How to Unlock a VIN-Locked Hypertech Programmer
BY LISA WAMPLER
The first time you plug a Hypertech programmer into the OBD2 port of your car, it locks to your vehicle’s VIN (vehicle identification number.) This prevents a user from using the Hypertech programmer on multiple vehicles. If you purchased a used Hypertech programmer and the previous owner did not restore the car to the factory settings, you cannot use the Hypertech chip without resetting it. Unfortunately, if you do not have access to the original car the programmer locked to, you cannot easily reset your programmer. However, with a bit of ingenuity, it is possible.
Step 1
Plug the Hypertech programmer into your OBD2 port usually located under the driver’s dashboard. Turn the ignition key to the “on” position but don’t start your car. The programmer will recognize the VIN is wrong and show you the VIN it is locked to. Write this number down.
Step 2
Purchase a new PCM (powertrain control module) or ECM (electronic control module) for your vehicle. The type of computer depends on the brand and model of vehicle you own. It is best to purchase a new ECM or PCM designed to fit your vehicle that requires a “flash” to program.
Step 3
Locate a repair facility with the capability of “flashing” your PCM/ECM. It may require several phone calls to locate a repair facility with this capability. Avoid dealerships, as they will require VIN verification.
Step 4
Supply the repair facility with your new PCM/ECM and the VIN given to you by the programmer. The facility will flash the PCM/ECM with the necessary programming to work with your car and the VIN you provide to them.
Step 5
Install the new PCM/ECM into your car. The process for completing the installation is different for most vehicles because the manufacturer places the computer into different locations. In general, the ECM is usually located inside the engine compartment. If you are not sure where it is located, ask the repair facility where you get the new PCM/ECM flashed. Usually they can tell you where it is located.
Plug the Hypertech programmer into the OBD2 port on your car and turn the ignition key to the “on” position. When the programmer boots up, it will recognize the new PCM/ECM because it reads the correct VIN.
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How to Reset My Bully Dog
BY LISA WAMPLERBully Dog programmers allow you to make modifications to the computer settings in your car. However, once you connect the Bully Dog programmer to your car, the two devices "marry" to each other and from that point on you can only use the device with that specific car. Depending on the situation, if you need to reset your Bully dog programmer you will experience one of two different outcomes.
Step 1
Call Bully Dog at (940) 783-9915 or (866) 285-5936 Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm Mountain Standard Time and ask to speak to the technical support department.
Step 2
Advise the technical support department that you need to have your Bully Dog programmer flashed or 'unmarried" to your car. The technical support representative will make a decision on what steps to take.
Step 3
Validate to the representative that your had the computer in your car changed due to a technical issue. Likely, this will require that you fax a copy of your repair bill to Bully Dog. If this is the case, the Bully Dog technical support representative will provide you with the codes to put into your Bully Dog programmer. If you do not have a repair bill or you have a different reason for resetting the programmer, move to the next step.
Provide the representative with a $100.00 over the phone payment and he will provide you with an RMA service number and address for you to send the product back to Bully Dog for servicing. According to Bully Dog, you cannot have your device "unmarried" for free to use with a different car. You must mail you Bully Dog programmer back to Bully Dog.
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How to Flash a Car Computer
BY KEVIN KRAUSE
Flashing your car's computer, or ECU, will open up many performance gains that are often restricted at the factory for various reasons. Manufacturer's often under-run car engines to help increase their lifespan and fuel economy. If you want to add some more power under your hood, an ECU flash is a quick and inexpensive way to increase the output of your engine.
Step 1
Download and install EcuFlash from OpenECU (see Resources). This freeware program works with most cars and provides access to information stored in the car's computer, including the ability to flash a new image onto the computer. Install this program on a laptop computer if possible so you may take it to your car.
Step 2
Connect your computer to the car's OBD-II port with an OpenPort cable. Be sure to obtain the OpenPort cable designed for your make of car. This cable allows your laptop to connect via USB to your car's computer.
Step 3
Open EcuFlash and click on the folder icon at the top of the screen. Choose the new computer image you wish to flash to your car's ECU.
Step 4
Click the "Write to ECU" button in EcuFlash. When prompted, turn on your car's ignition to the accessory position (do not run the engine) and click "OK." The new ECU image will be uploaded to the computer in your car.
Turn off the car's ignition after the flash is complete and you are prompted to do so. Click "OK" to confirm.
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How to Transfer a Vehicle Plate to a New Car in Indiana
BY KRISTIE LORETTE
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles is the agency in Indiana that issues and regulates vehicle license plates. When you have a valid license plate and you want to transfer the license plate to a new car, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles has online access you can use to provide the bureau with the new vehicle registration. If you choose not to make the transfer online, you can also visit one of the local branch offices in your area to complete the license plate transfer in person.
Step 1
Open a MyBMV account. MyBMV is the online portal for you to deal with your Indiana license and license plate. You can register an account for free. Visit the MyBMV wbeiste (see Resources) and click on the “Get an Account” button. Follow the prompts on the screen to register an account, such as providing your driver’s license number, the last four digits of your social security number and your Indiana zip code.
Step 2
Log in to your MyBMV account using the username and password you set up when you registered.
Step 3
Identify the registered license plate you want to transfer to the new car. Click on the link that allows you to edit the vehicle information.
Step 4
Input the new vehicle information that you are switching the license plate to, such as the year, make and model.
Step 5
Pay the license plate transfer fee. As of January 2011, the fee for transferring an existing Indiana license plate to a new vehicle is $10.75.
Submit the information to the BMV online and switch the license plate to the new vehicle.
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How to Unlock Hypertech Power Programmer
BY LISA WAMPLER
A Hypertech power programmer is a tool that interfaces with the PCM (powertrain control module) or computer in your car. It uses the OBD2 (onboard diagnostic- second generation) port on your vehicle to change settings like how high your engine can rev, speed limits, gear ratios and spark timing (depending on your model of Hypertech programmer). When you first use your Hypertech programmer, it makes a copy of the factory settings of your PCM. When you use your programmer, it locks to the VIN (vehicle identification number). Until you restore the PCM settings in your car, the Hypertech chip can only be used on your car. Once you restore the PCM settings, you can use your Hypertech programmer on a different car.
Step 1
Plug your Hypertech programmer into the OBD2 on your car. The OBD2 port is usually located under the dash on the driver's side of the car. The plug connected to the Hypertech programmer only fits on the OBD2 port one way to prevent you from plugging it in incorrectly.
Step 2
Turn the key to the "on" position but do not start your car. All of your dash lights will turn on and you will notice your Hypertech programmer turning on too.
Select "Return the Programming to Stock" to restore your car to the factory settings. Do not turn off your car while the programmer is reprogramming your PCM. Wait until the programmer tells you to turn off the car.
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