Q: What is an OBD read?

A: This is a full read of the ECU, obtained by connecting the supplied cable to the car’s onboard diagnostic port, and following the KESS Suite instructions. Watch the example videos here and here.

Q: What is a virtual read?

A: If a full read of the ECU cannot be obtained via OBD, the KESS software will instead take an ECU ID and compare it with our database of original files. If we have that file we are then able to supply it, but we are not able to analyse the current state of the ECU, unless a full read is taken. For the purposes of analysing the current status of an ECU, virtual reads are of no value.

Q: What is a bench read?

A: This is the alternative method of obtaining an ECU read when it cannot be done via OBD. The ECU is removed from the vehicle and connected to the KESS3 via Edge Connector, directly onto the ECU pins. A full read can then be extracted and sent for analysis. Bench reading is also known as Service Mode – see example videos here and here.

Q: How many cars can be read fully via OBD?

A: Approximately 60%, with the remainder requiring a bench read should you need to analyse the file; or a virtual read if you only wish to obtain an original.

Q: How many cars in the UK have already been modified?

A: It is impossible to give an accurate figure on this, but engine remapping has been taking place since ECUs first appeared in passenger vehicles in the early 80s. Originally a source of engine tuning, the remapping industry has adapted so that troublesome systems can be bypassed  – either because it is a cheaper option for owners, or due to supply-chain issues which has seen a large number of vehicles become unrepairable thanks to a lack of replacement parts.

We estimate that around one thousand cars are remapped on a daily basis in the UK.

Q: What proportion of vehicles are you able to read?

A: We can get a read from just about any UK or European ECU up to 2020. After that date the amount diminishes whilst we continue with development on the latest ECU coding.

Q: Is there a specific brand of vehicle that most often has had DTC fault codes hidden?

A: No, the issue is across the board of vehicle manufacturers; however, diesel vehicles are more likely to have been modified and had codes hidden than petrol, though not exclusively.

Q: Are you able to add further modifications to a vehicle that has already been remapped?

A: No, the only service we offer is as presented on this website: analysis of an ECU’s current state, and the provision of an original calibration file if required.