J2534 Manual 2.

J2534 Application Overview

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9/19/2013

The purpose of this document is to familiarize the user with how to:

1. Download and install the J2534 Application

2. Downloading ECU reprogramming files
3. Use the J2534 Application for ECU Flash Reprogramming
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Contents

J2534 Overview .......................................................................................................3

J2534 Knowledge Base....................................................................................................3
Chrysler recommended J2534 devices ................................................................................4
Adaptor Requirements ...................................................................................................4
1.0 -TechAuthority.com ...........................................................................................5
1.0.1 - TechAuthority Registration ................................................................................5
1.0.2 - TechAuthority Online Subscription.......................................................................6
1.1 - TechAuthority Online Requirements ................................................................7
1.2 - TechAuthority Online .......................................................................................8
2.0 – J2534 Software ...............................................................................................9
2.0.1 - J2534 Software Download (requires valid TechAuthority Online subscription) ..............10
2.1 - J2534 Software Installation: .........................................................................11
2.1.1 - Removing the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application .....................................................11
2.2 - Launching the Chrysler J2534 Application.....................................................12
2.2.1 - J2534 Application Capabilities ..........................................................................13
2.3 - Launching the Legacy Chrysler J2534 Flash Application ...............................14
3.0 - J2534 Flash Availability Document ................................................................16
3.1 - Downloading J2534 ECU Flash Files ..............................................................17
3.1.1 - J2534 Flash Download Page .............................................................................17
3.1.2 - Searching for Flash Files using YME (Year, Model, Engine) ........................................17
3.1.3 - Searching for ECU Flash files using Part number ....................................................18
3.1.4 - Additional Information and Known Customer Issues / Concern .................................20
4.0 - Support ..........................................................................................................21
Appendix A: Known Hardware Issues ....................................................................23
A-1 - "Snap-On VERUS Tool" has been reported to have the following issues: ........................23
A.2 - OTC- VCI J2534 device has been reported to have the following issues: .........................24
A.3 - J2534 (SCI) Flash Process Failed using J2534 ...........................................................24

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J2534 Overview
Vehicle manufacturers are required by law to provide a Windows software application for
reprogramming emission-related ECUs using a J2534 capable interface. A J2534 device plugs
into the vehicle OBD connector and connects to a computer running a J2534 compliant
reprogramming application. For Chrysler vehicles, a TechAuthority subscription is necessary to
install the J2534 application and download flash files.

The J2534 System is a combination of the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application and the New J2534
Application. J2534 aftermarket users are required and responsible for installing the J2534
device driver provided by the device manufacturer. If you need support installing the device
driver software contact the device manufacturer. Chrysler J2534 application provides below
capabilities:

1. The Chrysler J2534 Flash Application provides ECU reprogramming support for
emission control modules only (ECM, PCM, TCM and CTV). This application is applicable
for 2009 and prior model years.
2. The New J2534 Application provides support for 2010 or newer vehicles and includes
the following features:
ECU reprogramming files are automatically downloaded via the application
J2534 Applicable ECUs can be reprogrammed, if a flash is available
Required ECU applicable routines are available after ECU reprogramming or ECU
replacement.
An internet connection and bandwidth (1.5 Mbps) is required for access to the
TechAuthority website.

PLEASE NOTE: The wiTECH Help Desk does NOT ACCEPT CALLS regarding J2534 issues or
questions. Please refer to section 4.0 of this document for more details.

J2534 Knowledge Base

It is strongly advised that J2534 users review all associated documentation BEFORE using the
J2534 Application. ECU reprogramming support requires an understanding of vehicle
diagnostics, ECU communications and vehicle electrical architecture. A misunderstanding of
what is required to perform ECU reprogramming on Chrysler supported vehicles can lead to a
frustrating and unsuccessful experience.

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Chrysler recommended J2534 devices

* Chrysler recommends the CTC Vehicle Box Device for Chrysler SCI ECU reprogramming. SCI reprogramming is
used on most PCMs and TCMs prior to the introduction of CAN bus vehicles which began in 2004 (Durango).

