Hi all,

I’m looking for some advice regarding ECU flash read/write tools.

Is there any software available that allows you to read the full flash (BIN) from a GM ECU and write it back using a J2534 interface (for example, GM MDI / MDI2)?

I’m not referring to SPS calibration flashing — I’m specifically looking for something that can:

• Read full flash (not just calibration segments)

• Save the BIN file

• Write the BIN back via J2534
  
  

I understand SPS/Techline only handles signed calibrations, but I’m trying to find something more like bench/boot tools, except via J2534 passthru if possible.

Has anyone successfully done full read/write over OBD using MDI?
Or is a bench tool (KTAG, PCMFlash, etc.) the only realistic option?

Any recommendations appreciated.

Thanks!

Yes, only "bench" tools. Some ECU models can be read/written back over OBD, but rule of the thumb - it is always best to have ECU outside the vehicle, on bench table.
Always read the description for each particular ECU. Some software tools support J2534, some work only with their own dedicated hardware..

If you want a universal J2534 and bench tool - check Scanmatik 3. Now it can do the same as MDI2, and even more (D-PDU is in beta, but will be released soon).
You can buy one with a ECU bench harness, so don't need any additional wires/adapters for ECU tuning.

Hello, have you two already tried Scanmatik 3 yourself? I am also looking for a device with which I can read the software and write it to another control unit. Without PLC. Because not all control units are PLC capable. Is there software with the Scanmatik 3, so there is s a set that can read and write OBD-capable control units on the table?

8 hours ago, Opelfan said:

Hello, have you two already tried Scanmatik 3 yourself? I am also looking for a device with which I can read the software and write it to another control unit. Without PLC. Because not all control units are PLC capable. Is there software with the Scanmatik 3, so there is s a set that can read and write OBD-capable control units on the table?

What is "PLC" by your logic? Because the PLC that I know of, have nothing to do with automotive electronics...

You could have started by reading info on Scanmatik web page first - it is natively supported by PCMflash, BitBox, Combiloader, MDflasher and other software which supports working with J2534 device drivers.

Of course it works well with that software. If there are any issues - you contact support and they resolve it - be it Scanmatik support or PCMflasher support, etc.

For ACDelco ecu's you need IOT ( ioterminal.com ) with GM license . Better tool for this ecu doesn't exist :) .

It's about the fact that I don't have SPS calibration files to work with DPS. For this I am looking for a device that reads the data/software from a control unit, e.g. radio or CDC control unit and I can then write it back to another control unit. My question: has this already been tried with the Scanmatik 3 or has experience been made? I am generally concerned with all Opel control units.

@Opelfan as was already mentioned - it is not possible. First of all, control units are not designed this way - they do not behave as "USB data storage" devices.

You can directly read/write data from some chips/modules - but this requires removing it from vehicle, complete disassembly and soldering some wires to board or desoldering a chip from the board altogether.. Also, there is no universal hardware tool that can work with all control modules this way - so you will have to spend a lot of money and efforts to do it this way.

It is much easier to partner up with some of our forum members to provide you required files from SPS...

Thank you very much and I understand it now. I'm working my way into the topic and I'm still learning. I have now also found this service and will thank you.