Chrysler Scan Tool Timeline: DRB3 - Star Scan - VCI Pod - Micropod2

This is a research result about “OBD 2 Chrysler Factory Scan Tools ” from a fellow professional and what he shared with all on the web. Thanks to Brin who has taken the time to do this.

Here are several parts included:

Part 1: Chrysler and Post OBD 2 and DRB 3

Part 2: Star Scan

Part 3: VCI Pod

Part 4: Micropod 2

Then a summary…

In detail…

Part 1: Chrysler and Post OBD 2 and DRB 3

Vehicles on the road today are mobile networks. Each vehicle system needs a computer or control module to manage and monitor that system. Often, these seemingly independent control modules depend on other control modules to function. They must be able to communicate with each other and they do so on a bus, otherwise known as a communication network. This is not a new concept, but every year more systems and modules are making their way onto vehicles. This is increasing the complexity of these vehicle networks. What does this mean for the general Independent, aftermarket, mechanical or collision repair business? It means that we should be considering factory scan tools (scan tools used in dealer franchise service departments) and service information if we truly want to be able to handle our vehicle mix in a thorough, efficient and profitable manner. I’m not suggesting that there isn’t a place for aftermarket scan tools or service information in our businesses. I’ve found that both are needed to increase the likelihood of knocking it out of the park on every job. I realize that there are a lot of different, successful business models out there. Not everyone of these business models can support a journey like this. When considering ROI, you might not think that it makes sense for you and your business. You might consider subletting some of those jobs out to other local businesses that have committed to making these investments. Often, this means a mobile diagnostics and programming company. In this series, we will cover the most popular vehicle manufacturers one at a time, providing the information that you’ll need to make an educated decision. So, sit back and relax. We’ve got this.

We have a lot of work cut out for us so where do we start first? I’ll give you a hint, this vehicle manufacturer has had 6 different factory scan tool interfaces and 5 different scan tool platforms in the past 14 years?

Yes, we’re going to start with Chrysler.

We’re going to start with Post OBD 2 and the DRB 3. The DRB 3 is a hand-held Chrysler factory scan tool for non-CAN Chrysler vehicles but also has non-CAN, Global, OBD 2 Scan Tool capabilities as well as an oscilloscope. Don’t expect much from the oscilloscope. Compared to modern oscilloscopes, I’d consider the scope in the DRB 3 more like a graphing voltmeter. The DRB 3 will never time out meaning that it does not require a subscription to function. You will, however need a Tech Authority Subscription to access and download the calibration files needed to program Non-CAN, Chrysler Modules. Super Cards were needed in early models (pre-98) and other special applications like Chrysler branded Mercedes or Mitsubishi products like the Mitsubishi based Stratus, the Mercedes based Chrysler Crossfire and the Mercedes based Dodge Sprinters. There were different Super Cards for each of these special applications. Super Cards were inserted into the lower section of the tool. Special adapters called Multiplexers and cables were needed for certain applications as well.

Part 2: Star Scan

Next on the list is the Star Scan. The Star Scan is a hand-held Scan tool. It was the first Chrysler factory scan tool used for CAN only vehicles. None of the scan tools used for CAN vehicles were backward compatible, meaning that they would not function on non-CAN vehicles with exception of the DRB 3 Emulator that was included with the first wiTECH application (We will touch on this later). This tool was pretty much obsolete when it hit the Market. It was very slow. It didn’t take long before the Hardware couldn’t keep up with updates. A subscription was not needed for this tool to function, but a subscription was needed for tool updates and a Tech Authority subscription was needed to access and download calibrations needed to program Can Chrysler vehicle modules. The Star Scan is no longer sold or supported.

The Star Mobile was Chrysler’s first Scan Tool Interface that was designed to be used with a laptop. The interface was the hardware that connected to the vehicles DLC (Data Link Connector) but you would need a laptop with the downloaded Star Mobile Desk Top Client software for the scan tool to function. The installation and update software were downloaded from a disc. The Star Mobile could also be used as a functional Interface for the first wiTECH application that would be released later (Discussed later).

Star Mobile Desk Top Client was the software used with the Star Mobile. This software was quickly replaced with the wiTECH Application called the wiTECH Desk Top Client. As mentioned earlier, the Star Mobile Interface could be used for the wiTECH application for most of the existence of wiTECH.

Part 3: VCI Pod

The wiTECH VCI Pod is an interface that came out at the same time as the wiTECH application. At one point, the only way to purchase the wiTECH was with a package that included with the special wiTECH gateway (Basically a router configured to be used with the VCI Pod and to link with Chrysler’s server, the mother ship). When Chrysler first launched the application, franchise new car dealers were told that there was a wiTECH install and support team that would have to set everything up. The franchise dealers were not to set anything up on their own. Often, those teams never came and finally, the franchise dealers installed the system themselves. This was about the time of the bail out and bankruptcy. For aftermarket service facilities, the wiTECH package was around $8,000.00 with a years’ worth of wiTECH licensing, support and programming capabilities. Sometime later, wiTECH decided to offer a more economical option that came with a less expensive router and support limited to email. This package was around $4000.00 and was called wiTech Lite. A DRB 3 emulator was included in the wiTECH application not long after wiTECH was released. This Emulator allowed the user to scan and program non-Can Chrysler’s through the wiTECH application. The DRB 3 Emulator was just that, an emulator and emulators are rarely as good as the real thing. Early on, the emulator was okay but did get better over time with updates.

