Bought my first diesel truck the day before Thanksgiving. Been reading a lot on this board trying to learn a little.

Been reading about several owners having their trucks "reflashed" - my question is how did you know you needed this done.

Mine reads "CLEANING EXHAUST FILTER" continually during the cycle where as I have read that this changes if you have the most current reflash.

Any clarification would be appreciated.

 

The "flash" is a PCM (powertrain control module) update that basically is the computer software that runs the engine. The 6.4 is one of the engines in our modern era that is not capable of running without the aid of a computer. I think all this started with the space shuttle in the 80's. Was it not the first aircraft/vehicle that could not fly without computer assistance?

Anyway, I have not researched it yet but there should be a list of software versions somewhere and then we could match whatever version we currently run with which update is the most current.

Personally, my '08 was manufactured in 7/07 and ran the initial software in the PCM. A n update came out within the first year ('08) that changed the transmission shift patterns and also the regen cycle parameters. This version #2 is what I think you and I are both running and the word on the street is that version #3 is not desired. I don't know the specifics, folks just seem confused by it and don't like the changes. I won't get it unless I am forced to.

And you won't get a message or a check engine light warning you to update the PCM. You should not ever "need" to update or reflash unless major work is done on your motor and new electronics need the newer software.

 

Thanks for the heads up.

 

i would not update it to the current flash. That version could be found at motorcraft.com but you would have to take yours in to find your exact version.

the lastest has taken away the message cleaning exhaust filer. The ability of the message to stay on till complete.

I like the message to stay on myself and I have heard that the newer flash has a higher boost for the turbo's. Higher boost usually means for fuel being burnt.

Bottom line if it runs good then it isn't broke, don't try to fix it....drive the truck!