Frequently Asked Questions
**With ANY vehicle tune flash, bench or OBD2 there’s ALWAYS a flash count increase**
We, at SFT use YOUR ORIGINAL ECU, others use a blank off the shelf (serial numbers are different etc)
Using original equipment will ALWAYS decrease the risk when going to a dealership
The policy is “anything over 3”. Meaning 4 or more flashes that the technician sees can be questioned.
We, at SFT use YOUR ORIGINAL ECU, others use a blank off the shelf (serial numbers are different etc)
Using original equipment will ALWAYS decrease the risk when going to a dealership
The policy is “anything over 3”. Meaning 4 or more flashes that the technician sees can be questioned.
Q: WHAT'S THE TURN AROUND TIME for shipping and tuning?
A: Shipping will be within 3-10 business days after order is placed. You will receive a tracking number once it's shipped.
A: Tuning turn around time for ECU/TCM tunes is 72 business hours Mon - Fri (but NOT a guarantee).
A: Tuning turn around time for ECU/TCM tunes is 72 business hours Mon - Fri (but NOT a guarantee).
Q: Why you MUST flash ECU/TCM to Original Stock Tune before dealer visit?
A: Here's why; the Touchscreen is VIN and software locked because you can easily change the VIN on a vehicle and reuse the tuner over and over.
Once you flash the vehicle with the Touchscreen, let's say your current Software is version "1234"..you bring it to the dealer and they update you to Software "5678" well...now you're vehicle has stock software "5678". When you connect the Touchscreen it'll see a software mismatch (because it programmed your vehicle with software "1234"). And now the device is locked and must be reset. This is a $150 fee and you must return the device to us at SFT.
If unable to tune directly from Touchscreen you will need to send us the ECU/TCM file from step 3. Visit sofakingtuned.com/setup to begin.
1. Read the ECU/TCM again from vehicle with NEW software and then generate a ".USR" file that you'll email to us for re-tuning. A $50 update fee applies as you'll need to have your file custom re-tuned for the new software update.
Once you flash the vehicle with the Touchscreen, let's say your current Software is version "1234"..you bring it to the dealer and they update you to Software "5678" well...now you're vehicle has stock software "5678". When you connect the Touchscreen it'll see a software mismatch (because it programmed your vehicle with software "1234"). And now the device is locked and must be reset. This is a $150 fee and you must return the device to us at SFT.
If unable to tune directly from Touchscreen you will need to send us the ECU/TCM file from step 3. Visit sofakingtuned.com/setup to begin.
1. Read the ECU/TCM again from vehicle with NEW software and then generate a ".USR" file that you'll email to us for re-tuning. A $50 update fee applies as you'll need to have your file custom re-tuned for the new software update.
Q: HOW ARE YOUR TUNES WITH TOWING?
A: Compared to towing similar trailers, Trailer 1 is STOCK & Trailer 2 is Running the SFT Stage 2 ECU tune with TCM Tune.
Trailer 1 is 7,000 lbs and 11'2" tall. Avg MPG was 10.7
Trailer 2 is 7,200 lbs and 11'3" tall. Avg MPG was 14
Diesel is $3.15/gal national avg as of 1 June 2019.
With this information, you'll break even with the initial investment of the SFT tunes within 10,000 towing. Even LESS unloaded.
Explained MPG savings:
3,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $883 (280.37 gal used)
3,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $675 (214.28 gal used)
5,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $1,472 (467.29 gal used)
5,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $1,125 (357.14 gal used)
10,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $2,944 (934.58 gal used)
10,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $2,250 (714.29 gal used)
Trailer 1 is 7,000 lbs and 11'2" tall. Avg MPG was 10.7
Trailer 2 is 7,200 lbs and 11'3" tall. Avg MPG was 14
Diesel is $3.15/gal national avg as of 1 June 2019.
With this information, you'll break even with the initial investment of the SFT tunes within 10,000 towing. Even LESS unloaded.
