BMW now checking for re-maps/tunes even if removed

[OneExtra]

This in the USA:

PSA: Latest version of ISTA (4.24.x) now auto-flags cars with “aftermarket software” (tunes) without manual intervention

I just had my 2018 G30 540i serviced to get one of the DRLs replaced due to it going out.

My SA just called me and said that when they plugged the car to scan it for faults, ISTA automatically flagged my car as having had aftermarket flash (BM3). I did re-flash and re-lock the DME with the stock tune before taking it in. He also told me that ISTA used to not do that and they’d have to dig for it and would only flag it if you were being a dick about it and trying to fight for a warranty repair when clearly the tune caused the issue. However, now it seems like ISTA is auto-flagging anytime you scan the car similar to how VAG does it with their VCDS/VAG-COM software.

https://www.reddit.com/r/BmwTech/com...now_autoflags/

[Noggie]

For Euorpe:

I was told about 6 months ago when I had my car in to re-learn my gearbox, that they did in fact check for aftermarket software.
However, if the modifications are within certain parameters, nothing happens.
If the tune is outside set parameters, a warning pops up flagging the car for void warranty and no goodwill.

I guess if you have a moderate tune from a reputable tuner, i.e Hartge, AC Schnitzer etc (630-650hp). You will not be flagged.
But if you have a 700+hp tune with catless downpipes etc, you probably will be flagged.

[OneExtra]

Originally Posted by Noggie

For Euorpe:

I was told about 6 months ago when I had my car in to re-learn my gearbox, that they did in fact check for aftermarket software.
However, if the modifications are within certain parameters, nothing happens.
If the tune is outside set parameters, a warning pops up flagging the car for void warranty and no goodwill.

I guess if you have a moderate tune from a reputable tuner, i.e Hartge, AC Schnitzer etc (630-650hp). You will not be flagged.
But if you have a 700+hp tune with catless downpipes etc, you probably will be flagged.

Set parameters could be anything other than stock though, its a thought but how can anyone now buy a used BMW outside the dealer network and be 100% sure the car has not been modified other than ask BMW to check it before its purchased

[M5Rick]

Originally Posted by OneExtra

Set parameters could be anything other than stock though, its a thought but how can anyone now buy a used BMW outside the dealer network and be 100% sure the car has not been modified other than ask BMW to check it before its purchased

So if you've had a tune in the past with the top warranty in force now, you could have the claim thrown out if the engine should terminally expire.

[Noggie]

Originally Posted by OneExtra

Set parameters could be anything other than stock though, its a thought but how can anyone now buy a used BMW outside the dealer network and be 100% sure the car has not been modified other than ask BMW to check it before its purchased

The tech I talked to (I was present as he did this outside of working hours), said that BMW will allow a certain tune as this will not damage the engine.

BMW's engine map is a "compromise", it's designed to run safe on various octane levels, and various "cleanliness" levels of fuel.
This to ensure the car can run in all different countries.

A slight tune will pretty much narrow this down to i.e premium octane fuel (93 in the US and 98 in the EU) and for premium refined fuel that is cleaner and i.e have a low water or sulfur content.

On normally aspirated engines, this would normally yield 7-25hp depending on the size of the engine. (i.e 2.0l inline 4 vs 5.0l V8).
On a turbo engine this may yield 30-60+hp.

If you start removing catalytic converters, run an Alpha-N (non MAF) tune, increased boost and messing too much with the engines ignition timing air/fuel ratio or delete sensors (Maf, O2 etc), I'm sure they will say that this is not safe and void your warranty/goodwill.

[Smurfzilla]

So the magic question is: Who offers a conservative tune like a Dinan or AC without having to pay thru the nose for the name?

[OneExtra]

Originally Posted by M5theonlyone

So if you've had a tune in the past with the top warranty in force now, you could have the claim thrown out if the engine should terminally expire.

Potentially yes.

[Simple5]

I can see the BMS Stage 1 increasing in price shortly...