Frequently Asked Questions - bootmod3 FAQ

Background, the boring stuff... :)

We've been working tirelessly since late 2015 to create a truly unique cloud based performance flash tuning platform offering benefits both end users and tuners in ways prior unimaginable!

Up until bootmod3 came into existence there were two popular ways of tuning the BMW F series, using a piggyback device to just add boost, and the other, by sending your ECU (DME) out for a one time flash to a tuner of your choice.

With a piggyback the end user has only partial control over boost but no direct control over any other critical engine parameters such as ignition timing, lambda targets, fuel pressure targets, torque/load targeting, throttle mapping, valve timing and duration, various torque and load limiters, among others.

The other option that existed prior to BM3 was a one-time flash offered by many tuners that doesn't offer any diagnostics, datalogging or map switching capability. If the end user wanted to customize their tune for different modifications, octane levels, go bigger turbos with a built motor, datalog how the car was running, to get the most performance out of their car there simply wasn't any way of doing so, UNTIL NOW :)

bootmod3 is a full custom tuning platform for the factory engine computer (DME) available for Windows, macOS and mobile apps for iOS and Android. Users can change their tunes through the OBD port in their own driveway using the web or mobile apps taking just seconds to do so.

What do I need from you to get this going?

Click on this link for instructions: How to install bootmod3 on your vehicle

Do you have a user manual?

Yes, here's a link to the bootmod3 user manual: bootmod3 User Manual

How do I reach Tech or Sales Support if I have an issue or need help?

Open a tech support ticket with us on our support website and one of our staff will reach out to you:

https://bootmod3.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portals

How does bootmod3 flash the car, does it need internet?

bootmod3 is the first cloud based tuning platform. What this means is that we provide all the tools necessary to securely and most efficiently tune the car, through the Web, much like how you have your email with Google (Gmail) instead of hosting your own mail server. Data lives on our servers and the system provides enhanced features such as map editing and configuration, built-in custom tuning with tuners in our Tuner Directory without depending on emailing CSV files and map files back and forth. Tuners and end users can enjoy a high level of efficiency when custom tuning either on a local dyno or working with each other remotely.

Once a given version of a map is downloaded from the servers it can be flashed without internet access, similar to how Spotify for example works with music/songs.

Can I use bootmod3 with more than one car?

bootmod3 license applies to 1 vehicle (1 VIN). OBD Agent hardware device can be used on multiple cars.

Do I need to remove my DME and send it to you to unlock for programming?

In some cases this is required. There may be cases where the vehicle manufacturer releases a software update and changes the way unlocking the DME through OBD. The system will check support at the time of software license activation and our Tech Support team will advise if any special steps are needed at that time. Once connected with the car the app will show you the required unlock procedure.

Do you have Authorized Dealer shops who can install this for me?

Absolutely. You can get in touch with any of our authorized dealers listed on our website and get bootmod3 installed. NOTE: Prior appointment scheduling is required. Labour cost install is to be inquired with the shop you're looking to work with.

I see the Stock Tune under My Maps. How do I get a tune (OTS map) to flash on my car?

Go to the OTS Maps screen and click on the OTS Map you'd like to flash on your car and proceed with flashing. You can choose any of the OTS Maps available.

Any DYNO numbers or results?

You can view them on product pages on our website but results evolve and get better over time as well constantly. bootmod3 team strives for the best possible tunes all the time and updates are released for free. Many results on our instagram account @protuningfreaks but here are just some examples that have been posted in the past. Many are and have been added to our Instagram and Facebook accounts over time since:

bimmerpost.com, real world results/records listing:

http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1383036

N55 EWG Stock, Stage 2 93, Stage 2 E30: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg_ag7eF85Q/

N55 PWG Stage 2 93 octane: https://www.instagram.com/p/BhJjlnLlsQ1/

S63TU (M5 / M6 / X5M / X6M):
Stage 2 on 93 octane + downpipes: http://f10.m5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1337143

Can I run E85 or meth and do you have OTS maps for these?

Yes. We have E30 (30% ethanol) and E50 (50% ethanol) blend OTS maps available. Full E85 maps are custom and can be done with any of the tuners listed in our tuner directory.

How do I datalog and monitor how my car is doing?

Using either bootmod3.net website or the bootmod3 mobile app running in the car.

What's the difference between bootmod3 and a piggyback like JB4?

bootmod3 is software and reprograms the vehicle's factory engine computer (DME) and in some cases other ECUs such as the transmission control unit (EGS/TCU). Piggybacks are simply boost controllers with extremely limited ability in tuning. Piggybacks usually come to the market first due to simplicity in their install and function. A complete flash tune like bootmod3 is vastly superior in terms of tuning ability retaining all factory failsafes and in some cases taking things even further such as the case with our CustomROM.

Can I tune my own car with bootmod3?

Yes! You can go into the Stock Tune and do 'Save As' another map so your stock tune stays in tact and you can start tuning it yourself or with your preferred tuner/shop.

YouTube is a great source of videos on bootmod3 including customer and tuner reviews.

Will this void my warranty?

As with any aftermarket hardware modification on the car or any tuning, there is a chance the dealer may refuse or void the drivetrain portion of your warranty. Many dealers are highly tolerant towards modifications and if you don't have one, find yourself a friendly Service Advisor ;)

Can I re-sell or transfer my license?

Yes. Bootmod3 is the only flash solution where the license can be resold and/or transferred to a new VIN when/if you decide to move on for any reason. Having re-sale value is a great advantage to choosing bootmod3 for your tuning which is NOT available with any other flash tune.

License transfer is restricted to the original order purchase and buyer. Transferred licenses cannot be transferred more than once.
Any previously purchased OTS maps and custom tunes by the original buyer are not transferrable due to map data incompatibilities between cars.
To transfer a license you need to have the original VIN flashed back to the Stock TuneAND DME RELOCKED using bootmod3 interface. Go to the vehicle menu, and click on 'Transfer My License' and follow the instructions.

FLASHING BACK TO STOCK AND LOCKING THE DME WITH ANY OTHER FLASH TOOLS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

For instructions on this click here: bootmod3 License transfer