How To Stop Computer Reflash

[ROADWARRIOR]

I have to take my truck in to the shop for some transmission work and want to make sure that my truck is immune to the computer reflash cronies. I remember reading in an earlier post about how some of you guys have put a pad lock on the connector to prevent them from hooking up their scan tool. I did a search and came up empty. If any of you guys could help me out I would appreciate it.



Thanks, Dan

 

[nps]

Dan,



The suggestion has been to put a long-shank lock over the OBD scan connector (think it should be under the dash near the steering column - I can't look on my truck right now) . A lock like those used for bicycles with at least a 3" shank.



Carefully thread the shank through the wire bundle behind the plug, and lock it over the connector. This prevents them from hooking up the reflasher unless you unlock the connector.



Another suggestion was to make your own 'void' sticker. Won't stop them but at least lets you know that they have been in there. Also think if they do a reflash, they are supposed to put a new EPA sticker on the driver's door jamb (at least the TSB procedures indicate so). This will let you know if a reflash has ever been done and when.



Hope this helps.



Neil

 

[Amianthus]

That's what I was gonna say. Put a padlock or other lock over the connecter that is just big enough that it can go on but cannot be pushed aside. They would have to cut the wiring to get it off and they aren't gonna do that. Or, you can borrow an ECM and take yours off. Then swap them out when it is done. Hope we helped.

 

[Steve St.Laurent]

I took my data link connector out of the tab in the dash and tuck it up under the dash (I used that that to mount my fuel pressure guage). If I ever had to take it in I'd simply put a padlock on the connector (with the hoop through the middle of the wire bundle) - they wouldn't be able to get a connector on it.

 

[troutlips]

Follow the harness up under the dash about a foot and simply cut the wires. Put shrink tubing over the cut wires and shrink it down. If you ever do need a new program they can be soldered together. Just a a bombing thought. They would probably void your warranty out of kindness!!