Automotive Computer Reprogramming Tools

Automotive computer reprogramming tools allow you to update your computer system.a car in a car show image by Gary from Fotolia.com

Automotive reprogramming or re-flashing is the act of basically rebooting the automotive engine control modules (ECMs). ECMs are small computers built into your vehicle, and they have many standard computer features, including random access memory (RAM), a microprocessor and chips. These computers also have programmable read-only memory (PROM) type chips, which help calibrate the ECM computer. When you reprogram your vehicle, you are actually deleting the data stored on the PROM and reprogramming it with new accurate data.

CarDAQ-Plus

This tool is designed to work with any type of controller area network (CAN), which is generally found in newer model cars and trucks. This tool comes with both a universal serial bus (USB) port and an Ethernet port, which allows you to connect this tool to your computer. This tool helps you diagnose problems on CAN vehicles, and you can use this tool to re-flash the computer systems. Other features of this tool include that it comes with expansion slots, which allow you to add memory and additional functionality, and the system can be upgraded via firmware updates. As of 2010, this tool costs $1,638, and is manufactured by Drew Technologies. It is targeted to industry professionals and smaller automotive repair shops.

This re-flashing software is for Race Technology products, and this is a free product. You just need to download it from the company website. This tool is compatible with Windows XP, Vista and 7, and this re-flashing software allows you to delete stored information. Then, the software will update the system with the latest firmware updates, which include security and software updates. These updates could also correct things like emission, transmission and fuel economy problems. You must plug your device into either a computer or a laptop since this is where you will install the software.

The Universal Reprogrammer is compatible with General Motors (GM), Toyota, Ford and Chrysler vehicles, and it allows you to re-flash your system using the same software updates as the dealer does. This is a stand-alone tool, and it uses a wizard to guide you through the process. Other features of this reprogrammer include that it comes with its own scan tool, and it is compatible with Windows XP with the Service Pack 3 (SP3), Vista and 7, and it is only compatible with 32-bit systems. As of 2010, the Universal Reprogrammer costs between $1,000 and $2,395 if you want a wired connection, and it costs between $1,000 and $2,495 if you would like a wireless connection.