Adaptor Requirements

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Section 1.0 – TechAuthority

1.0 -TechAuthority.com

The TechAuthority website at https://www.techauthority.com provides aftermarket users with

access to purchase a subscription to TechAuthority Online, which provides access to:

The J2534 Application

J2534 applicable ECU flash files.
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
Service Diagnostic Procedures
Chrysler Wiring Diagrams

The information below is provided as a reference only. For additional details, please visit the
TechAuthority website at www.techauthority.com.

NOTE:

Access to
TechAuthority
Online requires
TechAuthority
registration and a
purchased
subscription to
TechAuthority
Online. Users
must select the
TechAuthority
Online “Sign In”
link to log in.

1.0.1 - TechAuthority Registration

To use TechAuthority for Chrysler vehicles first register for a user account with
TechAuthority.com as shown below.

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1.0.2 - TechAuthority Online Subscription

To log into TechAuthority Online:

1. Purchase a TechAuthority Online subscription using your TechAuthority account. After

logging into your TechAuthority user account, select the TechAuthority On-Line
Subscriptions tab to purchase your subscription.

2. Receive email confirmation from TechAuthority of your TechAuthority Online username

and password.
3. Use this information to log into TechAuthority Online section of the TechAuthority
website, by selecting the TechAuthority Online Sign In link as indicated below.

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1.1 - TechAuthority Online Requirements

The minimum PC requirements to use the TechAuthority.com website are documented and can
be found on the TechAuthority website under Related Documents and Links as shown below.

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1.2 - TechAuthority Online

TechAuthority Online users should take the time to become familiar with what is available on
the site and how to use these tabs and features.

TechAuthority Online J2534 Application users have access to the following:

Service Diagnostics Procedures

Wiring Diagrams
Technical Service Bulletins
J2534 Flash Application

Common Vehicle Information required for TechAuthority Online usage:

VIN
Year, Model, Engine (YME)
Original ECU Part number
New ECU Part number
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)

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Section 2.0 – The J2534 System

2.0 – J2534 Software
To access the J2534 Application for installation and flash files, select the J2534 Flash
Application Process link.

After selecting the J2534 Flash Application link a new window opens as shown below:

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2.0.1 - J2534 Software Download (requires valid TechAuthority Online subscription)

To download the J2534 Application, scroll down the page and select the J2534 System link as
shown below.

After selecting the above link the page below will open with directions and a link to download
and save the latest release of the J2534 Application Software. Be sure to check this page when
you log into TechAuthority Online to confirm you are using the latest J2534 Application release.

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2.1 - J2534 Software Installation:

After downloading and saving the J2534 Install file, double-click the file and follow the
application installation prompts.

Be sure to review the PC requirements documents for J2534 Application software

installation located at http://kb.dcctools.com/index.php?View=entry&EntryID=333.

Note:

You will need administrative privileges to install this file

You will need to confirm that the latest versions of the following software has been
installed:
o Adobe Air (available from http://www.adobe.com)
o Java ( available from http://www.java.com or www.oracle.com)
Be sure to remove the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application from this PC.

2.1.1 - Removing the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application

If your PC has the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application listed in the All Programs menu on your PC,
you must first remove this program before installing the J2534 Application.

To remove the Chrysler J2534 Flash Application, navigate to C:\Program Files\Chrysler\ and the
delete the Chrysler folder.

If you have already installed the New J2534 Application prior to deleting the Chrysler J2534
Flash Application, you will have to remove the J2534 Application and reinstall it.

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2.2 - Launching the Chrysler J2534 Application

The J2534 System Application includes both

Support for 2010 and newer vehicles.

Support for the Legacy Chrysler J2534 Flash Application for 2009 and older vehicles.

Before starting J2534 Application confirm that the J2534 server is started. The J2534 Server is
the round Green Icon in the lower right-hand corner system tray.

