JHM ECU - "Unable to communicate with the ECU"

B6/7 S4/RS4
#21

The encryption board was “completely trashed” in an attempt to keep the chip from unseating itself (which had happened to the previous owner at least once - resulting in a ‘repair’ so to speak).

As for giving it a work out - I just gave her a good wash after putting the front end all back together. I still need to get all the seams worked out as there are several bolts / screws missing that I’ve discovered - will be calling the local stealership to see if I can get replacements (most of the fender liner / bumper to fender hardware).

I’m just really happy to have it home - I do however hate the feeling of worry that is now sadly seated in the pit of my stomach…hopefully it will go away, skydiving season starts soon and that always helps.

#22

BWT is up near Boston, I’m East of Worcester

#23

Ouch, those encryption boards aren’t cheap. I was shocked to find out how much they spend on them, and then said, how the heck are you only selling the tune for $500!?!?! Hoping they get the flash server all set up this year to alleviate this cost/problem in the future. It’s also amazing how ignorant some people are and think chips are dated and subpar technology to a flashed ecu. Kinda comical to an extent, but I bet it hurts sales and possible distributor connections.

#24

Hey Guys I believe i am having the same issue and can use some guidance

My car will not start and i have no EPC or check engine light when i put the key to the on position. I have the original soldered in JHM chip and took the ecu out to inspect based on this thread.
I did not see any issues with the soldering but i took the chip out and reinstalled it, plugged in the ecu & it fired right up.
5 mins later i unplug the ECU to correctly reinstall everything, put the metal cover and screws in, install lid and wiper back and what not. Get in the car to drive home, no EPC light and car only cranks, will not fire.
I am sending the ECU out to JHM tomorrow but wanted to get your thoughts on what it can be to see if i can save some time and not have to leave my car at work any longer.

#25

Deffinitly send it in to jhm…jhm originally started having guys send in there ecu due to failed drivers in the ecu…this was unrelated to the chip uograde but jhm would change them. They were really good when my dumb ass fried my ecu and i know there have been a few people with ecu issues jhm or what ever else jhm sorted it out quick

#26

Awesome, it will be going out tomorrow Fedex overnight from NY
Is there a way for them to test that the actual ECU isnt “fried” with the immobilizer? I figured maybe it was a weak solder that i couldn’t see or maybe a relay but everything looked good as far as i could tell?
Maybe just a fluke that it started right after i reseated it?

#27

They should check it out for you on their work bench. Should.

#28

Yes they will likely test it on their bench. They have a number of ways to test them to find the issue.