Explained MPG savings:
3,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $883 (280.37 gal used)
3,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $675 (214.28 gal used)
5,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $1,472 (467.29 gal used)
5,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $1,125 (357.14 gal used)
10,000 miles @ 10.7MPG = $2,944 (934.58 gal used)
10,000 miles @ 14 MPG = $2,250 (714.29 gal used)
Q: I just received my touchscreen tuner and I'm stock or already have sft tuning, what's nexT?
A: If you're running the STOCK or SFT ECU tuning, no need to change anything in order to use a touch screen.
It's easy, simply update the template on your touch screen and then download the file from your vehicle. No need to change anything. You can get started by visiting: sofakingtuned.com/setup
WHY: The Touchscreen's ECU "Read" is a "Virtual Read". Meaning the device sees your engine software version "1234" then it's makes a record of this internally. When you send us your 19 kb file size engine .USR file, the program will provide us with the 4 mb actual stock software file to be used with the device for tuning *OR* we can use another stock file (same software version).
Existing SFT ECU Tuned Customers: We've already stored your stock software from previous tuning(stock/ST1/ST2) we simply import this into the software, compile a NEW . USR file and send it back to you.
This is why you can be STOCK or SFT ECU tuned at the time you connect the Touchscreen to your vehicle for the initial read.
This ALSO explains why other companies aren't compatible. They don't use factory software, instead they use their own proprietary files that need to be cloned directly to the ECU on a bench. They simply change the software version so it appears* to be the factory software, but it's not.
It's easy, simply update the template on your touch screen and then download the file from your vehicle. No need to change anything. You can get started by visiting: sofakingtuned.com/setup
WHY: The Touchscreen's ECU "Read" is a "Virtual Read". Meaning the device sees your engine software version "1234" then it's makes a record of this internally. When you send us your 19 kb file size engine .USR file, the program will provide us with the 4 mb actual stock software file to be used with the device for tuning *OR* we can use another stock file (same software version).
Existing SFT ECU Tuned Customers: We've already stored your stock software from previous tuning(stock/ST1/ST2) we simply import this into the software, compile a NEW . USR file and send it back to you.
This is why you can be STOCK or SFT ECU tuned at the time you connect the Touchscreen to your vehicle for the initial read.
This ALSO explains why other companies aren't compatible. They don't use factory software, instead they use their own proprietary files that need to be cloned directly to the ECU on a bench. They simply change the software version so it appears* to be the factory software, but it's not.
Q: Are the SFT engine tunes within safe EGT limits?
A: YES! SFT keeps EGTs within factory EGT safety specs:
Factory EGT limit is set for 1500F sustained / 1550F Max.
Factory EGT limit is set for 1500F sustained / 1550F Max.
Q: Will the ECU/TCM work if I have my ECU tuned by another company?
A: Yes, However with the ECU/TCM you must first return them to stock in order to use with a touchscreen.
Another companies ECU can be tuned ONLY with the internet ECU based method. You must have active internet and Windows PC each time you read/write ECU.
Another company tuned ECU/TCM is NOT compatible with touchscreens.
Another companies ECU can be tuned ONLY with the internet ECU based method. You must have active internet and Windows PC each time you read/write ECU.
Another company tuned ECU/TCM is NOT compatible with touchscreens.
Q: How do I return to stock and the SFT ECU/TCM tunes?
A:
Internet based ECU method - Send us a 107 request and in the comments INCLUDE your name and "RETURN TO STOCK". This requires an active internet connection and Windows PC each time.
The Touchscreen is stand alone and requires a Windows PC only for initial setup. It always contains your stock file, simply connect to vehicle, press tuning > original file selected > right arrow to continue with flash.
Internet based ECU method - Send us a 107 request and in the comments INCLUDE your name and "RETURN TO STOCK". This requires an active internet connection and Windows PC each time.
The Touchscreen is stand alone and requires a Windows PC only for initial setup. It always contains your stock file, simply connect to vehicle, press tuning > original file selected > right arrow to continue with flash.
Q: What's the difference between your "SFT Stage 1" and "SFT Stage 2" tune?
A: SFT's Stage 1 tune is for the everyday driver who wants to prolong the life of their engine/transmission, Aware of the the lag trying to pull out in to traffic. Or that HORRIBLE delay trying to pass someone on the highway? Yes, we understand you pain and that's gone with the SFT stage 1 / Stage 2 tunes, add the SFT TCM tune and you've got the PERFECT combo!
