Engine Controls - MIL ON/DTC P0420/P0300-P0304
01 08 10March 6, 2008
2016958
Affected Models
Condition
Update Programming, MIL ON or Flashing, DTC P0420 Stored in ECM
Tip:
Diagnostic trouble codes stored may also include P0300 - P0304 upon cold start.
ECM requires update to enhance the system strategies shown above.
NOTE:
DO NOT diagnose or replace components due to misfire faults before performing the update function as explained in this bulletin.
DO NOT diagnose, repair or replace Catalyst system components before performing the update function as explained in this bulletin.
Technical Background
Improved ECM software resolves concerns related to:
- Adjustment to OBD catalytic converter diagnostic parameter strategy.
- Adjustment to cold start adaptation.
Production Solution
Software concern was identified after production was concluded.
Service
Update Programming Procedure:
Note:
Non-observance of the following points may lead to ECM failure! VAS 5051 or VAS 5052 must always be connected to the approved power supply at the approved voltages. Under no circumstances should the power supply be interrupted or the diagnostic connector unplugged during the update programming procedure.
Ensure the following vehicle requirements are met:
^ Connect vehicle to a powered Volkswagen approved Midtronics/InCharge 940 (INC-940) tester/charger
^ Battery MUST have minimum no-load charge of 12.5V
^ Switch OFF the radio and all other accessories, and when necessary, switch running lights OFF
^ Switch OFF any appliances with high electromagnetic radiation (i.e. mobile phones)
Engine Control Module Update - Programming (Flashing) using CD
Tip:
When performing the update programming procedure, ALL DTCs for all systems are erased. DTCs linked to Guided Fault Finding function tests will be lost. Therefore, always address stored DTCs for Customer concerns unrelated to the update programming procedure first.
The following "Update - Programming" (flashing) process may overwrite any "TUNED" ECM/TCM programming.
A "TUNED" ECM/TCM is described as any ECM/TCM altered so as to perform outside the normal parameters and specifications approved by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
If you encounter a vehicle with a "Tuned" ECM/TCM, prior to performing the "Update - Programming" (flashing) procedure:
^ Your Dealership should place the vehicle owner on notice in writing, that their ECM/TCM was found to have been tuned, and that any damage caused by the tuning of the ECM/TCM (including any adverse emissions consequences) will not be covered by Volkswagen of America, Inc. warranties.
^ For any repair requested by the owner under warranty or outside warranty that requires update programming, which will automatically wipe out the "Tuning" program, your Dealership should advise the owner of the above and get Owner's written consent (see Control Module Tuning form shown above) to the update programming procedure.
Tip:
Before update programming, delete the fault memory in the ECM. Update programming is not possible when an EEPROM fault is active.
Reprogram ECM with CD - Part number W42200518TSWU.
^ Insert the programming CD into the VAS 5051 / 5052, and access the ECM.
Tip:
If the update programming button does not appear, the latest version has already been installed to the level below.
Programming starts by pressing the "Update Programming" button and following the on screen prompts.
WARNING:
The electric cooling fans may be activated during the ECM updating procedure.
Note:
Once update programming begins, on NO occasion should the Cancel button be selected.
^ Press the "Update Programming" button.
Once update programming is complete:
^ Follow the on screen prompts.
^ Reset readiness code.
Tip:
For vehicle with cold start misfire DTCs P0300-P0304, also add approved fuel additive to fuel tank before returning vehicle to customer. See technical bulletin 2014815.
If vehicle returns after software update and consumption of entire fuel tank with fuel additive with cold start misfire DTCs P0300-P0304, select the "Technical Assistance" tab in ElsaWeb and follow the instructions to obtain a 6 digit access code.
Warranty
Required Parts and Tools
No Special Parts Required.
Tip:
Additional copies of the "Update - Programming" CD (Literature Number W42200518TSWU) may be ordered from the Volkswagen Technical Literature Ordering Center from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.
Additional Information
All part and service references provided in this Technical Bulletin are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and Repair Manuals for the latest information.