ECM Reprogramming For INFINITI Vehicles (ITB00-005D)

Publication date: 2006-05-12
Reference number: ITB00-005D
Supersedes refnos: ITB00-005, ITB00-005A, ITB00-005B, ITB00-005C

ECM REPROGRAMMING FOR INFINITI VEHICLES

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): ITB00-005d, Date of Issue: May 12, 2006

INFINITI:	1999 Q45
CLASSIFICATION:	EC99-014d
APPLIED VEHICLES:	1999 Q45(FY33); All 2000 and later

NOTE: This amended version (ITB00-005d) updates the Service Procedure section of the bulletin. Please discard all previously released copies of ITB00-005.

SERVICE INFORMATION

In-vehicle ECM reprogramming is available to update the ECM on 1999 Q45, and all 2000 and later vehicles.
This reprogramming allows the vehicle ECM to be upgraded to the latest operating specifications without removal or replacement of the ECM.
When an ECM has been reprogrammed it will display a new P/N on the CONSULT-II screen.
NOTE: ECM reprogramming will not effect NATS.
ECM reprogramming requires the use of ASIST 8.0 or higher, and CONSULT-II with the ECU Reprogramming Software Card (orange color).
Use the Service Procedure steps to transfer ECM reprogramming data from the ASIST PC to CONSULT-II, and from CONSULT-II to the vehicle ECM.
Refer to the ECU Reprogramming Software Operations Manual (in ASIST) for additional information on using CONSULT-II for ECM reprogramming.

CAUTION:

An ECM should be reprogrammed only when required by a specific Infiniti Technical Bulletin, or as otherwise directed by Nissan North America.
The ECM can be permanently damaged if the reprogramming procedure is not followed exactly .
Do not disturb (don't touch) the vehicle, CONSULT-II, or the DLC-II cable while ECM reprogramming is in progress.
If the ECM is damaged, it must be replaced.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

NOTE: When ECM reprogramming is required to repair a vehicle, a Technical Service Bulletin will be issued.

ECM reprogramming involves two general steps:

Download (transfer) data from ASIST into CONSULT-II.
Download new data from CONSULT-II into the vehicle (Reprogram ECM).

Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, use CONSULT-II and the Diagnostic Card (red/white one) to retrieve any stored DTC(s). Additional repairs may be necessary if there are DTC(s) not associated with a Reprogramming bulletin. Refer to the appropriate TSB or Service Manual.

SETTING UP:

Install the Reprogramming Card into CONSULT-II.
- The Reprogramming Software Card is the "orange" Card.
- Use slot A-top slot (see Fig 1).
  
  Fig 1: Installing Reprogramming Card Into CONSULT-II
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Connect the AC power supply to CONSULT-II.
Connect CONSULT-II to the ASIST PC with the special Ethernet cable (P/N 02002554 is printed on the cable).
1. Connect one end to CONSULT-II at the "PC port".
2. Connect the other end to the ASIST PC at the "Ethernet card" connection port.
Confirm the CONSULT-II date and time are correctly set as follows:
(This is necessary to provide a valid print-out for warranty claims.)
1. With the Reprogramming card in slot A, turn "ON" CONSULT-II.
2. Touch [SUB MODE ].
3. Touch [SET DATE ] (see Fig 2).
  1. If the date is not correct, touch the [MONTH ], [DAY ] or [YEAR ] as needed. Then adjust it by using arrow keys. Once done, press [SAVE ], press [BACK ], and go to step D.
  2. If the date is OK, press [BACK ] and go to step D.
4. Touch [SET TIME ] (see Fig 2).
  1. If time is not correct, touch the [HOUR], [MINUTE] or [AM/PM ] as needed. Then adjust it by using arrow keys. Once done, press [SAVE ], press [BACK ] and go to step 6.
  2. If time is OK, press [BACK ] and go to step 6.
    
    Fig 2: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Set Time
    Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Set the Ethernet (IP) Address between the ASIST PC and CONSULT-II as follows:
NOTE: If your ASIST terminal has been used to perform ECM Reprogramming before, you may skip steps "A" through " J" below and proceed to step 6.

If you are unsure whether your ASIST terminal has been already set up for ECM Reprogramming, proceed to step "A" below.
1. On the ASIST PC, click "START", "PROGRAMS" and "MS-DOS" .
2. When the MS-DOS Prompt window appears, after C:\WINDOWS > type: winipcfg (see Fig 3).
  
