Will using the Bluefin handset cause my V.A.G ECU Flash Counter to be increased?
On later V.A.G applications the Engine Control Unit (ECU) contains an ECU ‘Flash counter’. This is essentially a number that is stored in the ECU and it can only be viewed by specifically looking for it within the ‘advanced data’ area of the ECU – when using suitable diagnostics equipment. As its name suggests the Flash Counter is increased each time the ECU is Flash programmed. There are various types of ECU used by V.A.G to cover all of their engine types, It is possible to reset the Flash Counter on Bosch MED9 ECU’s used on Turbo Charged Petrol applications such as the 2.0 TFSI engine. Other applications may have their flash count increased following a programming operation with the Bluefin. The message is sent from the bluefin handset to the to the ECU requesting a reset of the flash count, however it is not always successful in doing so on each ECU type. JKM have not heard of, or are aware of, an official ‘Flash Count log’ being kept by any of the Vehicle manufactures, However we
