J2534 vs. Scan Tool vs. EEPROM Work - How to use them by understanding the differences

In this presentation we address three subjects: the J2534 or JBOX interface, the automotive scan tool and EEPROM work or EEPROM programming. We describe where each option is used by the automotive technician to solve a particular problem. We also cover exactly what happens with the electronics inside a vehicle module. This enhances your understanding of why care should be taken with J2534 programming. The difference between J2534 programming and scan tool work is also addressed. EEPROM work is also covered with an actual example. We use Automotive Kit#1 to clone the eeprom data from one GM Cadillac ECU to another.

[@charin2520]

You are good teacher. Thank you

[@PD82]

Invaluable information. Thank you for another great video.

[@buzzbierbaum4026]

Omg after 12years re-flashing HV PTCU and OBL modules I Just Got the clue of why I took forever and didn’t get paid the time spend ! The Manufacturer should’ve be swapping the modules Out on there time !! Great Video Thanks

[@ka7las3]

Thank You for all explanations!

[@fuzzs8970]

Thank you. I learn these info the hard way definitely your explanation makes everything simpler

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Thankyou. we're glad you found the information helpful.

[@jemsonabrigo]

Thank You John for making a youtube video for the product. At least for now I know how to use my AR32 and expand my knowledge on the automotive EEPROM programming.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Thanks for your comment. As part of our business we always work to explain and educate our customers and others regarding how things work. this allows them to get maximum utilization from the equipment.

[@sohailshah2721]

A very comprehensive explanation.

[@karimgharabli819]

thank you for your time you are the best I've had many programmer and no one support us the way you did.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Thanks. We always do our best to help.

[@gypsysharky]

Excellent video, thank you.

[@lambertomidolini8027]

Very good information.

[@rickymesa]

Thank you Sir! You're the only person I've found online with clear information on property programing ECU's. Some Scanner like the one own "Autel Im608" can do some eeprom.. but haven't tried it yet & Ford Fjds software always has paywalls for anything you try to do.

[@scorcher617]

In this example why not just remove eeprom with car Id and solder it into module you want to use and be done with it no chance of of you losing or corrupting file. I know it might no be faster than reading and writing but no programer needed , oh what do I know. Thanks for video it was informative.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Yes, you can do a chip move if you have the experience and equipment: most folks don't. You also have the issue of lifting a track or breaking a pin. I'm not opposed to that option but it also has risks. It's also a significant challenge for PLCC microcontrollers.

[@user-xg2ff8rq6j]

I will be buying as soon as I can, hopefully very soon

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Thanks. We sincerely appreciate your business.

[@jroche26]

Excellent stuff! Help see big picture. Can you do a video on why you can’t use a scanner in some newer vehicles to replace keys in all keys lost scenario?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Simple. The scanner is not programmed to perform that function. The scanner manufacturer either chose not to or does not have access to the commands necessary to send to the immobilizer.

[@michaeldvorak5556]

Thank you for a the thorough explanation. I suppose the salvaged unit might have an outdated program that needs updating via the j2534. So, you might not be limited to only cloning the EEPROM.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

The module program might not be the latest version but a salvage module will still work if you clone the eeprom. If the cloned salvage module will allow the vehicle to run you can always update the program later.

[@jimmymakwega3872]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 absolutely true

[@alfredo9173]

Great great video! So when tuners request to read the flash memory, does it read (and write afterwards) the whole sectors or part of it?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Assuming the communication program allows it, a tuner can read any data they wish. Before data can be written a sector (block) of memory must be erased even if they only want to change a small amount of data. "FLASH" refers to flash erasing. They can program individual bytes if they so choose. Data which they may not wish to change must be replaced if it was part of a sector in which data was changed.

[@user-vt1ll4tz8l]

Super Informative Video. All Techs Today should watch this ! So, we will be able to take a used ecm and change the vin and use a used ecm. ( if the ecms are the same and hardware?), Am I thinking right?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Yes, that is correct. The modules must be electronically identical (same part number) with an accessible eeprom part.

[@ahmednajim3752]

Thanks alot that was amazing explanation. I have 1 questions, what about the new modules that the flash memory, eeprom and the processor are all integrated in one chip, do you have tools that can clone this type? Thanks again for your great explanation. I was searching like those deep details.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

If the eeprom is integrated on the same silicon as the processor and program memory cloning using an external connection to the part is really not possible. This is because the communication protocol is not known nor are the connection pins. The reason that modules with external eeproms can be easily cloned is that the memory parts adhere to industry standard parts. Parts based on custom silicon do not follow any standard which makes them all different. In this case the only option to clone would be via a J2534 command supported by the part which may not be supported by the manufacturer.

