For BMW diesel owners seeking a performance boost, exploring Obdii Ecu Tuners is often the first step. Recently, I embarked on this journey with my 35d, diving into the world of ECU tuning to unlock hidden power and optimize driving dynamics. After extensive research, I opted for the Malone Tuning Stage 1 tune, primarily drawn to their user-friendly approach that allows for self-flashing directly through the OBDII port using an Alientech tablet. This review details my experience with the Malone Tuning Stage 1, covering everything from ordering to flashing and, most importantly, the performance results.
Malone Tuning, based in Canada, has cultivated a strong reputation in Diesel Direct Injection (DDE) tuning, particularly within the Volkswagen TDI community. Their specialization in diesel engine calibration and positive feedback in VW tuning forums instilled confidence in their expertise. While alternatives like DUDMD and BPC are available, Malone Tuning’s focus on diesel and the convenience of OBDII self-tuning set them apart for my needs. Stage 1 tunes from these vendors are generally considered to offer similar performance gains, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference and desired user experience.
Ordering and Cost of the Malone Stage 1 OBDII ECU Tune
The ordering process from Malone Tuning was straightforward and efficient. After emailing a few initial questions and providing my vehicle details, their support team responded promptly and informatively. Upon deciding on the Stage 1 tune, I received a PayPal invoice encompassing the cost of both the FlashZilla v3 tuning module and the Stage 1 tune itself. Shipping was handled swiftly via Priority Mail.
Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with this OBDII ECU tuning solution:
- FlashZilla v3: $180 + $15 shipping
- Stage 1 Tune: $749
- Total: $944
This investment provides not only a significant performance upgrade but also the flexibility of managing the ECU tune yourself, directly from your vehicle’s OBDII port.
OBDII ECU Flashing: A Step-by-Step Guide with FlashZilla v3
The FlashZilla v3 module, essential for OBDII ECU flashing, shares similarities with other tuning tablets, likely stemming from Alientech, a common manufacturer in this domain. The package includes the FlashZilla device, a USB cable for computer connectivity and updates, and an OBDII cable for vehicle connection.
The flashing process, facilitated by the FlashZilla v3, is designed for user convenience and can be executed in a few key steps:
- Software Installation and Device Update: Download the FlashZilla software from Malone Tuning’s website and ensure the tablet is updated to the latest firmware.
- ECU Reading via OBDII: Connect the FlashZilla to your vehicle’s OBDII port. With the car in the “on” position (start button pressed without engaging the engine) and accessories like lights, radio, and climate control turned off, initiate the ECU reading process. Although not strictly necessary for the quick reading step, connecting a battery charger is a recommended precaution to maintain consistent voltage.
- ECU Identification: During the ECU reading, you’ll need to select your vehicle’s ECU type. For US-spec xDrive35d models, selecting the xDrive30d option (specifically, “xDrive30d 8AT, N57D30O1, EDC17C56”) is the correct choice, as confirmed by Malone Tuning support. Their responsive email support was instrumental in clarifying this detail.
- File Transfer and Tune Acquisition: Once the ECU reading is complete (approximately 30 seconds), connect the FlashZilla to your computer, download the stock ECU file, and email it to Malone Tuning. The Stage 1 tuned file is typically returned within a few hours.
- Tune Upload and OBDII Flashing: Upload the received Stage 1 tune file to the FlashZilla. Reconnect the FlashZilla to the OBDII port, ensuring the vehicle is prepared for flashing. This preparation includes connecting a battery charger, turning off accessories, buckling the driver’s seatbelt, and activating hazard lights – steps advised by FlashZilla to prevent the vehicle from entering sleep mode during the process.
- Flashing Procedure: Initiate the flashing process, which takes around 20 minutes. The FlashZilla displays a progress bar and status messages indicating memory erasing and writing phases. Warning messages may appear on the iDrive screen during this time, which are normal and expected.
- Completion and Post-Flash Procedures: Upon successful flashing, the FlashZilla prompts you to turn off the car and disconnect the device. Allow the vehicle to sit for a few minutes before disconnecting the battery charger and starting the engine.
Starting the car after flashing revealed no error messages or check engine lights (CELs), and a subsequent code scan confirmed no stored fault codes.
Performance Unleashed: Stage 1 OBDII ECU Tune Results
Malone Tuning advertises a significant performance increase with their Stage 1 tune for the N57 engine, boosting output from the stock 255 hp/413 ft/lbs to an impressive 340 hp/510 ft/lbs. This translates to a remarkable gain of 85 hp and 97 ft/lbs of torque. While dyno results specific to the N57 engine weren’t available on their site at the time of my purchase, Malone Tuning’s established reputation in diesel tuning provided sufficient assurance in their claims.
Driving with the Stage 1 tune has been a noticeable upgrade. Around town, the low-end torque delivery feels smoother and more responsive. However, the true transformation is experienced on the highway and in higher RPM ranges. The engine exhibits significantly enhanced pulling power when accelerating onto highways, a marked improvement over the stock configuration, which, while offering good initial torque, tended to lose steam as revs climbed.
Interestingly, the performance seems to improve further with driving time, possibly due to the engine adapting to the new tune. While Malone Tuning currently offers only a Stage 1 tune for the N57, it adequately fulfills my performance requirements, providing a substantial increase in both horsepower and torque while expectedly maintaining long-term engine reliability. I am also optimistic about potential fuel economy improvements, theorizing that the increased torque may allow the engine to operate in higher gears more frequently, offsetting the slightly increased fuel consumption associated with generating more power.
Conclusion: Malone Tuning Stage 1 OBDII ECU Tune – A Worthwhile Upgrade
Overall, my experience with the Malone Tuning Stage 1 OBDII ECU tune has been overwhelmingly positive. Malone Tuning’s customer support proved to be highly responsive and helpful, addressing my queries promptly and thoroughly. The convenience of performing the DDE flashing independently, at my own pace and location, is a significant advantage. Furthermore, the ability to easily revert back to the stock ECU map at any time provides added peace of mind.
For BMW diesel owners seeking a tangible performance enhancement delivered through a user-friendly OBDII ECU tuner solution, the Malone Tuning Stage 1 tune and FlashZilla v3 combination is a highly recommended option. The performance gains are substantial, the process is manageable for DIY enthusiasts, and the support from Malone Tuning is commendable. I intend to provide further updates as I accumulate more driving time with the tune.
Alt text: Happy customer after successful OBDII ECU tune installation, expressing satisfaction with performance gains.
