DTC Removal
At JME Performance in Blyth, we offer professional Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) removal services, providing a precise solution for vehicles experiencing persistent warning lights or “limp mode” due to specific fault codes. While DTCs are vital for diagnosing issues, sometimes they can become a hindrance, particularly in modified or performance-oriented vehicles where standard sensor readings might trigger irrelevant or unwanted codes.
Understanding Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated Engine Control Units (ECUs) that constantly monitor various sensors and systems. When a sensor detects a reading outside of its expected parameters, the ECU generates a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), which is essentially a fault code. These codes are stored in the ECU’s memory and often trigger a “Check Engine Light” (CEL) or “Malfunction Indicator Light” (MIL) on your dashboard. In some cases, a persistent or critical DTC can even force your vehicle into “limp mode,” significantly reducing power and limiting functionality to prevent further damage.
While DTCs are crucial for identifying genuine faults that require repair, they can also be triggered by:
Performance Modifications: Aftermarket parts like performance exhausts, upgraded air intakes, or turbo/supercharger kits can alter sensor readings, causing the ECU to falsely believe there’s a fault.
Component Deletion: If components like EGR valves, DPFs (Diesel Particulate Filters), or swirl flaps are physically removed (typically for off-road or motorsport use), the ECU will log DTCs because it no longer detects these parts.
Sensor Malfunctions (Non-Critical): Sometimes, a sensor might be slightly out of calibration or report an intermittent fault that doesn’t actually impact vehicle safety or performance, yet still triggers a warning light.
At JME Performance, we offer a meticulous and professional DTC removal service. We don’t just clear the code temporarily; we reprogram your ECU to intelligently ignore specific, pre-determined fault codes that are causing issues. Our process involves:
Comprehensive Diagnostic Scan: We always start with a full diagnostic scan to identify all active and pending DTCs in your vehicle’s ECU. This helps us understand the root cause and ensure DTC removal is the appropriate solution.
Expert ECU Analysis: Our experienced technicians will analyse your ECU’s software, identifying the specific parameters related to the problematic DTCs.
Precise Software Modification: Using advanced remapping tools and software, we carefully modify your ECU’s programming to permanently disable the specific DTCs that are causing issues, without affecting critical safety or operational functions. This is not simply clearing the code with a diagnostic tool, which would see it return.
Post-Modification Verification: After the DTC removal process, we perform another diagnostic scan and test the vehicle to confirm that the codes have been successfully eliminated and that the vehicle is operating as expected.