Encountering error codes while flashing a tune can be daunting, but there’s no need to stress! These codes can often be triggered by something as simple as leaving the ignition off. While EFI Live provides generic repair suggestions, these can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the device or tuning. That’s where we come in.
Below, we’ve translated the most frequently encountered EFI error codes into plain English and provided practical fixes.
Latest CUMMINS INSITE V9.0.0 PRO 2024.04 Diagnosis Software
The Codes:
$0101 No data received
Cause: Autocal connection issue to the computer. Possible cord or USB port issue.
Fix: Ensure a secure connection between Autocal and the computer. Try a different cord or USB port.
$0281 No data received
Cause: FlashScan or AutoCal didn’t receive valid data from the vehicle. Possible ignition off, ECM issue, or bypass cable not installed on 18+ Cummins.
Fix: Check all cables and connections. Ensure the ignition is in the run position. For 18+ Cummins, install the bypass cable or swap the yellow and brown leads on the cable.
$0331 Request Out of Range
Cause: The controller doesn’t support the requested OBD mode’s parameter. Seen on CMF (19-21 Cummins).
Fix: Turn the key on, remove fuses 49 and 51 under the hood, and begin the flash. Reinstall the fuses once completed.
$0333 Security Access Denied
Cause: Controller not unlocked or re-armed itself, or a Dodge Cummins 2018+ has a CAN Security Gateway Module (SGM).
Fix: For V8 pass-thru reading/flashing, select “Assume Lock may be Faulty” and “Try Alt Keys.” Ensure the SGM is bypassed. Try swapping the pins on the OBD connector from the bypass cable.
$0502 Script file not found
Cause: The script (*.obj) file is missing on the device.
Fix: Ensure the correct controller type is selected/programmed in the BBX configuration. Reinstall or repair-install EFILive V8 software, then reprogram the BBX configuration using [F5: BBX]->[Program].
$0503 Script file not valid
Cause: The script (*.obj) file is corrupt.
Fix: Reinstall or repair-install EFILive V8 software, then click [Check Firmware] in the V8 Scan and Tune window and perform any updates.
$0531 Serial number security restriction mismatch
Cause: The tune file’s security settings specify a different controller serial number.
Fix: Contact the tune file author for a compatible file. Common with Cummins controllers when the ECM serial number is incorrectly noted.
$0532 Controller not licensed
Cause: Attempted to program an unlicensed controller.
Fix: Activate the VIN license before programming. Follow on-screen prompts via FlashScan or AutoCal.
$0533 No VIN license slots available
Cause: No free VIN license slots for the controller.
Fix: Purchase additional VIN license slots from EFILive’s online store. Ensure the VIN license is activated with the code from DDC.
$0535 AutoCal not linked to FlashScan
Cause: Attempted to program with an unlinked AutoCal device.
Fix: Contact DDC for link codes.
$0536 Tune file not registered to AutoCal device
Cause: Tune file not linked to the AutoCal device.
Fix: Verify the correct AutoCal SN and contact DDC if the issue persists.
$0537 Controller locked with a custom key
Cause: Controller cannot be unlocked with standard GM keys.
Fix: Use the known key to unlock the controller using EFILive software. Ensure no aftermarket devices are tapping into OBD wires.
$053C Tune file does not allow calibration flashing
Cause: Tune file flagged to prevent calibration flashing.
Fix: Perform a full-flash as required by the file.
$053E VIN security restriction mismatch
Cause: The tune file’s VIN pattern doesn’t match the controller’s VIN.
Fix: Confirm the VIN provided. The ECM might have a different VIN if replaced. Read OBD details and verify with DDC.
$0548 Flash checksum failed
Cause: Data programmed into the controller is corrupted.
Fix: Retry the flash procedure. If the issue persists, contact EFILive support.
$0549 Ignition is switched off
Cause: Ignition is off, often on 18+ Cummins trucks.
Fix: Ensure the ignition key is on. Install the bypass cable and try swapping wires on the back of the OBD connector if needed.
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