Fitting a new rad requires an ecu reflash. Shouldn't be a problem?
When cars were being returned for brake/rad failure problems how was the locked ecu managed?
I assume that cars returned to MMC at the factory meant probable unlocking possible. Dealers doing the work ? How would they have flashed the ecu if they couldn't unlock access? I seem to remember that the rad issue flash involved altering the temp at which the thermostat opened. Was the ecu locked at that time or is it a recent development?
I can understand locking it during warranty periods to protect both themselves and customers but post warranty then would the lock be viewed as an obstruction to owners having the freedom to access the ecu on a car they own? It could be argued that it is a restrictive condition. A simple disclaimer should suffice. Putting in a time managed lock makes some sense but who would set the start date to the owner getting the car that might have been in a showroom for months?The dealer themselves or would they need to connect to a MMC factory software source?
Are MMC/BMW restricting access as a means of making dealers being the go-to to help their after market business. Apparently independant garages have to pay significant sums to be allowed to have the diagnostic and remap capabilities.
An interesting scenario of legality, protectionism (?) . The s@fety claim might even be a veil of justification and image promotion.
