bootmod3 FAQ

Background, the boring stuff... :)

We've been working tirelessly since late 2015 to create a truly unique cloud based performance flash tuning platform offering benefits both end users and tuners in ways prior unimaginable!

Up until bootmod3 came into existence there were two popular ways of tuning the BMW F series, using a piggyback device to just add boost, and the other, by sending your ECU (DME) out for a one time flash to a tuner of your choice.

With a piggyback the end user has only partial control over boost but no direct control over any other critical engine parameters such as ignition timing, lambda targets, fuel pressure targets, torque/load targeting, throttle mapping, valve timing and duration, various torque and load limiters, among others.

The other option that existed prior to BM3 was a one-time flash offered by many tuners that doesn't offer any diagnostics, datalogging or map switching capability. If the end user wanted to customize their tune for different modifications, octane levels, go bigger turbos with a built motor, datalog how the car was running, to get the most performance out of their car there simply wasn't any way of doing so, UNTIL NOW :)

bootmod3 is a full custom tuning platform for the factory engine computer (DME) available for Windows, macOS and mobile apps for iOS and Android. Users can change their tunes through the OBD port in their own driveway using the web or mobile apps taking just seconds to do so.

What do I need from you to get this going?

Click on this link for instructions: How to install bootmod3 on your vehicle

Do you have a user manual?

Yes, here's a link to the bootmod3 user manual: bootmod3 User Manual

How do I reach Tech or Sales Support if I have an issue or need help?

Open a tech support ticket with us on our support website and one of our staff will reach out to you:

https://bootmod3.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portals

How does bootmod3 flash the car. Does it need internet?

bootmod3 is the first cloud based tuning platform. What this means is that we provide all the tools necessary to securely and most efficiently tune the car, through the Web, much like how you have your email with Google (Gmail) instead of hosting your own mail server. Data lives on our servers and the system provides enhanced features such as map editing and configuration, built-in custom tuning with tuners in our Tuner Directory without depending on emailing CSV files and map files back and forth. Tuners and end users can enjoy a high level of efficiency when custom tuning either on a local dyno or working with each other remotely.

Once a given version of a map is downloaded from the servers it can be flashed without internet access, similar to how Spotify for example works with music/songs.

Can I use bootmod3 with more than one car?

bootmod3 license applies to 1 vehicle (1 VIN). OBD Agent hardware device can be used on multiple cars.

Do I need to remove my DME and send it to you to unlock for programming?

In most cases this isn't required. There may be cases where the vehicle manufacturer releases a software update and changes the way unlocking the DME through OBD. The system will check support at the time of software license activation and our Tech Support team will advise if any special steps are needed at that time.

Do you have Authorized Dealer shops who can install this for me?

Absolutely. You can get in touch with any of our authorized dealers listed on our website and get bootmod3 installed. NOTE: Prior appointment scheduling is required. Labour cost install is to be inquired with the shop you're looking to work with.

OBD Agent not detected error, how do I resolve this connectivity issue?

Here's a link to instructions on how to troubleshoot your connection issue: OBD Agent Not Detected / VIN not detected

I see the Stock Tune under My Maps. How do I get a tune (OTS map) to flash on my car?

Go to the OTS Maps screen and click on the OTS Map you'd like to flash on your car and proceed with flashing. You can choose any of the OTS Maps available.

Any DYNO numbers or results?

You can view them on product pages on our website but results evolve and get better over time as well constantly. bootmod3 team strives for the best possible tunes all the time and updates are released for free. Many results on our instagram account @protuningfreaks but here are just some examples that have been posted in the past. Many are and have been added to our Instagram and Facebook accounts over time since:

bimmerpost.com, real world results/records listing:

http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1383036

S55 (M3 / M4):
Stage 1 93 octane: http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1297004
Stage 1 93 octane, comparison with JB4 on pump gas: http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1328339
Stage 2 93 octane: http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1320220
Stage 2 93 octane with OEM downpipes, comparison with JB4 : http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showpost.php?p=21434205&postcount=477
Stage 2 93 octane + Meth http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1435169
Stage 2 91oct + Custom 91 + Meth via BM3 by PaulJohnson https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1457078 
Stage 2 91oct  Pure Turbo’s https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1427209 
Stage 2 V3 https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1479021
Stock Turbo + Custom 93 and E85 Tune via BM3 http://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1479683
Pure Turbos - Full E85 Custom Tune via BM3 by Paul Johnson https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1446993 
Stock Turbo Full E85 Custom Tune via BM3  https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1444698 
Pure Turbos + Full E85 Custom Tune via BM3 by CaryTheLabelGuy  https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1471241

