Air Force RX8

So I went to get the "N" PCM falsh today, but it never happened. In the TSB it states:
"3. Using WDS B35.5 or later software, reprogram the PCM to the latest calibration (refer to “Calibration Information” table) by following the “Module Reprogramming” procedure."

As it turns out service departments just received WDS B36 software for their computers a very short time ago. A new message to service departments came out yesterday or today stating that they are not to program any vehicles using the B36 software or previous versions due to "code errors" found with the product. Instead they are to wait for the new B36.1 Blue disk software to arrive before proceding with any PCM flashes.

While she was there they were supposed to do the drivers side seat back and seatbelt replacement, however the part that arrived in the properly marked left side seatback box was instead a right side seatback. They were also to perform the dipstick tube install and after aguing with me about how the TSB reads they did not order the thinner dipstick and go figure I the customer was right and the old dipstick does not fit with the tube installed. I do understand his position that he had to proceed as the TSB indicates, until proven otherwise or they do not get reimbursed for the labor for the warranty repair. Now to wait for the new parts and software to arrive...

Go48

Sounds like a bad day all around. Think positive, though. Think what would have happened if they had gone ahead and reprogrammed the PCM.

Air Force RX8

Yeah, I don' t know what would have happened others have had the flash performed on the previous version of software, so not sure why it would affect the data loaded to my PCM... Oh well.

snap-on

Thats not exactly how it is done...Every time the "major" i.e 35.xx disc hits the dealership the SOP is to install the disc (along with two calibration disc's this time)

THEN.....take the WDS to the next "minor" i.e. XX.1

This gives the National hot line guys time to go through the disc and see if any of the files are corrupted. Remember the disc has files for the entire Ford family (Ford/Lincoln/Mazda/Volvo/Rover etc)

The letter that comes with the disc ALWAYS says

" Do not install the "major" until the next "minor" is ready to install.."

Air Force RX8

OK, so why was this a reason not to flash my PCM today? The service manager made it sound like it was a major issue.

snap-on

One of two.

The WDS was lower than 35.5 and ( the highest 35 version was 35.8 )

They already put in the 36.0 which is really not very smart as it may be a few days until the next minor version hits the web site.

I usually do the WDS majors on Sunday as it takes 4-5 hours to load everything and with only one machine it is tough to go half a day without it.

Air Force RX8

OK, I understand the version stuff, but not why it stated to halt flashing PCMs with all previous versions... Did you not get this "memo" that was supposedly sent yesterday or today? If Rich is BS'ing me I'll have a few words with the GM. He was a salesman the last time I went to the dealership and now he is the service manager which gives me no warm fuzzies at all!

markd

Air Force, I'm assuming you are trying to get the new flash because you are getting a lot of CEL's? If it's supposed to improve performance any, like the M flash was supposed to, I'd like to know more about it...

snap-on

I have the same memo I get everytime a major comes out.

There is no mention of bugs or corrupted files. Maybe he can give you a copy of his?

If he has just started in service he might not understand the procedure.

Frank Patrick

Had the N- Flash, yestrday- two things I noticed right away

1) More power- especialy in the 4/5 shift range

2) Starts quicker- I'm not sure how to decribe -but seems to kick in a bit quicker


*edit: we are using the term FLASH instead of scan, just so people dont get confused -abbid*

Thetitanium8

Did they contact you to have it done or you went in on your own?

Frank Patrick

No I was not contacted in any way by Mazda-- I had discovered it on this web site-- While I was in for service, at Star Mazda, I asked if they would do it, the service Manager said he would have run the VIN, and let me know--He did, and they did it. Yes it DOES make a difference.

Thetitanium8

I was at mazda about 1 week ago and they didnt say anything to me about it. Guess its because I didnt ask. Thanks for Info

snizzle

so this is the newest flash? correct?

Jackallll

Yes

Frank Patrick

You may already have this scan doen -is what I was told be service, depending on your vin, mine did not.

kmg1186

does anyone know the vin numbers in need of the n flash?

LucasET

Check the TSBs posted on Finishline Performance's website (aka Rosenthal Mazda). They are a sponsor of this site. The VINs are listed on the TSB. Basically, if you bought your car before Christmas, you'll want to check. I asked my dealer when I got my car serviced last, but they said there was no update. I'm kinda pissed now because I found out the next day that there was. Of course, "my guy" wasn't there, so I got hosed by some punkass.

project

This EXACT same thing happened to me. I'm waiting to hear back from the dealer so I can get the job finished.

Have any of you had mpg issues since the flash? Before I got a consistent 17.5-18 mpg, now I'm getting anywhere between 13 and 15. The exhaust at idle smells very strongly of gasoline as well.