It all started with simple ignition modules, closely followed by the enigmatic ECU. Since then, OEMs have taken electronic control to the extreme. Modern vehicles commonly feature a slew of complex, electronic modules controlling the driveline, braking/stability systems, security systems, climate control – there are even controllers working the wipers (auto rain detect) and automatic headlight levelling.
As we all know, these control modules are prone to failure – with correct diagnosis and rectification being anything but straightforward. Launched in 1984, Injectronics have become the industry leader in the remanufacturing and repair of automotive electronic modules. The service is not only cost effective, it’s also fast and worry free thanks to their 12-month warranty, making the most viable option for many workshops.
Why new modules need programing
Control module programming is and will surely be the topic of conversation for the next decade or so, as many more electronic modules require specific programming. They’re programed with unique, VIN-specific data relating to the vehicle’s individual engine, transmission, driveline, safety, security, instrumentation, infotainment and comfort systems. Brand new modules have none of this information and require programming, often completed by an OEM diagnostic tool using a process called PassThru Programming. However, when a new module is introduced to a vehicle, if the components it operates, along with the other modules it links to do not all communicate correctly, new issues can emerge within seemingly unrelated systems.
Plug ‘n’ play convenience
Few workshops have the specialist diagnostic equipment to carry out the necessary reprograming. After replacing a faulty module with a new replacement – the vehicle still has to go to the dealer on the back of a truck. So is replacing a control module the only option?
In most cases, Injectronics are able to repair electronic control modules, without losing any VIN-specific or functional programming data and return it ready for re-installation. This means there’s little to no additional programing required, no need for specialised programing equipment, no need to download software from the internet and no need to send the customer’s vehicle off to the dealership.
When repair is not possible, Injectronics can typically ‘clone’ the original VIN-specific data and move it across to the replacement module. Injectronics really does provide a plug ‘n’ play solution.
The age problem
As vehicles get to the age where new, replacement modules are no longer available – or the dealer no longer caters to a vehicle, the ability to make these repairs and maintain original programming is vital – otherwise the vehicle essentially becomes a throw-away proposition. This was a prime motivation for Injectronics to heavily invest in developing the specialised equipment and expertise necessary to assess, repair and reprogram a myriad of automotive electronic modules.
Injectronics utilise their very own designed and built Virtual Automotive Simulator (VAS). With this sophisticated computerized testing station, there’s no probing of wiring looms or circuit boards, rather the VAS is able to run and verify a module’s every function. Which in turn enables repair technicians to quickly and confidently identify any operational faults, plus ensure the completed repair is ready to plug and play.
With their VAS machine, Injectronics are able to repeatedly cycle a suspect module to induce the intermittent fault to reveal itself. It’s also not uncommon for intermittent faults to only occur under certain temperature conditions. The engineers place modules in hot and cold conditions, while using the Virtual Automotive Simulator, to replicate both real-world operating conditions but also extreme temperatures.
800 and counting
Currently Injectronics lists over 800 different electronic control modules with an identified and proven repair procedure. As impressive as this number is, Injectronics are particularly proud of their ‘First Unit’ department. They’re constantly evaluating, decrypting and problem-solving new units to add to their database, which is why Injectronics encourages enquiries regarding units not listed on the website.
Injectronics has a new facility located at 19 Bell Avenue, Mount Wellington, Auckland. Visit
www.injectronics.co.nz to find products, technical information and resources, including common faults and items requiring testing. You can also register your repair at
www.injectronics.co.nz/register-a-repair. To speak to a friendly team member, call 0800 536 547.
