Reading a Vehicle

Reading a Vehicle Using VCM Editor

Reading a vehicle involves transferring the calibration data from the vehicle’s control module(s) into HP Tuners' VCM Editor. This process automatically detects the relevant vehicle control modules (VCMs) and reads them in sequence. A progress bar and status messages provide real-time updates during the procedure.

Caution: Ensure the vehicle’s battery is fully charged before starting. It is highly recommended to keep the battery connected to a charger throughout the process. Although the read operation is generally safe, a power loss can cause a control module to enter an abnormal state.

If communication with a module is interrupted, the software will attempt to reset the module and prompt you to resolve the issue before retrying.

Read Procedure

Follow the steps below to read a vehicle’s VCM:

1. Connect the Interface Device

Attach your HP Tuners interface device to a laptop with VCM Suite installed. Then connect the device to the vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic port.

For additional guidance, refer to: Connecting to a Vehicle

2. Close VCM Scanner

If VCM Scanner is open, close it before proceeding.

3. Launch VCM Editor

Open the VCM Editor application.

4. Close Any Open Tune Files

If a tune file is open, go to File > Close in the menu bar to close it.

5. Turn the Ignition On

Switch the ignition to the ON (or RUN) position without starting the engine.

Note: Some vehicles require a special procedure to be placed in the correct ignition state. See: Putting a Vehicle in the "ON" State

6. Minimize Vehicle Activity

Ensure all accessories are turned off and doors are closed.

Caution: Do not use any vehicle functions, including door locks, during the read process.

7. Initiate the Read

In VCM Editor, navigate to Flash > Read Vehicle.

8. Wait for Initialization

The Vehicle Reader window will appear. Wait 10–15 seconds for communication to initialize.

9. Begin the Read Process

Click the Read button to start the read procedure.

 

10. Monitor the Read

Allow VCM Editor to read all vehicle controllers. A status bar will indicate progress and completion.

Note: During this time, the instrument panel may show various warnings or lights, and accessories may turn on and off—this is normal.

For vehicles with multiple VCMs (e.g., LS2 A4 models), expect a 15-second pause between each module read.

11. Power Down and Disconnect

Once the read is complete, turn off the ignition and disconnect the interface cable.

12. Access the Read File

The file will open automatically in VCM Editor upon completion.

13 Save and Backup the File

If this is your initial read of the stock controller, we strongly recommend saving and backing up the file before making any changes. This ensures you can restore the vehicle to its stock configuration in the future if necessary.