Average MPG increase is 5-10 MPG with an SFT ECU/TCM combo tune (3-5 MPG from Engine Tune / 2-5 MPG from Transmission Tune)
EcoDiesel Stock is 240 HP with 569 Nm / 420 ft lbs torque (dyno shows this to be near spot on)
SFT Stage 1 = Emissions Intact +40 HP and 70 Nm / 52 ft lbs torque increase
SFT Stage 2 = OFF-ROAD ONLY fully deleted +60 HP and 100 Nm / 74 ft lbs torque increase
**MPG & KM/H AVERAGE, NOT GUARANTEED. They are very possible when driving between 65-68 mph (105-109 km/h)**
Average MPG increase is 5-10 MPG with an SFT ECU/TCM combo tune (3-5 MPG from Engine Tune / 2-5 MPG from Transmission Tune)
EcoDiesel Stock is 240 HP with 569 Nm / 420 ft lbs torque (dyno shows this to be near spot on)
SFT Stage 1 = Emissions Intact +40 HP and 70 Nm / 52 ft lbs torque increase
SFT Stage 2 = OFF-ROAD ONLY fully deleted +60 HP and 100 Nm / 74 ft lbs torque increase
**MPG & KM/H AVERAGE, NOT GUARANTEED. They are very possible when driving between 65-68 mph (105-109 km/h)**
Q: How do i activate the vgt turbo brake?
A: To activate you must meet the following conditions:
1. Foot off the accelerator with engine RPMs greater than 2,000 RPMs
If you're coasting down hill simply downshift to keep RPMs over 2k (limits are in place to prevent over-revving engine).
1. Foot off the accelerator with engine RPMs greater than 2,000 RPMs
If you're coasting down hill simply downshift to keep RPMs over 2k (limits are in place to prevent over-revving engine).
Q: ON THE TRANSMISSION TUNE, WILL I HAVE FULL CONTROL OVER THE GEARS NOW?
A: Yes, you will have control. You will still set a "max allowed gear". This means no, you can't start out in 5th gear. This means you can make the vehicle shift into to 6th, 7th, or 8th gear when normally it wouldn't shift at all.
You can now cruise up the mountain in 8th gear! The transmission will automatically downshift if the load is too much BEFORE lugging the engine. We do NOT allow the EcoDiesel engine to lug with the SFT Transmission tune.
You can now cruise up the mountain in 8th gear! The transmission will automatically downshift if the load is too much BEFORE lugging the engine. We do NOT allow the EcoDiesel engine to lug with the SFT Transmission tune.
Q: CAN YOU DISABLE MY EGR AND PREVENT MY VEHICLE FROM BURNING WITH MY FAMILY INSIDE?
A: YES! SFT Stage 2 tune is exclusively closed course use ONLY. This will disable your stock exhaust components (DPF/SCR) &disable the EGR function.
Stage 1 / Stage 2: During checkout if you check "EGR removed?", your ECU tune will have the EGR function disabled.
Stage 1 / Stage 2: During checkout if you check "EGR removed?", your ECU tune will have the EGR function disabled.
Q: How does this work?
A: We send you the Engine and or Touchscreen device(s). You install the software on your Windows Based PC (required).
Touchscreen device(s): Open SFT Tuner software > download file, email to us. Once we send the file(s) back > upload to touchscreen then connect to vehicle for flashing. Windows PC is used initially to download/upload files to/from touchscreen. Then you only use the touchscreen
Internet based ECU device ONLY: While connected to the internet, you'll download and send us the ECU file/request. You MUST be connected to Windows PC and internet EACH TIME you read/write ECU
Touchscreen device(s): Open SFT Tuner software > download file, email to us. Once we send the file(s) back > upload to touchscreen then connect to vehicle for flashing. Windows PC is used initially to download/upload files to/from touchscreen. Then you only use the touchscreen
Internet based ECU device ONLY: While connected to the internet, you'll download and send us the ECU file/request. You MUST be connected to Windows PC and internet EACH TIME you read/write ECU
Q: HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO READ/WRITE MY ECU / TCM
A: Takes about:
- 1 Hour to setup the PC and read ECU. About 2 minutes to flash the calibrated ECU tune.
