Anyone tap into a ignition signal besides the one going into the MAF sensor? I did this and it's really screwing up my ECU. I'm wondering if I could tap into it anywhere else. Thanks.

 

Why? What for?

 

I did this for the relay fix for the HIDs flashing. I got the check engine light a while ago and dealer said that my ECU is continously on and that they cannot update the codes in this state. I'm assuming it's the way the HIDs are wired that is causing this. I hope someone has some electrical knowledge to help me. I'm dumb.

 

I have a few possibilities, but I'm not able to know for sure till I do it myself which may be awhile.

I DOUBT that's the reason they can't clear the ECU fault code. The real reason is that your MAF tap is triggering the ECU fault code, therefore if they clear it, which I don't think is possible until it stops faulting, it will just come back on until the fault is FIXED


If I were you, I would DISCONNECT that wire and see if the dealer can then clear the fault history. Another option, is to find someone with a OBD scanner who can clear it for you once you FIX the fault.

 

Thanks Ice, I appreciate your reply. I think it's worth a shot. Execpt that I cleared the check engine light myself by unplugging the battery. The dealer said something like if they plug the computer in to my ECU to update the codes that it'll fry it because it's on. Also if I incorrectly give someone a jumpstart it can fry my ECU. I guess it never turns off even when I shut the engine off. I'm wondering if this HID upgrade was worth it. They even thought it was my aftermarket stereo that was causing the problem. They said get it all fixed and come back for the code update. The error it was throwing was some kind of emissions update.

 

Honestly, it sounds like a VERY BAD dealer, because what you are telling me doesn't make sense. Can you go to another dealer?

What they are telling you is 100% BS. The ONLY way the ECU will be damaged is if they are downloading new software and the battery voltage drops too low. Neither of these apply to you. First, your ECU must have power to clear the codes, so I'm not sure why they are saying that. Not sure where they are going with the "jump start" example.

Are they trying to clear dignostic codes to turn off your Check Engine Light? Or reprogram your ECU for the emissions TSB?

 

I believe they are trying to reprogram, or 'update' the emission codes. Out of 5 or so dealers this one was the only one who replaced my transmission. It's funny most dealers seem to treat you well on your first visit. Then after you praise them on the survey service goes downhill from there. They said since the ECU is continuously on my battery will slowly be drained.