Bootmod3 and locked DME?

[blkcow]

Originally Posted by tom @ eas

All flash-based tunes, it's due to a new bootloader used in 19-03-5xx or higher. You can check your ISTEP level in VCM in esys.

We can unlock DMEs in house if needed.

Shoot I have F020-19-538. Looks like I’m out of luck without bench flashing right?

[tom @ eas]

Originally Posted by bullet11291

Shoot I have F020-19-538. Looks like I’m out of luck without bench flashing right?

Missing a couple of digits there. Should be something earlier than F020-19-03-546.

If unsure, drop by and we can verify for you.

[blkcow]

Originally Posted by tom @ eas

Missing a couple of digits there. Should be something earlier than F020-19-03-546.

If unsure, drop by and we can verify for you.

Whoops - F020-19-11-538

[tom @ eas]

Originally Posted by bullet11291

Whoops - F020-19-11-538

Yep, you'll need to be unlocked before flashing, smooth sailing afterwards. PM me when ready and we can get that done for you.

[chewbakam4]

iStep of the car isn’t the best way to gauge this actually. I work with a buddy who does coding and cars can still get an iStep update after 2019 March but don’t get locked. From what we know now the ones that may get updated to relocked are 2019 models only and after. Earlier built S55 cars don’t get this. The way we check is just grab the software version the BM3 obd agent software shows and send it to their support and double check.

[GregSM3]

This turned out to be a pretty good info. Thanks everyone for your help.

[blkcow]

Originally Posted by chewbakam4

iStep of the car isn’t the best way to gauge this actually. I work with a buddy who does coding and cars can still get an iStep update after 2019 March but don’t get locked. From what we know now the ones that may get updated to relocked are 2019 models only and after. Earlier built S55 cars don’t get this. The way we check is just grab the software version the BM3 obd agent software shows and send it to their support and double check.

Is there any way to check this other than with BM3?

[tom @ eas]

Originally Posted by bullet11291

Is there any way to check this other than with BM3?

eSys will tell iStep level and if the updated bootloader is present.

[blkcow]

Originally Posted by tom @ eas

eSys will tell iStep level and if the updated bootloader is present.

I was referring to the claim that it’s not just the iStep level. If the iStep is the only way then it is what it is but if it’s not the only factor then it’d be easier for someone like me with an older model but newer software to still be able to flash without having to take it in.

[tom @ eas]

Originally Posted by bullet11291

I was referring to the claim that it’s not just the iStep level. If the iStep is the only way then it is what it is but if it’s not the only factor then it’d be easier for someone like me with an older model but newer software to still be able to flash without having to take it in.

Definitive way is to see the bootloader Patch Version in eSys, for those already familiar with eSys this is quick and easy. Bootloader versions ending in 001 does not require unlocking, 002+ will require bench unlock before flashing.

If you're never used eSys before, there are tutorials to learn how to use - you will also need an ENET cable to connect, which is also needed for BM3 flashing. If this is all a bit much, simply come down (we're nearby in Anaheim) and I can read the DME in a few minutes and let you know on the spot.

[blkcow]

Originally Posted by tom @ eas

Definitive way is to see the bootloader Patch Version in eSys, for those already familiar with eSys this is quick and easy. Bootloader versions ending in 001 does not require unlocking, 002+ will require bench unlock before flashing.

If you're never used eSys before, there are tutorials to learn how to use - you will also need an ENET cable to connect, which is also needed for BM3 flashing. If this is all a bit much, simply come down (we're nearby in Anaheim) and I can read the DME in a few minutes and let you know on the spot.

I’ve used eSys a few times and I’m still a newbie but I think I was able to figure it out. I really appreciate all of the clarification and knowledge you’ve provided.

[MR_X]

If you have BimmerCode, once you are connected to the car, hit info. It will tell you which version you have.

[evo828]

I had my car (2016 F82) updated to F020-20-07-525 (so almost newest istep) in August 2020 and had no issues with flashing MHD maps (purchased after the istep update).
I think the lock refers to the hardware (DME after 2019) being new - not the software (istep) version only.

[GhostyM]

If one runs a piggy with only TMAP sensors.. that'll be harder to track rigth?

[chewbakam4]

Originally Posted by GhostyM

If one runs a piggy with only TMAP sensors.. that'll be harder to track rigth?

Its detectable however you slice it

[jdarwin]

Just had my 2018 updated to F020-21-03-545. Warranty expires in 30 days. Considering tune if the DME is able to be flashed.

[tanzm4_]

Originally Posted by jdarwin

Just had my 2018 updated to F020-21-03-545. Warranty expires in 30 days. Considering tune if the DME is able to be flashed.

what reason did you have them update the ISTEP for? My warranty is coming to end already have BM3 but want to update to unlock full screen CarPlay/have everything up to date.

[kubax86]

Originally Posted by jdarwin

Just had my 2018 updated to F020-21-03-545. Warranty expires in 30 days. Considering tune if the DME is able to be flashed.

It's flashable but has to be unlocked on bench before.

[Dav3]

As per my understanding, some people are claiming to be able to obd flash without DME bench unlock (pinout?) With updated isteps. Is this related to the DME type (a change between pre-lci and LCI models) or based specifically on other type of internal software that doesn't always get updated together with the istep?

More than anything, what's a safe way to figure out if you're able to obd flash? Some people mentioned bricking the car through a failed flash so would be helpful to know

Dealership updated my istep to 19-11-520, which in theory means I need a bench unlock. Also, I've had local bm3 dealer tell me all updated DME's can't be unlocked even with bench flash. But based on the info on the forum, this is only the case for newer Bosch DME's on 2020+ models. But even here, the guy said the DME is the same between all s55's.(mevd 17. Not sure if he's misinformed as he mentioned a backlog of m2 cs cars waiting for an unlock but I'm pretty sure they have the new DME.

I'm hella confused, so much conflicting information, can anyone give a definite answer?

[Reprosal]

Someone had mentioned that anything stamped with the 002 bootloader requires a bench unlock.

I read on the UK forums someone was doing OBD flashes on said DME's depending when the DME was produced. Needed to know manufacture date on it.

Looked into more tuners and was told to get an inspection mirror and a flashlight to find mine to confirm.

[jdarwin]

Originally Posted by tanzm4_

what reason did you have them update the ISTEP for? My warranty is coming to end already have BM3 but want to update to unlock full screen CarPlay/have everything up to date.

IDrive was locking up. Dealer said an update would resolve. It did. DCT is better now also.

[spdrcrgtr]

I have a 2020 and I had to do a bench unlock... if I take my car to the dealer for service, will they lock it in a way I have to do another bench unlock?