To launch the Application, double-click the shortcut icon on your desktop:

For 2010 or newer Chrysler vehicles, select the first radio button “Connect to 2010 or later
vehicle”.

To login to the New J2534 Flash Application, an internet connection is required as well as a
valid subscription to TechAuthority Online.

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2.2.1 - J2534 Application Capabilities

This application will work with any 2010 and newer Chrysler vehicle.

When working on 2010 or new Chrysler vehicles, the New J2534 application will automatically
provide ECU flash reprogramming files. Users do not need to download the flash files from
TechAuthority ahead of time.

The New J2534 Application can also perform applicable routines required after ECU
reprogramming, such as PCM replaced, Learn ETC, etc.

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Troubleshooting Tip: If all ECUs in J2534 Network Topology screen display as "RED"/in-
active, or the user receives a “No Response” error message the J2534 Application most likely
lost connection to J2534 Device.

Close J2534 Application

Disconnect J2534 device completely from Vehicle/PC and connect it back
Give IGN cycle to Vehicle
Start J2534 Application and connect to J2534 device.

2.3 - Launching the Legacy Chrysler J2534 Flash Application

For 2009 or older, select the “Connect to 2009 or earlier vehicle” and Select the Start Legacy
Application tab.

The following Window will open.

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Note: User will need to download the applicable flash file from TechAuthority Online, before
selecting the Start button.

Troubleshooting Tip: For certain PC configurations when launching the Legacy J2534
Application. Users will need to select the application from their All Programs > J2534 > Chrysler
J2534 Flash Application, as the shortcut does not work with the new release J 4.0.20.

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Section 3 – Downloading J2534 ECU

Flash Files
3.0 - J2534 Flash Availability Document
The J2534 Flash Availability document is located on the TechAuthority.com website under
Related Documents and Links and on the TechAuthority On-Line Home Page.

The J2534 Flash Availability document is intended to provide Aftermarket users with the correct
ECU Flash reprogramming part number and designated supercedence list without having to
purchase a TechAuthority Online subscription.

Procedure:
To use the J2534 Flash Availability document:
Confirm current ECU Software part number or new generic ECU replacement part
number.
Review the J2534 Flash Availability document for the vehicle YME (Year, Model and
Engine) and the ECU
Review list for updated ECU part number and supercedence.

Supercedence:
This is the list of supported software part numbers that a specific ECU flash will update. If the
current software part number is not listed the flash will not update the controller and is not
applicable to that particular YME and part.

Steps After Successful Flash Reprogramming:

Chrysler J2534 Flash Application for 2009 and earlier vehicles does not provide any functionality
to perform Routine/Key programming after a successful flash.

After successful reprogramming or replacement of any J2534 applicable ECU, the J2534 generic
scan tool user must follow associated Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for any additionally
required steps. TSB information can be found on TechAuthority Online website. If a routine is
required to be performed in order to start the vehicle, J2534 users will need to refer to the
Chrysler Group LLC Scan Tool Lease Options below:
For 2009 model year vehicles and prior, it may be necessary to use either a DRBIII or a
StarSCAN to perform function required after ECU replacement. To lease the DRBIII call 1-
586-532-8400 or click here.
Beginning with 2010 MY, function required to replace an ECU will be supported via the
J2534 application.

Note: The New J2534 Application supports these functions on only 2010 and newer vehicles.

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3.1 - Downloading J2534 ECU Flash Files

To download J2534 ECU Flash reprogramming files, you will need a valid TechAuthority Online
Subscription. After logging into TechAuthority Online, select J2534 Flash Application
Process link. On the new window, scroll to the section labeled “The Chrysler J2534 Flash
Application – Application Usage and Support”. To download flash files, select the “Click
here to download ECU reprogramming files” link as shown below.

3.1.1 - J2534 Flash Download Page

Users can choose how to find the appropriate flash file for their module by using the vehicle
VIN, YME or ECU Part Number.

