ECU Programming & Calibration Policy
1. Purpose and Scope
This Policy explains how KWR approaches ECU, TCU, and related electronic programming and calibration services, including engineering evaluation, Vehicle suitability, programming methods, validation, remote work, data logging, configuration changes, and support.
2. Engineering Philosophy
ECU calibration is an engineering discipline rather than a numerical exercise. The objective is to improve the overall driving experience while maintaining appropriate consideration for drivability, reliability, component capability, intended use, and the complete Vehicle system. Every Vehicle is different. Manufacturing tolerances, operating environment, maintenance history, fuel quality, hardware configuration, software version, and previous modifications can influence calibration requirements. KWR does not treat calibration as a universal one-size-fits-all exercise.
3. Scope of Services
- ECU and TCU programming;
- OBD, bench, and boot programming;
- ECU unlocking;
- Remote tuning and mail-in programming;
- Calibration revisions where appropriate;
- Software updates;
- Diagnostic evaluation and data-log analysis;
- Engineering consultation.
4. Vehicle Suitability
Calibration cannot correct underlying mechanical deficiencies. Customers are responsible for presenting a Vehicle reasonably suitable for the requested work and for following KWR recommendations regarding mechanical concerns that materially affect calibration.
5. Mandatory Disclosure
Customers must disclose all known modifications, previous tuning, aftermarket components, software changes, electronic systems, recent repairs, diagnostic trouble codes, known mechanical concerns, and other information reasonably relevant to the Vehicle and requested Services. The purpose is to establish an accurate Engineering Baseline and improve engineering efficiency - not to criticize previous work.
6. Engineering Baseline and Original Vehicle Configuration
Before modifying calibration data, KWR may establish an Engineering Baseline using Vehicle information, diagnostic data, software identification, operating data, Customer-provided information, and other appropriate observations. The Original Vehicle Configuration is the documented configuration upon which the originally authorized calibration engineering is based.
7. Programming Methods and Equipment
Depending on Vehicle architecture, software, module security, manufacturer requirements, and available tooling, KWR may use OBD, bench, boot, unlock, remote, mail-in, or other appropriate programming methods. KWR uses qualified programming equipment, software platforms, and engineering tools appropriate to the application.
8. Calibration Validation
Validation may include diagnostic review, data analysis, controlled testing, chassis dynamometer testing, data logging, calibration verification, or other appropriate engineering methods. Performance may vary because of mechanical condition, fuel quality, altitude, environment, hardware, component tolerances, software versions, and operating conditions. Unless expressly stated in a Separate Written Agreement, KWR does not guarantee a specific horsepower, torque, elapsed time, acceleration, fuel economy, or other performance figure.
9. Road-Test Limitations
KWR will not intentionally violate traffic laws or operate a Customer Vehicle unsafely or unnecessarily aggressively to reproduce a concern. Extreme-performance conditions may require a dyno, controlled testing, Customer-provided data, or separately arranged track evaluation.
10. Data Logging and Customer Participation
Customers may be asked to provide logs, diagnostic information, photographs, video, or other information necessary to evaluate operating conditions that cannot be reproduced during shop testing. Successful remote calibration requires timely Customer participation and accurate adherence to KWR instructions.
11. Vehicle Configuration Changes and Retuning
The delivered calibration is engineered for the Original Vehicle Configuration unless otherwise documented. Changes to hardware, forced induction, fuel systems, injectors, intake, exhaust, sensors, electronics, gearing, tire diameter, software, fuel type, or other relevant systems may require new engineering evaluation and recalibration. Calibration refinements addressing the originally authorized scope may be handled under the applicable support or Workmanship Commitment. A retune required because the Customer makes additional modifications is new engineering work and is generally billable. Customers are encouraged to discuss future modifications before calibration so KWR can help plan an efficient upgrade path.
12. Post-Calibration Support
KWR remains available for reasonable questions and support consistent with the purchased Products and Services. Customers should notify KWR of Material Modifications or Vehicle Configuration changes that may affect operation.
13. Intellectual Property and Customer Use
Calibration files, strategies, maps, definitions, methodologies, development processes, and supporting engineering information may contain KWR or third-party intellectual property. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, purchase of calibration Services authorizes legitimate use of the delivered calibration for the applicable Vehicle and Vehicle Configuration but does not transfer ownership of KWR's underlying calibration methodologies, proprietary definitions, or Background Intellectual Property.
14. Administration
This Policy should be read with the Terms of Service, Warranty & Workmanship Policy, Shop Services Policy, Shipping Policy, Customer Portal & Electronic Communications Policy, and Definitions & Interpretation.