- 5 Minutes to read your TCM via touchscreen device. Once you've received the file back from SFT only 30 seconds to flash vehicle
- 1 Hour to setup the PC and read ECU. About 2 minutes to flash the calibrated ECU tune.
- 5 Minutes to read your TCM via touchscreen device. Once you've received the file back from SFT only 30 seconds to flash vehicle
Q: What's a DPF, SCR, EGR?
A:
DPF - Diesel particulate filter (DPF) is a device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.
SCR - Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) is an advanced active emissions control technology system that injects a liquid-reductant agent through a special catalyst into the exhaust stream of a diesel engine. The reductant source is usually automotive-grade urea, otherwise known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).
EGR - Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) is a nitrogen oxide (NOx ) emissions reduction technique used in petrol/gasoline and diesel engines. EGR works by recirculating a portion of an engine's exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders.
DPF - Diesel particulate filter (DPF) is a device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.
SCR - Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) is an advanced active emissions control technology system that injects a liquid-reductant agent through a special catalyst into the exhaust stream of a diesel engine. The reductant source is usually automotive-grade urea, otherwise known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).
EGR - Exhaust Gas Re-circulation (EGR) is a nitrogen oxide (NOx ) emissions reduction technique used in petrol/gasoline and diesel engines. EGR works by recirculating a portion of an engine's exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders.
Q: WHAT DO THE ECU PROTOCOLS 124 AND 107 MEAN?
A: 124 + read = Read ENTIRE ECU and upload to our server
107 + press read = request "hey SFT, where's my tune?"
107 + press write = select name in list, press ok to flash ECU
107 + press read = request "hey SFT, where's my tune?"
107 + press write = select name in list, press ok to flash ECU
Q: How can you tell if your vehicle actually performing a regen?
A: During a regeneration of the DPF, the vehicle will rev high (stationary), 1300-2000 RPMs and engine coolant/oil temps will be 210-220+.
***With our Torque template you can see if it's in regen mode 1 2 or 3. CTS simply stages "regen" which could be mode 1, "passive" (it happens when you drive and EGT temps go over 600-700 ) per the FCA literature.
Understanding how a DPF filter "fills up", the "%" percentage and it's value.
Understand this is ONLY a calculation of the engine and not a true "full" value.
For a more accurate way to determine filter percent full monitor the DPF differential pressure sensor instead
**Our Torque app template provides this custom PID.
If you're using something such as an Edge CTS etc. Then this is a moot point as it's ONLY programmed for a stock vehicle and bases it's data off fuel table numbers, throttle values (all of which we change in the programming).
Please note that your DPF won't regenerate until the DPF is 72% or more full, and will display a message "Drive on highway" if the DPF gets more than 80% full. SFT does NOT alter this stock setting.
***With our Torque template you can see if it's in regen mode 1 2 or 3. CTS simply stages "regen" which could be mode 1, "passive" (it happens when you drive and EGT temps go over 600-700 ) per the FCA literature.
Understanding how a DPF filter "fills up", the "%" percentage and it's value.
Understand this is ONLY a calculation of the engine and not a true "full" value.
For a more accurate way to determine filter percent full monitor the DPF differential pressure sensor instead
**Our Torque app template provides this custom PID.
If you're using something such as an Edge CTS etc. Then this is a moot point as it's ONLY programmed for a stock vehicle and bases it's data off fuel table numbers, throttle values (all of which we change in the programming).
Please note that your DPF won't regenerate until the DPF is 72% or more full, and will display a message "Drive on highway" if the DPF gets more than 80% full. SFT does NOT alter this stock setting.
SFT Stage 1 vs Stage 2 Dyno Results both using the SFT Transmission Tune
*This assumes a healthy maintained vehicle's condition.*
*We advise against tampering with emissions and driving on public streets. *
*We advise against tampering with emissions and driving on public streets. *