3.1.2 - Searching for Flash Files using YME (Year, Model, Engine)

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J2534 Application users are required to know what calibration their particular ECU requires.
(Users should reference the J2534 Flash Availability document located on the TechAuthority
website under Related Documents and Links)

3.1.3 - Searching for ECU Flash files using Part number

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Once the appropriate file/(s) display, select the appropriate radio button and select Download.
The “Files downloaded successfully” will appear when the file has downloaded successfully.
Some users may be prompted to run a JAVA applet in order to complete the flash download.

Please Note: Some modules do not have ECU Flash files available, because the ECU does not
have any updates or the new ECU is shipped already programmed. In these cases the following
message will appear.

If you see this notification above, review the J2534 Flash Availability document located on the
TechAuthority website under Related Documents and Links and information referenced in
Section 3.0 of this document.

Troubleshooting Tip:

Problems can occur when an ECU module is replaced with the wrong ECU module. Selecting
the wrong calibration file can lead to poor vehicle performance, engine damage or a vehicle that
will not start. Obtaining the original ECU part number and following supercedence rules is
extremely important when replacing an ECU. Once an ECU has been reprogrammed, the new
calibration cannot be removed. Previously used ECU modules are not supported with the
J2534 Application. Please review Section 3.0 of this document and the J2534 Flash
Availability document located on the TechAuthority website under Related Documents and Links
when replacing ECUs.

Troubleshooting Tip:

If you receive the following error message: J2534 Application Issues: "flash files are
corrupt, please re download" you will need to first delete all the previously downloaded
flash files, download the flash file again and reattempt the flash.

Delete all the previously downloaded flash files from the following directories based on your
Windows Operating System:

XP Machine: Navigate to Start > My Computer > C: > DCX2534 folder and delete all
downloaded flash files.
WIN 7 Machine: Navigate to Start > Computer > C: > Users > Current Users Name >
Application Data > Local > temp > low and delete all downloaded flash files

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3.1.4 - Additional Information and Known Customer Issues / Concern

• 1996 - 2008 5.9L ECM (Cummins)

If you are reprogramming the 5.9L diesel engine controller on the 1996-2008 Dodge RAM
vehicles, it is necessary to also reprogram the VIN after the ECU has been flashed. To write
the VIN to the ECU, you may use aftermarket software support, or use an OEM Chrysler
Group LLC scan tool (DRBIII or StarSCAN). Chrysler Group LLC Scan Tool Lease
Options below:

• 1996 - 2009 All PCMs

If you are REPLACING a PCM or ECM and the vehicle is equipped with a theft deterrent
system (Sentry Key), it must be initialized to properly function with the Anti Theft module.
You also need to reprogram the VIN when replacing a PCM or ECM. To write the VIN to the
ECU and initialize the PCM to work with the theft deterrent system, you may use aftermarket
software support, or use an OEM Chrysler Group LLC scan tool (DRBIII or StarSCAN).
Chrysler Group LLC Scan Tool Lease Options below.

Chrysler Group LLC Scan Tool Lease Options:

For 2009 model year vehicles and prior, it may be necessary to use either a DRBIII or a
StarSCAN to perform function required after ECU replacement. To lease the DRBIII call 1-
586-532-8400 or click here.
Beginning with 2010 MY, function required to replace an ECU will be supported via the
J2534 application.

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Section 4.0 - Support

4.0 - Support

Support Procedure for Chrysler J2534 Application

Please read through the different levels below to determine where you should direct your
communications related to your issue.

PLEASE NOTE: The wiTECH Premium Support Help Desk DOES NOT ACCEPT PHONE
CALLS regarding J2534 issues or questions.

Level 1 – If you need assistance using your J2534 generic scan tool, this includes:

Assistance with errors when attempting vehicle communication

Attempting to perform ECU reprogramming
Writing the VIN

Please contact your generic scan tool hardware manufacturer directly.

