MDARS ECU REPROGRAMMING PROCEDURE
NOTE: This procedure explains a generic reprogramming for all Electrical Control Units (ECU) such as PCM,
BCM, ESU, etc. Be aware that some sentences and screen images below mention a certain control unit such
as "PCM" or "BCM" as an example.
ATTENTION: READ ALL CAUTIONS AND NOTES BEFORE AND AFTER REPROGRAMMING!
CAUTION:
• A poor connection between the vehicle and M-MDS and/or low voltage may result in
abnormal termination and/or data corruption. A low battery voltage may cause a
reprogramming failure resulting in unexpected ECU replacement.
• Make sure that the following connections are firmly connected, then DO NOT touch the
VCM and DLC cable to prevent noise and a poor connection.
o Between the vehicle-side connector and the DLC cable
o Between the PC-side connector and the USB port of the PC
• Connect an AC adaptor to the PC in order to minimize any voltage fluctuation during
reprogramming. DO NOT use the vehicle battery as a power source for the PC.
• When reprogramming with MDARS, power consumption and voltage fluctuation are greater than
with IDS. Connect the DCA-8000PM Battery Management System and select Reflash Mode from
the Main screen to prevent low battery condition and minimize any voltage fluctuation, or
connect a battery charger (charge current:15-20A).
BEFORE REPROGRAMMING NOTE:
• Turn off all electrical loads, especially the A/C blower, audio system, rear defogger and headlights.
• Perform a self-test and verify no DTCs are stored. If any DTCs are stored, repair the concern and
delete the DTCs.
• Disconnect any aftermarket accessories (non-genuine Mazda accessories).
• Terminate all programs other than MDARS on the PC. Running other programs may interfere with the
MDARS performance, resulting in the PC freezing or other problems.
• Perform reprogramming with a proper internet connection. When using a wireless network, make sure
the connection is strong.
• Make sure to keep enough free space on the PC’s hard disc. Insufficient free space (less than 1 GB) may
result in the PC freezing during reprogramming.
1. Connect the M-MDS to the vehicle.
2. Launch the Mazda Diagnostic And Repair Software (MDARS).
3. Turn the ignition on, then click “Start”.
4. Select the “toolbox” tab.
5. Select Work Support group.
6. Select “Software update”, then click "Run".
7. Select the ECU to be reprogrammed.
NOTE: If the concerned ECU is not found, return to the Quick Check screen and click the refresh button. If
the concerned ECU is not displayed in the Quick Check screen, start a new MDARS session and try again.
8. Confirm the current and new software versions, then click “Next”.
NOTE: When reprogramming the BCM, two software versions will be shown.
9. Wait for the download, then click “Next”.
NOTE: When reprogramming the BCM, downloading will occur twice.
10. Read the screen instructions, then click “Next”.
11. Wait for the download, then click “Next”.
NOTE: When reprogramming the BCM, downloading will occur twice.
12. Read the screen instructions, then click “Next”.
13. Follow the instructions on the screen, then click “Next”.
14. Wait for the reprogramming to complete.
NOTE:
• The progress bar will stay at 90% for 30 seconds. This is not a failure.
• When reprogramming the BCM, this process will occur twice.
AFTER REPROGRAMMING
NOTE:
• Select “Vehicle History” under “Collect Diagnostic Information”, then click “Run”.
• Confirm the reprogramming on the screen and save the screen copy as a record.
• If DTC P2610:00 [PCM] (Internal failure of BCM) is stored, it cannot be cleared with MDARS while the
CHECK ENGINE warning light is ON.
o When performing any of the following service operations, some memories in the body control
module (BCM) may be reset, which the PCM identifies it as a failure, and then stores DTC
P2610:00. It is not a malfunction.
▪ Removal/reconnecting the battery terminal connections (battery deterioration)
▪ Removal/reconnecting the BCM terminal connections
▪ Various settings or reprogramming with MDARS, including setting/resetting
Communication restriction mode
▪ Reprogramming with MDRT3
o When DTC P2610:00 is stored, erase it using the following steps.
▪ 1. Start engine.
▪ 2. Stop engine.
▪ 3. Switch the ignition ON.
▪ 4. Clear the DTC with MDARS.
• If DTC P2610:00 is cleared, it is NOT a BCM malfunction.
• If DTC P2610:00 remains, diagnose according to the instructions on MGSS.
