission control modules, while the rectangular ones are for ECU communication.
Connect the Power Leads:
Attach the negative (ground) lead to pin number 2.
Connect the positive lead to the appropriate pin.
Attach Communication Wires:
Connect the remaining wires (red, blue, purple, gray, yellow, and green) to their respective pins as shown in the pinout. Ensure all connections are secure to avoid communication errors.
Secure the ECU Adapter:
Attach the ECU adapter to the back of the ECU and screw it in place.
2. Reading the ECU Data
Power On the Multi-Prog Tool:
Turn on the Multi-Prog tool and ensure the ECU is properly connected.
Read the Internal EPROM:
Select the internal EPROM option and click Read. This process takes approximately 4 minutes and 16 seconds.
Save the read file, which contains critical data such as the VIN and ISN.
Read the Internal Flash:
Next, read the internal flash, which takes longer (around 7 minutes). Save this file as well.
3. IMMO OFF with Multi Prog
Load the Saved File:
Navigate to the Tool tab- Turn Off IMMO option in the software and load the saved EPROM file.
Generate the Immobilizer-Off File:
Confirm the action to generate the modified file with the immobilizer disabled. Save IMMO OFF file.
Write the Modified File to the ECU:
Select the IMMO Off file and write it back to the ECU. The process involves sending and receiving data, accompanied by clicking sounds indicating communication.
Verify the Write Operation:
After writing, read the ECU again and compare the data with the IMMO Off file. Ensure the files are identical to confirm the immobilizer has been successfully disabled.
Final Notes
Bench Mode: The entire procedure is performed in bench mode, meaning the ECU is not installed in the vehicle.
Time Management: Reading and writing processes may take several minutes, so patience is key.
Verification: Always compare files before and after writing to confirm successful modifications.
With practice, this process becomes straightforward, enabling efficient ECU management for BMW vehicles.