[@ahmednajim3752]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 thanks a lot. God bless you

[@ralfsautomotive]

A nice Modern Programming interface would be a nice addition to an otherwise awesome System. A shell interface should not be hard to create and it would surely boost sales as it would be a more familiar PAC Interface. Anyway, good explanation.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Thanks for your suggestion. We will certainly consider it.

[@ralfsautomotive]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 I have used that Kit quite a few times now and I must say I like it alot the only downside I see is the interface.

[@eodninja6]

I want to change the gauge cluster from the Subaru crosstrek to a WRX cluster. will a J2534 programmer re-program the WRX cluster to work in the crosstrek?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Sorry, I do not know.

[@dirtfarmer4885]

Looks like the module out this Rav4 i`m working on that is causing havoc with the transmission

[@user-ky7ty3ie1x]

If ecu damaged can you virginise ecu from salvaged car and than programed into the vehicle

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Virginizing means that the ECU contains the same data as if were new. You can erase all the data in a salvage ECU eeprom then it may be considered as virgin however there is no guarantee. IThis is why cloning is a better option.

[@rae_ray8944]

Good Day Andromeda, Does all Modules on vehicles have an eeprom to change to vehicle you are working on or is it a totally different animal that you would need the locksmith accessories to complete. The Automotive kit #2 is just extra accessories parts from the kit 1 that can be bought ? Am I thinking right ? If correct, the programmer is the same in all kits, just the accessories are different ?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

All kits are based on the AR-32A programming unit. The locksmith kits are based on the automotive kits but include locksmith specific options (Honda keys and Toyota/Lexus resync block). An automotive kit can be upgraded to a locksmith kit by purchasing the locksmith kit upgrade option. All kits can be upgraded by purchasing the desired option or adapter. We never make you purchase another kit.

[@rae_ray8944]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 I made my first purchase with a locksmith #2 kit. Added one part from the automotive kit and now I have access to both. I will be purchasing more as soon as funds are available. Thank you for sharing your experience, knowledge, expertise, and time !

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Yes, you are correct. You can always upgrade a kit. We never make you purchase another kit or software.

[@Aman20048]

If our original eeprom is damaged so what data we rewrite in the salvage module

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

If the original eeprom is damaged you most likely will only be able to change the VIN in the salvage module. Any other data will be very difficult to recreate.

[@stevmanyanga4732]

Hie there.if the car specific info is the eeprom only how would it compare if i put a different module.how would it triger dtc for vin or wrong key where else is it stored

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

The VIN is stored in the other vehicle modules. When the used module is installed the programmed VIN or other data is from the previous vehicle.

[@stevmanyanga4732]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 what of the key infor. Thhanks for the great info you give us

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

The key data is in the immobilizer or sometimes in the immobilizer and ECU. If it's in both then the immobilizer and ECU must be resynced if one is changed.

[@A1Superdiagnostic]

When do I really needs to do key programming via DLC port and when the eeprom work is needed

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

You use an OBD port tool for key programming unless the vehicle does not allow it. It that case you create keys using data from the immobilizer eeprom using a transponder programming tool.

[@A1Superdiagnostic]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 like when the vehicle immobilizer is corrupt that when you do eeprom work

[@stevemazzarella7212]

Can I do that with a new module too?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

If you mean can you read the data from the eeprom in a new module and then transfer that data to a used module, absolutely yes. If you wish save the new module data to a file then virginize any used module from the file. We have many customers who do this as a business.

[@rabgeorgia6560]

I am interested in purchasing your products is there a way i can speak to someone about that?

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

Just call us The phone number is on our website (www.arlabs.com) at the bottom of the home page.

[@ghost414recon]

All new programmer show you how to do them both

[@davidhall3747]

Once Source Data is transferred to the Salvage Module, what about gaining access to the Security System, Resetting the Salvage PCM, and programming Keys to Start the Vehicle? You didn't mention these important steps to complete the solution.

[@andromedaresearchlabs7826]

When you transfer the data from the original module to the salvage module ALL information moves. You don't need to program keys because the original key data moved from the original.to the target.

[@davidhall3747]

@@andromedaresearchlabs7826 On a Ford PATS Security System it has a Rolling Security Code. I had to gain access to PATS in order to erase present keys, and program new keys. It was not Plug and Play. I used a OE level Scan Tool. The PCM was supposedly refurbished from EBAY. I was not using a EEPROM Programmer. I technically received a Salvaged PCM, and had to go through FORD security procedures in order to start the Truck.