The J2534 device manufacturer will then collect the necessary information about the
error / issue and create an open issue ticket with Chrysler to work through the
issue. This is necessary to ensure that the problem is root caused and includes the
appropriate technical data to resolve the issue. Please keep in mind, because of the
distributed PC model that J2534 uses, the problem can reside in one or more
software and hardware components which are developed and managed by different
responsible parties.
Generic scan tool manufacturers are required by Chrysler to report any issues they
determine are the fault of the Chrysler J2534 application directly to Chrysler. If your
device manufacturer is not aware of this process, a device manufacturer can email
[email protected] requesting information on how they can report J2534
application issues directly to Chrysler.

Level 2 – If you need assistance with the TechAuthority web site, including, but not
limited to, any of the following items:

Any issue accessing the TechAuthority website.

Any issue in buying subscription from TechAuthority.
Any issues which are related to credit card processing while trying to make a
purchase from TechAuthority.
Service Diagnostic Procedure information
Wiring diagram information

Please contact TechAuthority Customer Care at 1-800-890-4038 or send them an email at

[email protected].

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Level 3 - If after you’ve read this document in its entirety (including the known hardware
issues section) and your issue doesn’t fall within either the level 1 or level 2 support
definitions and still require additional assistance, send us an email at
[email protected] with the following list of mandatory information included:

Name of the user

Users contact information (email or phone number)
Name of business (if applicable)
J2534 hardware device being used
J2534 hardware device firmware version
Chrysler J2534 application software version
Vehicle year, model and engine
Vehicle VIN
Current ECU part number
New ECU part number (if applicable)
Detailed description of the problem that your encountering that is not currently
addressed by online documentation

If the issue involves communication with the vehicle, please provide the following additional
information:

The name of the device manufacturer support representative that you spoke with
The date that you initiated contact with the device manufacturer

With the device manufacturer’s information we will link your issue with the formal issue
ticket which is the responsibility of the device manufacturer to create. If the issue has not
yet been created, you will have to work with your device manufacturer to have them create
a problem ticket if they believe the issue is Chrysler’s direct responsibility.

Your issue will be reviewed for applicability and possibly forwarded to a Chrysler J2534
developer for further review. You also may be contacted as deemed appropriate for your issue.

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Appendix A: Known Hardware Issues

These are NOT application issues. They are issues due to the device/system used with the
J2534 Application.

A-1 - "Snap-On VERUS Tool" has been reported to have the following issues:

1. Does not meet the minimum requirements. It is highly recommended to use a regular
window PC/laptop that meets the minimum J2534 Application requirements for installation.
J2534 PC Requirements are located at http://kb.dcctools.com/index.php?View=entry&EntryID=333.

2. “Windows Script Host error: There is no file extension in “C:\Program”..

This error is caused by a non-standard windows operating system on the Snap On VERUS.
This is NOT an application issue.

3. “J2534 Server was not found”

Again, this error is caused by the non-standard windows operating system/structure

on the Snap On VERUS tool. This is NOT application issue.

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A.2 - OTC- VCI J2534 device has been reported to have the following issues:

“Error: The selected Pass Thru has no defined Function Library”

Chrysler experience with this issue is that the device may have the wrong device firmware /
configuration. Please make sure you have correct Device Driver / firmware installed and try
the process again. If you continue to experience the same issue, please contact the J2534
device manufacturer for further assistance.

A.3 - J2534 (SCI) Flash Process Failed using J2534

For any Chrysler SCI J2534 Flash, the CTC Vehicle Box device is the recommended tool to
use. Although there are many J2534 devices available, Chrysler has validated CTC Vehicle Box
device with for this Chrysler Flash Process. The CTC Vehicle Box does not have any known
failures with flashing/reprogramming Chrysler ECUs that use the SCI bus protocol.

J2534 user’s may see the following behavior when flashing an SCI controller, the PCM portion of
the Flash passed Successful and Failed at the TCM /second half with an error message: “An
error occurred sending …..“. If you received this message and are NOT using a CTC Vehicle
Box device for this flash, you must contact your device manufacturer for assistance and
escalation to Chrysler.

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