PCM Flashing Near Me: When To Book A Reset In Elora, ON
Modern vehicles are veritable computers on wheels, and like your laptop or mobile phone, they sometimes require software updates. But unlike home computers, powertrain control module (PCMs) updates are best left to professionals.
But don’t worry—you don’t need to pay dealership premiums to get the job done right. If you need help flashing or reprogramming your powertrain control module (PCM), the team at Bert’s Auto & Tire are standing by to help, and the quality of our service is borne out by dozens of glowing reviews from customers in Elora, ON.
Read on to learn the basics of PCM flashing, how it can improve vehicle performance, and when to book a reset, or call (226) 314-1034 to speak directly with a PCM flashing expert near you.
What Is Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Flashing?
The powertrain control module (PCM) is your vehicle’s onboard computer, responsible for your air-to-gas ratio, ignition timing, idle speed, performance monitoring, and more.
As with any computer system, updates, resets, and professional tune-ups are occasionally required. This process is sometimes referred to as PCM flashing, PCM reflashing, PCM programming, or PCM reprogramming.
PCM flashing can resolve several different issues drivers experience, including:
- Hot or cold starting issues
- Fixing factory bugs
- Idle roughness
- Stalling
- Emissions failures
Flashing may also be necessary for drivers who replace failed PCM’s with unprogrammed service units.
Modern PCM’s are engineered with microchips that can be reprogrammed electronically without needing to be removed from your vehicle, similar to how you would complete a software update on your mobile phone or home computer.
Nevertheless, DIY PCM flashing is not recommended. Not only will you need to purchase special tools (e.g. professional-grade scanners and pass-thru devices) and spend time learning how to interpret different codes and diagnostic data, but a single misstep during the flashing process could exacerbate the issue, or even “brick” your PCM entirely.
When Do I Need To Schedule A PCM Flashing Service?
Most auto experts recommend scheduling a reflashing after installing certain aftermarket parts, including:
- Performance cams
- Larger cylinder heads
- Intake manifolds
- Fuel induction systems
Additionally, you should get in touch with our team if you experience any of the following common signs of PCM failure:
- Your ‘Check Engine’ light is on—The check engine light comes on for all kinds of reasons, PCM problems included. But even if it does not indicate a problem with your PCM, it does mean your vehicle requires service, and our team can help you get to the bottom of it.
- Your car is struggling to start or stalls—Start-up issues may be related to several different PCM problems, including improper fuel-to-air ratios, incorrect engine timing, or shorts in the wiring harness.
- Your fuel mileage plummets—Your PCM helps your transmission control module (TCM) decide when to shift gears, and if it’s not working properly, you’ll see a noticeable drop off in fuel economy. That said, not all fuel economy drops are related to PCM errors, but our team can help you get to the root of the problem and resolve any issues without delay.
- You failed your emissions test—If your fuel-to-air ratio is off, your engine will emit significantly more particles and carbon monoxide than usual, which could cause you to fail your emissions test.
- Your vehicle is shifting erratically—Irregular gear shifting is one of the most serious signs of PCM problems. Failing to address these issues right away could compromise road safety and lead to costly transmission damage.
- Your code reader indicates PCM problems—If you have a code reader, watch out for PCM trouble codes, such as the U0100 code, P0603 code, P0113 code, and P0606 code. Your code reader’s manual can tell you more about these specific codes, or you can save time by contacting a PCM flashing specialist right away.
Get A Free Quote On PCM Flashing: Call Bert’s Auto & Tire
To consult with our experienced PCM flashing team and get a free quote on a “carputer” software update, you can:
- Call (226) 314-1034
- Drop by our auto shop at 23 Hamilton Street in Elora, ON
- Fill out our online contact form