Bfb1963

I have a 2013 A8 L 4.0 and want to tune it with an ECU Flash. Who has unflashed their tune and then gone to the Dealer for Service?


Any ECU better than another for unflashing?


Any known workarounds?










Keywords: ECU Flash Tune Reflash Retune Warranty Void Chip Upgrade Program Reprogram Map Remap Write Rewrite

Jack88

The marker to the ECU is permanent. Putting the car back to stock parameters doesn't erase it. I have heard of no workarounds at all.

Asiparks

as per Jack's reply and from TSB 011491 9/10/2014:


Audi's current dealership level diagnostic equipment allows for automatic detection of unauthorized ECM tuning on many current vehicle models. This detection runs automatically in the background during the normal diagnostic process. If unauthorized engine tuning is detected, a "TD1" code is automatically populated within the Warranty Key section of Elsa (Figure 1). This warranty code cannot be manually added or removed. Not every tuned vehicle will be detected automatically; however, selected vehicles can be checked for unauthorized ECM software if an ECM software specified vs. actual comparison is performed.
Tip:
For additional information on the TD1 key, contact AoA Warranty. See Audi Warranty Online (Warranty Companion or Resource Center) or contact Audi Warranty for process details.
Note :No powertrain tuning is supported, authorized, or warrantied by Audi of America.
Examples of powertrain tuning:
^ ECM programming modification ("chipping", "flashing", or "piggy back" devices)
^ Intake system modifications ("cold air" intake, charge air cooler modifications)
^ Aftermarket turbocharger or supercharger components (turbo, supercharger, or supercharger drive pulley)
^ Aftermarket clutch/flywheel components
^ Shifter modifications ("short shifter")
When powertrain tuning is suspected:
A warranty key must be entered manually when a vehicle is fitted with aftermarket equipment. See Audi Warranty Online (Warranty Companion or Resource Center) or contact Audi Warranty for process details.
Technicians must also disclose vehicle tuning when opening a TAC ticket on a vehicle and should be prepared to explain exactly what type of tuning is found.
An ECM software specified vs. actual comparison can be used to test for chip tuning on some modern Audi engines via the TD1 warranty key flag.

Bfb1963

That's an awesome response. Lots of very useful info. Thanks

Has anyone actually gone to the dealer unflashed? What happened?

IndyS8

Reading that makes it sound like you need to be willing to get TD1 flagged if running a tune. In which case, kiss warranty coverage goodbye

snagitseven

Well, probably yes and possibly no. Per the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer would have to show that any modification done was the cause of an issue to decline warranty coverage. The mod parts themselves and any other component or performance issue affected as a result of the mod would not be covered. For example, having a TD1 applied for an ECU mod, the manufacturer could not decline warranty coverage on say, a malfunctioning door lock unless they could tie that problem to the ECU. A TD1 though, does open up a basket of snakes when it comes to proving cause of defects and the manf's. inclination to decline coverages.

Bfb1963

I have no doubt it will be identifiable. But just because it flags, does the dealership act on it? Does it happen so rarely on a warranteed car that it is irrelevant to them. The dealership wants to do the repair work and have Audi pay them. If the tune history is not part of the problem, do they disregard it? Or do they have to send the flagged report to Audi prior to approval for service?

So, does anyone have actual experience with this, good or bad?

Jack88

The point is that it invalidates your powertrain warranty. It won't give you problems if, say, your mmi failed. It will make them decline coverage if your transmission fails.

DavidA

one dealer in N NJ claims to 'ignore' APR flash/tuning; got this from APR shop that does it for them under the aftermarket "Motors Sports" as part of the dealership. Also got it from APR at Waterfest last weekend. Not sure about the whole idea of "look-the-other-way" sincee APR is not inexpensive... There is an added feature to control and monitor engine management with an iPAD that allows the mods to be hidden when taken to Audi.

snagitseven

A data point:

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...tuned-2886604/