  Fig 3: CONSULT-II Screen Display - MS-DOS Prompt
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
3. Click "ENTER" . The "IP Configuration" window will display the IP Address and Subnet Mask (see Fig 4).
4. On CONSULT-II touch [SUB MODE ], then touch [CONFIGURE ETHERNET ].
5. Compare the IP Address on the ASIST PC with the Address on the Configure Ethernet screen of CONSULT-II.
  - If the first three sets of numbers of the CONSULT-II Address match the IP Address on the ASIST PC (as noted in step 5 C above) proceed with step 4 I below.
  - If the first three sets of numbers of the CONSULT-II Address do not match the IP Address on the ASIST PC, proceed with step 5F below.
6. Touch the Address number on the CONSULT-II screen (titled "Configure Ethernet"). A numeric keypad will appear (see Fig 5).
  NOTE: The IP Address for the ASIST PC you are working on will be different from the Address shown in Fig 5.
7. Use the key pad to set the CONSULT-II Address to match the ASIST PC IP Address with the exception that the CONSULT-II Address number ends with 176 .
8. Touch [SAVE ] and then press [COPY ] to print the Address for future reference.
9. Turn off CONSULT-II to allow the new Address to be saved in memory.
10. On the ASIST PC close the "IP Configuration" window, close the "MS-DOS Prompt" window, then proceed with step 5, next page.
DOWNLOAD (TRANSFER) DATA FROM ASIST INTO CONSULT-II
From the ASIST PC main menu screen, select "CONSULT UTILITIES" (see Fig 6).

Fig 6: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Consult Utilities
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
From the "CONSULT UTILITIES" screen, select "ECM / TCM DATA" (see Fig 7).

Fig 7: CONSULT-II Screen Display - ECM / TCM DATA
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Select the "ECU REPROGRAMMING DATA" (see Fig 8) as follows:

Fig 8: CONSULT-II Screen Display - ECU Reprogramming Data
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
1. Select vehicle model and model year.
2. Select the correct reprogramming data:
  1. Locate the specific "Model Configuration" (Example: VQ35 4A/T ASCD).
    NOTE:
    Model Configuration may include items like engine type, transmission type, and vehicle options such as ASCD, TCS, ABS, etc.
    
    Vehicle configuration can be verified using the "Current ECM P/N" chart. This will be shown in the TSB that told you to reprogram the ECM.
  2. Select (click on) the "To" number.
    NOTE: The "To" number reads: 23710-XXXXX.
  3. Write the "To" number on the Repair Order. You will need it later in the reprogramming process.
3. Click on the "Add" button to add data to the "File(s) selected" list on the right side of the screen.
4. Click the "CONTINUE" button to proceed with CONSULT-II setup.
8. Turn "ON" CONSULT-II as shown in Fig 9.

Fig 9: Turning On CONSULT-II
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Select [Transfer files via LAN ] (see Fig 10).
NOTE: If you accidentally choose a menu option other than "Transfer Files via LAN" turn CONSULT-II "OFF", and then back "ON" as shown in Fig 9 above.

Fig 10: Selecting Transfer Files Via LAN
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Set the CONSULT-II unit down for now and go to your ASIST PC.
Transfer (download) data from ASIST into CONSULT-II.
1. On the ASIST screen, click on "Transfer" (see Fig 11).
  
  Fig 11: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Transfer (Download) Data
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
  - Data transfer will take about 15 seconds per file.
  - Transfer progress is displayed on the ASIST screen (see Fig 11).
2. Wait until the data transfer is complete (see CAUTION below).
  CAUTION:
  DO NOT DISCONNECT THE ETHERNET CABLE UNTIL "COMPLETE" IS DISPLAYED AS SHOWN IN Fig 12 .
  - If the cable is disconnected before "Complete" is displayed, you MUST restart the transfer (download) procedure; otherwise ECM damage can occur.
  - If the cable is disconnected during the transfer; wait for ASIST to display an "error" message, then click on "OK". Select "Backup", then return to step 7.
  Fig 12: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Transfer Complete
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
When transfer is complete (see Fig 12):
1. Select (click on) "Okay" , then "MAIN MENU" .
2. Turn "OFF" CONSULT-II.
3. Disconnect the AC power cord and the Ethernet cable from CONSULT-II.
DOWNLOAD NEW DATA FROM CONSULT-II INTO THE VEHICLE (REPROGRAM ECM)

