Progressive tuning by Holden dealerships??

[VYBerlinaV8]

All,

When I picked up the Berlina from Holden a couple of days ago (for 40k service), I noticed that it seemed to go harder than before. I rang my service manager and he told me that they had updated some software, and that was the reason why it felt faster. Apparently it is standard practice to update software during the life of the vehicle, as newer versions become available.

Has anyone else heard of this? What does it do to a tune (that you've just spent $$ for)? Is there a possibility that the new air cleaner reducing back pressure and hence providing a really noticeable power increase?

[SCOTTR8]

maybe you recieved a pcm reset with your 40k service at no charge :lol: yes i have heard of dealers upgrading software, as to the air cleaner years ago i read an article where they tested a number on air cleaners on a dyno and there was very little difference even with an old cleaner, go figure.

[bluess57]

Was it Gerald Slaven @ Belconnen?
Before my tune & cam mods, I had O2 troubles and put it into Slaven. They observed the 'zorst (pacemakers) and updated the pcm software. The mech mumbled something about the program.
Anyway when tuned mafless the before dyno run was good and Delco mentioned it was good with a fair bit of timing in it.

But if you have paid for an aftermarket tune, you need to check it has not been overwritten.

[RARASV8]

40 k service on mine i noticed it felt like it went alot harder, as now it's starting to wheelspin as the revs get upto around 4000. so yeah i think something is happening. :confused:

[Black_Utester]

Just had the 40K service not that long ago. Haven't had the same feeling as mentioned in the previous responses. Might need to test it, when the situation arises.

[ELLE EX ATE]

Hi Guys,
It is a changing beast.
Auto:
Just before my 10k service auto changed gears 6-6200rpm in D and normal shift. After though now will change at approx 5800rpm in D normal or PWR.
Engine:
sometimes it feels like handbrake still on, and needs to clean it's throat esp below 4000rpm. Other times free as an eagle like it should be. This is both before and after 10k service, and not dependant on the air temperature.
May invest in efilive software scantool to see what's going on, anyone have info on normal shift points for auto?

[OzJavelin]

Was it Gerald Slaven @ Belconnen?
Before my tune & cam mods, I had O2 troubles and put it into Slaven. They observed the 'zorst (pacemakers) and updated the pcm software. The mech mumbled something about the program.
Anyway when tuned mafless the before dyno run was good and Delco mentioned it was good with a fair bit of timing in it.

But if you have paid for an aftermarket tune, you need to check it has not been overwritten.

Good point about overwriting software. Probably like a lot of guys here I work in IT; previously worked as engineer with IBM Wangaratta building RS/6000 Unix servers. I know little about computer hardware in automobiles, but it's standard practice for techs to flash-update firmware, etc on computers during a "service" .. there are always bugs and enhancements. If a third-party has been playing with the original hardware in your car and Holden come along and did an "update" you might loose your $1500 tuneup?

Anyone confirm/deny this?

[ I REALLY need to get more familiar with modern cars .. :( ]

Rod.

[VYBerlinaV8]

It wasn't Gerald Slaven in Belconnen, rather Commonwealth Motors in Philip. I've always had good service from them, so I keep going back.

I'm pleased with the performance increase, too!

Hey just a thought - how much does a 'blank' pcm unit cost? It should be possible to have your custom tune put onto a seperate pcm, which you then swap out when going in for service. They can flash whatever they like onto it, cos you'd just swap your tune back in when you get the car back.

[bluess57]

It is possible for your tuner to 'lock' the pcm so Holden cannot overwrite the tune.

I've seen pcm's for $250

[my_Berlina]

All,

When I picked up the Berlina from Holden a couple of days ago (for 40k service), I noticed that it seemed to go harder than before. I rang my service manager and he told me that they had updated some software, and that was the reason why it felt faster. Apparently it is standard practice to update software during the life of the vehicle, as newer versions become available.

Has anyone else heard of this? What does it do to a tune (that you've just spent $$ for)? Is there a possibility that the new air cleaner reducing back pressure and hence providing a really noticeable power increase?


Your sure it isn't just our recent cold snap, I know my car is enjoying it.

Dave !

[vyssls1]

ba falcons had that set in them from factory when they hit 40k they unleash a bit more power, they called the first 40k as a run in time.

[team illucid]

Commonwealth Motors in Philip. I've always had good service from them, so I keep going back..

You must be the only one ... bunch of tossers in there, wouldnt let them touch any car of mine ever !!

[vyssls1]

It wasn't Gerald Slaven in Belconnen, rather Commonwealth Motors in Philip. I've always had good service from them, so I keep going back.

I'm pleased with the performance increase, too!

Hey just a thought - how much does a 'blank' pcm unit cost? It should be possible to have your custom tune put onto a seperate pcm, which you then swap out when going in for service. They can flash whatever they like onto it, cos you'd just swap your tune back in when you get the car back.


u can fit a another pcm but u will need a tech 2 to make the new pcm talk to the bcm, and to be honest why would you do that, dont replace something till its broken.

[VYBerlinaV8]

You must be the only one ... bunch of tossers in there, wouldnt let them touch any car of mine ever !!

I get the impression that they've pi$$ed some people off in the past, and now they're trying to rebuild their reputation. They've always looked after me really well (so I bought the missus an Astra there on Saturday).