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Software Updates (Flashes) What they do and don't do *

54K views 48 replies 26 participants last post by  fnkychkn 
#1 · (Edited)
allright class. the lesson for today is software updates (flashes). i know you want them. but do you really need them? seems lately more and more people want to have "version 4.xx" displayed in their EVIC.

- a PCM or TCM flash will NOT update CCN (cluster) software version (visible through EVIC)
- all flashes are released to address a specific concern(s).
- all flashes update to the latest available software. if you get any module flashed for any reason, you get the most recent software version available (at time of download) for that module. which will include all previously released versions.
- flashes are done by part number. not software version.
- some flashes may adversely affect vehicle performance characteristics.
- flashes are not a five minute job.
- some TSB's include parts replacement along with a flash.
- not all flashes are to repair software glitches. some are to bypass mechanical deficiencies.
- not all flashes are for all vehicles. they are vehicle configuration and build date specific.
- just because you get flashed, doesn't mean your symptom will go away. it may just be masked or occur at a less noticeable time/rpm range/speed.
- all flashes that can affect vehicle emissions (usually PCM or TCM), must be accompanied by an "authorized vehicle modification" label which should be affixed as close as possible to VECI label (Vehicle Emission Control Information).
- some flashes can enable diagnostic tests performed by starscan.
- whenever a flash is performed, there is a possibility, however remote, for catastrophic failure which could render the module useless and require replacement. you need an experienced, qualified tech to do this (not a job for car wash guy).
- on CAN bus equipped vehicles, including LX, most flashes will set communication fault codes in many other modules. make sure they get erased after a flash to prevent erroneous diagnostics should the need arise.

i hope this answers some questions. if you have more questions about flashes, please post them to this thread and i will do my best to answer them.


i am a veteran flasher. since 1993, i estimate having performed over 500 flashes with only two unrecoverable failures requiring module replacement.
 
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#5 ·
Ok...so I took my RT into the dealer to have a rough idle looked at (which I actually had) and they said the flashed it based on the TSB.

There is no mention of this on the service report that I got. Is there any way to tell what software I'm running?
 
#6 ·
BlackRT said:
Ok...so I took my RT into the dealer to have a rough idle looked at (which I actually had) and they said the flashed it based on the TSB.

There is no mention of this on the service report that I got. Is there any way to tell what software I'm running?
if they flashed the PCM, there should be an "authorized modification decal" affixed near the VECI label. if not, you'll need a starscan to read PCM P/N.
 
#7 ·
Scott said:
Thanks posting the purposes, and the pros and cons of flashes...

Now...For those of use with 2005 RTs with with version 3.61 displayed in our instrument panel ... what does version 4.05 offer? Is it meaningful? Are we eligible for an upgrade?

Thanks in advance -- Scott
sorry for the late reply. version 3.61 is the latest available for 2005 models.
 
#8 ·
I hope this thread is not "Dead" ... just check the CCN ver. on my '05 "C" and it says 3.53 and is dated 2/25/2004. Car's original in-service date (purchase) was 8/4/04 and we purchased it certified pre-owned on 9/29/05. Would there be any benefit to flashing to 3.61?
 
#20 ·
Thanks yet again for the invaluable info fnky!! :not_worth

I especially like the part where you said you have been a veteran flasher since 1993!! :beerchug:

Did no one else catch that or find it funny?!

Or am I just sophmoric in my sense of humor? :wink:
 
#22 ·
wow!!!

very helpfull thread..

i will subcribe to this thread for future reference!!! i dunno alot about this flash pcm..but i think i have it!!! i have notice this label that states something about flash pcm... and the date it was done i took my charger for an error code that was giving me back in dec.06 ... I'll post a pic of the label..asap!

Intresting!!! I guess you learn something new every day...:blam:
 
#23 ·
Fnky can flash me anytime........................LOL

Is that why Hammer wears a kilt???????????????


Bob
 
#24 ·
#25 ·
I(in The Uk) Had A Recall And Supposedly A Computer Update(flash) About Indicators Malfunctioning,mine Were Ok But Took It In Anyway,after That My Handbrake Light On The Dash Came On,chimed Then Went Off,my Car(hemi)didnt Seem To Work Correctly But Since Joining This Forum Ive Pulled Fuse 11 And She Breathes Again(think)did Any Of You Guys In The U.s.a Or In The U.k Get The Same Recall?
 
#29 ·
I have a 300C SRT8 are there any updates for mine the build date is 06/06 not sure the of the day of the month. Thanks for all info in advance,

Jay
i'm sure there are a few updates available for yours. if you can post the module part numbers, i'll check for updates for you.
 
#27 ·
Questionabout TSB 18-003-05

FNKY, not sure if this is the right place to post this question so forgive me in advance. My '05 R/T Magnum has a headlight/interior light issue that fits the description of the TSB 18-003-05 reflash. Thing is, that TSB says the following;

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.5L engine (sales
code EER or EGG) that were built between June 28, 2004 (MDH 0628XX) and
January 8 XX, 2005 (MDH 0108XX).

I assume this aces me out, but I can't find a TSB that applies to my car. Should I be looking at at the headlight switch instead? Suggestions?
 
#30 ·
FNKY, not sure if this is the right place to post this question so forgive me in advance. My '05 R/T Magnum has a headlight/interior light issue that fits the description of the TSB 18-003-05 reflash. Thing is, that TSB says the following;

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.5L engine (sales
code EER or EGG) that were built between June 28, 2004 (MDH 0628XX) and
January 8 XX, 2005 (MDH 0108XX).

I assume this aces me out, but I can't find a TSB that applies to my car. Should I be looking at at the headlight switch instead? Suggestions?
due to a PWM (pulse width modulated) based lamp feeds and generator field control, chrysler said some intensity fluctuation is normal. that being said, i'd be checking grounds. also, some members have been able to minimize this fluctuation by replacing the battery with a spiral cell like Optima.
 
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