FYI
Just took my scooby in for service due to a cold engine start problem. The engine idle would be erratic and sometimes it wouldn't start at all. Service manager stated that the new firmware for the ECM that open up the various 'windows' for fuel trim, etc. He said what's happening is the engine is fighting itself and running lean then rich then repeat.
My dealer doesn't have the capability to reflash the ECM so its a two day process to mail it to Subaru >
flash it > then mail it back.
bloody ridiculous - I bet the code is 5k or less ..... but even if it were 5 meg why would dealers not be allowed to have and install it? Isn't that the point of dealers?
sigh
Well the ECM won't be back till Monday, in the meantime I've got a GMC Sonoma to drive that reeks of stale cigarette smoke, but I digress. The mechanic said that something to the effect of "there's so many inputs into the ECM that they're computer doesn't have that many inputs and can't do it." A confusing message as the mechanic apparently knows nothing about how the process works and being a Software Engineer myself I confused him more by injecting with how to flash a PROM. They have the equipment to do the H4 but not the H6 (which is apparently a very complex engine). I guess if they send it out in the morning they'll get it back before 4pm the next day but since they didn't send it out until after 2pm I have to wait to Monday, which I actually don't mind as now I don't have to get my H6 full of pine needles getting the Christmas tree this year.
He did mention a few times how much more complicated the H6 is with diagnostics and sensors. He lemented that he dreads the day he has to inspect a timing chain on a H6, 59 bolts (4 lengths) and 'Subaru Seal' holding the cover on, which spans the engine front of the engine.
Sounds like you need to find another mechanic...
-- Dominic Richens | snipped-for-privacy@alumni.uottawa.ca "If you're not *outraged*, you're not paying attention!"
But what a beautiful piece of machinery the H6 is. I love mine. And yes, that pretty much describes the timing chain cover. Good thing the chain is rated to last the 'life of the engine'. The service manuals do an excellent job of describing how everything works and what must be done. I was under mine the other day for the first time... the joint between the thermostat housing and the engine block was so smooth and tight, it almost looked like there was not a joint there at all! I was very impressed. John
But what a beautiful piece of machinery the H6 is. I love mine. And yes, that pretty much describes the timing chain cover. Good thing the chain is rated to last the 'life of the engine'. The service manuals do an excellent job of describing how everything works and what must be done. I was under mine the other day for the first time... the joint between the thermostat housing and the engine block was so smooth and tight, it almost looked like there was not a joint there at all! I was very impressed. John
Why the hell can't they send the dealer an ECM with the latest firmware, then have the dealer mail them yours as a replacement?
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