CAUTION: Perform this operation in four (4) sections. DO NOT SKIP any of these sections. They must be performed in order, 1 through 4.
- Section 1: Connect a battery charger and CONSULT-II to the vehicle.
- Section 2: Confirm the vehicle battery voltage and CONSULT-II "Charger Input".
- Section 3: Perform ECM Reprogramming.
- Section 4: Perform ECM Reprogram Confirmation.
Section 1: Connect a battery charger and CONSULT-II to the vehicle.
Confirm the ignition switch is "OFF".
Connect a battery charger to the vehicle battery.
1. Set the charger at a low charge rate (trickle charge).
  IMPORTANT:
  Do not perform ECU reprogramming without connecting a battery charger to the vehicle's battery. Permanent ECU damage can occur.
  Connecting a vehicle battery charger will maintain:
  - Proper CONSULT-II power supply during reprogramming-very important if the CONSULT-II battery is low.
  - Vehicle battery voltage level-especially on late model vehicles where the cooling fans come on during reprogramming.
Connect CONSULT-II to the vehicle using the DLC-II cable with black Converter Box (see Fig 13).
VERY IMPORTANT:
- Make sure the DLC-II is straight and fully plugged in to the vehicle.
- Make sure all other DLC-II cable connections shown in Fig 13 are connected properly.
  
  Fig 13: Identifying DLC-II Cable Connections
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
CAUTION:
- Infiniti requires the use of essential tools shown in Fig 13 when performing ECM reprogramming.
- J44200-10 "Pigtail" should not be removed from the CONSULT-II DDL Port. This "Pigtail" allows use of the stronger "quick disconnect" cable set.
- If cables are very often changed at the DDL Port (base) of the CONSULT-II unit, cable connector pin damage may result.
- If there is connector pin damage, ECM reprogramming may fail. Permanent ECU damage can occur.
Turn "ON" the ignition switch (do not start the engine).
- CONSULT-II will turn "ON" automatically (see Fig 14).
- Confirm that all electrical loads" (except for the ignition) are "OFF ".
  * Headlights, defroster, A/C, Audio (radio), and cellular telephone, etc.
  
  Fig 14: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Electrical Control Unit Reprogramming
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Roll down the driver's window part way, exit the vehicle, close the door, and hang the CONSULT II unit on the outside of the window (see Fig 15).
- This step is necessary to ensure the CONSULT-II and DLC-II cable will not be disturbed during reprogramming.
CAUTION: DO NOT connect the CONSULT-II AC power supply for Steps 18, 19 and 20.

Fig 15: Hanging CONSULT-II Unit On Outside Of Window
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

Section 2: Confirm the vehicle's battery voltage and CONSULT-II "Charger Input"
Press [SUB MODE ] (see Fig 14) then:
1. Press [DOWN ] 4 times.
2. Select [BATTERY CHARGE ].
Check the CONSULT-II's "Charger Input" reading (see Fig 16).

Fig 16: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Battery Voltage
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
NOTE:
- "Battery Voltage" is the voltage level of CONSULT-II's battery.
- "Charger Input" is the voltage level of the vehicle's battery. (It must be above 12 volts.) .
The "Charger Input" reading MUST be above 12 volts (see Fig 16).
- A reading above 12 volts confirms;
  1. The DLC-II is properly connected to the vehicle,
  2. The vehicle battery voltage is sufficient for ECM reprogramming, and
  3. CONSULT-II has a sufficient power supply to perform ECM reprogramming.
- If the vehicle's battery voltage ("Charger Input") is below 12 volts, one or more of the following may be the cause:
  1. The battery charger you hooked up in section 1 is not charging the battery (poor connection or it is not working).
  2. The DLC-II does not have a good connection to the vehicle (not straight).
  3. The DLC-II cable may have a malfunction (damaged wire or pins).
  4. The CONSULT-II Converter (J44200-50 / black box) is not working correctly (see Fig 13).
  CAUTION:
  - Do not attempt ECU reprogramming if the vehicle's battery voltage is below 12 volts.
  - Permanent ECU damage can occur if the vehicle battery does not maintain the minimum voltage during ECU reprogramming.
  If "Charger Input" is above 12 volts, power from the vehicle battery will keep CONSULT-II's power supply at the correct level during reprogramming.
  (see Fig 16).
Section 3: Perform ECM Reprogramming
Press [INITIATE ECU REPROGRAM ], then
1. Press [ECM ]
2. Review the precaution
3. Press [NEXT ]
  (see Fig 17)
  
  Fig 17: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Initiate ECU Reprogram
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Press [CHECK ECM P/N ] to "confirm" (take note of) the current ECM part number (see Fig 18).
NOTE: This is the vehicle's ECM part number BEFORE reprogramming.