N55 EWG (235i / 335i / 435i / M2 / X4 M40i / X5 35i / 640/535):
M2 (N55 EWG) FBO + Pure Stage 2 on pump 93 octane: http://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1344711
M2 (N55 EWG) FBO, Stock Turbo on pump 91 octane: http://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1437086 
M2 (N55 EWG) FBO, Dinan Turbo http://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1454381
M2 (N55 EWG) FBO 91oct http://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1455188
M235i, Stock turbo, pump gas, stock intercooler, just downpipe+intake: http://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1331464
335i Stock turbo + meth (world record N55): http://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1336322
335i FBO+Meth on stock turbo: http://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?p=21017588
PWG 535 FBO+Pure Stage 2: http://f10.5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1433194

N55 EWG Stock, Stage 2 93, Stage 2 E30: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg_ag7eF85Q/

N55 PWG  Stage 2 93 octane: https://www.instagram.com/p/BhJjlnLlsQ1/

S63TU (M5 / M6 / X5M / X6M):
Stage 2 on 93 octane + downpipes: http://f10.m5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1337143

Can I run E85 or meth and do you have OTS maps for these?

Yes. We have E30 (30% ethanol) blend OTS maps available. Full E85 maps are custom and can be done with any of the tuners listed in our tuner directory.

How do I datalog and monitor how my car is doing?

Using the bootmod3 mobile app and agent running in the car while connected to the bootmod3 servers (cloud).

Do I need a laptop or bootmod3 hardware device always plugged in?

No. Agent that runs on a laptop or hardware WIFI device is only required to be used if using the bootmod3 app features. Otherwise, no need for anything to be plugged into the OBD port.

What's the difference between bootmod3 and JB4?

bootmod3 reprograms the vehicle's factory engine computer (DME) and in some cases other ECUs such as the transmission control unit (EGS/TCU). JB4 is a piggyback device. It is a boost controller with ability to run a methanol pump or secondary fuel injectors. TorqByte is another alternative as a meth controller, much more advanced and with finer control from the tuning point of view.

Can I tune my own car with bootmod3?

Yes! You can go into the Stock Tune and do 'Save As' another map so your stock tune stays in tact and you can start tuning it yourself or with your preferred tuner/shop.

YouTube is a great source of videos on bootmod3 including customer and tuner reviews.

Will this void my warranty?

As with any aftermarket hardware modification on the car or any tuning, there is a chance the dealer may refuse or void the drivetrain portion of your warranty. Many dealers are highly tolerant towards modifications and if you don't have one, find yourself a friendly Service Advisor ;)

Can I re-sell or transfer my license?

Yes. Bootmod3 is the only flash solution where the license can be resold and/or transferred to a new VIN when/if you decide to move on for any reason. Having re-sale value is a great advantage to choosing bootmod3 for your tuning which is NOT available with any other flash tune.

  • License transfer is restricted to the original order purchase and buyer. Transferred licenses cannot be transferred more than once.
  • Any previously purchased OTS maps and custom tunes by the original buyer are not transferrable due to map data incompatibilities between cars.
  • To transfer a license you need to get in touch with support@protuningfreaks.com with your original order number, existing VIN and the new VIN and the other person's email address to verify car being flashed back to the Stock TuneAND DME RELOCKED using bootmod3 interface.

FLASHING BACK TO STOCK AND LOCKING THE DME WITH ANY OTHER FLASH TOOLS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

For instructions on this click here: bootmod3 License transfer