Fig 18: CONSULT-II Screen Display - ECM Reprogramming ID
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Press [COPY ] to print the current ECM part number for future reference.
Press [BACK ] to return to the main menu.
Select the ECM program to install (see Fig 19).

Fig 19: CONSULT-II Screen Display - ECM Program

Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

The "REPROGRAM START" window should appear (see Fig 20).
NOTE: If you get an error message, refer to the ECU Reprogramming Software Operations Manual.

Fig 20: CONSULT-II Screen Display - Reprogram Start
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

CAUTION DURING REPROGRAMMING:
- Do not unplug CONSULT-II from the vehicle during reprogramming. Permanent ECM damage can occur.
- Do not open any door or the trunk during reprogramming.
- On some vehicles, the cooling fans may come on during reprogramming. This is a normal condition. Do not disconnect the cooling fans. Forgetting to reconnect them may cause severe engine damage. A vehicle battery charger is needed* to maintain the battery voltage level during reprogramming.
  * You should have hooked up a battery charger in Section 1
Press [START ].
- After a few seconds, the window shown in Fig 21 will appear.
- CONSULT-II will now turn "OFF" its screen backlight.
- When the screen backlight goes "OFF", ECM reprogramming has started.
NOTE: This process will take from 10 to 20 minutes.

CAUTION: You must leave the vehicle, CONSULT-II, and the DLC-II cable "undisturbed" (don't touch) until reprogramming is complete.
NOTE:
If CONSULT-II gives you an error message "Unmatch of Vehicle Data" :
- You tried to reprogram with an incorrect data file, or
- You are trying to reprogram with a file that is already in the ECM.
When the Reprogramming is complete, CONSULT-II will "beep", turn the screen backlight back "ON" and automatically print out a report (see Fig 22).
- Remember it may take up to 20 minutes.
1. Attach the print-out to the repair order for future reference.
  
  Fig 22: CONSULT-II Screen Display - ECM Reprogramming
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
CAUTION:
If CONSULT-II prints "REPROGRAMMING UNEXPECTEDLY TERMINATED":
- The ECM has been permanently damaged and will require replacement.
- In this case, perform steps A through G
  Do not start the engine with the damaged ECM installed.
Press [END ] to return to the main menu.
Turn the ignition switch "OFF" and CONSULT-II "OFF".
Wait more than 10 seconds, then turn the ignition switch "ON" for 1 second. Then, turn the ignition switch "OFF" again for 10 seconds (see Fig 23 ) .
- This will reset ECM self learned Data.
  
  Fig 23: Identifying ECM Self Learned Data Blinking Pattern
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Section 4: Perform ECM Reprogram Confirmation.
Start the engine.
Check engine idle speed.
- If idle speed is too low, perform IAVL (Idle Air Volume Learning). See the appropriate Service Manual (ESM) for this procedure.
  NOTE: If the engine will not idle, hold the engine RPM at about 2000, then slowly bring it down to an idle. IAVL can now be performed.
Confirm the engine is operating normally.
Make sure the "Check Engine Light" (MIL) is not "ON".
- If necessary, use CONSULT-II and the Diagnostic Card (red/white one) to erase any DTC's that may have stored during the reprogramming procedure.

PROGRAMMING UNEXPECTEDLY TERMINATED

(See step 28 ):

The ECM has been permanently damaged and will require replacement.
Perform steps A through G below.
CAUTION: Do not start the engine with the damaged ECM installed.

Turn the ignition "OFF", turn CONSULT-II "OFF", and DISCONNECT THE NEGATIVE TERMINAL OF THE VEHICLE BATTERY.
Attach the CONSULT-II print-out to the repair order for future reference.
Replace the damaged ECM.
Reconnect the negative battery cable.
If the vehicle is equipped with NATS:
- Some models will require registration of the NATS keys.
- See the appropriate TSB(s) or Service Manual (ESM) for NATS information and key registration procedures.
Perform IAVL (Idle Air Volume Learning). See the appropriate Service Manual (ESM) for this procedure.
Check the new ECM's current P/N.
1. Make sure it is the latest (newest) P/N.
2. See step 22.
NOTE:
- A new ECM from the parts department may not have the newest program.
- If needed, return to step 5 of this procedure and reprogram the new ECM with the latest available P/N. Be careful to follow each step exactly as written.

For Those Who Are Experienced With ECU Reprogramming

ASIST 8.0 and later has some new advanced functions for selecting and downloading reprogramming data that are not covered in these instructions.
For information on these new functions and other ASIST 8.0 enhancements, see the article-"ASIST 8.0 Has Arrived"-in the July / August 2003 issue of TechTalk.