Part 4: MicroPod 2

The wiTECH MicroPod II was the next generation in Chrysler factory scan tool interfaces. The MicroPod is a pocket-sized dongle that plugged into the vehicles DLC. A wiTECH subscriptions was needed to use the wiTECH application. This tool would time out and be unusable if the subscription lapses. If you had an original VCI Pod and the wiTech software from V13.03.38 or prior, and never updated it, the tool would never time out. You could use it as a stand-alone tool, meaning that you couldn’t get all the benefits from the application, and you couldn’t program. Before this update, the application could be used in an offline mode, allowing it to function without connecting to the wiTECH server and checking the pod for registration and account information. Again, this is stand-alone diagnostics only, you wouldn’t be able to program, you would be limited in application features and you would limit yourself to older models due to the older update.

Tech Authority is the aftermarket portal for accessing subscriptions needed to download Chrysler flash files for programming Chrysler’s modules regardless of what scan tool or programming device that you are using.

The MicroPod 2 was released for compatibility issues with certain models. A while later wiTECH 2 was released to reduce cybersecurity and theft issues with Chrysler vehicles. With the wiTECH 2 release there was news of a sundown or elimination of the original wiTECH application. The other fun fact, your MicroPod 2 had to have a serial number of WPS-31560 or above. Older MicroPods would not be compatible with wiTECH 2, meaning that some users had to buy, yet another scan tool interface for use with witech 2. If you had a Micropod with a serial number that would allow you to register the device for the witech 2 and you did, that device could never again be used with the original wiTech application. The sundowner mentioned above did take place late in 2017 but according to sources, the original wiTECH application is still available to dealer franchises due to wiTECH 2 not being 100% compatible with some older CAN platforms. The new wiTech 2 is a cloud-based application meaning that you will need access to the internet for the scan tool to function.

The DRB 3 emulator is not available in wiTECH 2, so as it stands, the aftermarket needs to buy the separate standalone DRB 3 emulator from Controller Technologies Corporation or find a used DRB 3 if they want Factory non-CAN Chrysler coverage.

DRB 3

• Non-CAN Chrysler vehicles.
• Full factory scan tool functions (Some special Super Cards, adapters and cables needed for some Chrysler branded Mercedes and Mitsubishi products).
• No longer sold, supported or serviced by formal vendors. There are very small companies that offer repairs, but parts are limited to old stock or parts used from non-functioning DRB 3 units.
• Chrysler module programming with a Tech Authority subscription

DRB 3 Emulator

• Controller Technologies Corporation DRB 3 is a stand-alone PC based scan tool. We are not referring to the DRB 3 Emulator that was included with wiTECh. This is the only legitimate option when looking for Factory coverage on non-CAN Chrysler vehicles. Keep in mind, that emulators are rarely 100% effective at emulating what they are designed to emulate. The DRB 3 is no exception, although, according to AE Tools, a distributor and support company for factory scan tools, the Controller Technologies Corporation DRB 3 is more capable of handling some of the oddball early CAN PCI Hybrid vehicles that were released during the early stages of the CAN protocol. In this way, it might be superior to the original DRB 3.
• Nearly full factory scan tool coverage. This emulator has the same exceptions as the DRB 3 regarding Chrysler branded Mercedes and Mitsubishi products but a PC Based DRB 3 Multiplexer is available for Crossfire and Sprinter applications.
• The kit comes with non-powertrain ECU calibration files for programming body and chassis modules without the need for a Tech Authority Subscription.
• Powertrain programming available with a Tech Authority subscription.

wiTECH 2 and the MicroPod 2

• Full factory scan tool functions with full programming capabilities on CAN compliant Chryslers.
• A wiTECH 2 subscription will be needed for scan tool function.
• wiTECH 2 subscriptions are available in three different terms:

 3-day subscription is $50.00,

 30-day subscription is $200.00

 365-day subscription is $1600.00

• Cloud/Internet based so an internet access is needed for the application to function.
• A Tech Authority subscription is needed for programming. You will need to have an active wiTECH 2 subscription as well.
• Tech Authority subscriptions are available in eight different terms. 1-day subscription is $24.95, a 3-day subscription is $35.00, a 7-day subscription is $70.00, a 30 day subscription is $250.00, a 3 month subscription is $600.00, a 6 month subscription is $1000.00, a 1 year subscription is $1800.00.

See attached for vehicle to diagnostic tool reference chart

Here is the link needed to set up a wiTECH account:

am-prod-02-submgr​.​am​.​fcawitech​.​com/login​.​htm

Here is the link for the site to purchase Tech Authority subscriptions:

techauthority​.​com/en-us/products…

To recap,

If you find that you need Non-Can Chrysler coverage, you might consider buying a Controller Technologies Corporation DRB 3 Emulator. Normally I would say that it would be best to buy the Genuine DRB 3 but they’re only available used at this point and they are very expensive. You can expect to invest $2200-$3000 on a functional used DRB 3. A significant risk on a used tool that might not be repairable if needed.

For full factory diagnostic and programming capabilities on CAN Fiat/Chrysler automobiles, it’s very clear that you’ll need a MicroPod 2 with a serial number WSP-31560 or higher, a wiTECH subscription and a Tech Authority subscription for programming.

If you just look for a decent tool for Chrysler and don’t care it’s original or copy, the lowest cost is to get a decent Micropod 2 china clone with wiTECH 2 subscriptions (DO CONFIRM ITS FUNCTIONALITY! A good one should be like: http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/witech-micropod-2-diagnosis-programming-for-chrysler.html)

On a side note, please let me know if I need to add or correct anything.

http://blog.obdii365.com/2019/06/19/chrysler-factory-scan-tool-timeline-drb3-star-scan-vci-pod-micropod-ii/

witech Micropod2 Clone Dodge Review: Website, Tests, Pros & Cons

Here is all my ideas of witech Micropod2 Clone before and after purchase. Have posted in dodge-dart forum.

Now, i’d like to do collected and share with more fellows. Hope it’s helpful

Before purchase:

Though I haven’t tried it personally the flash files can be downloaded with a techauthority subscription. I believe car manufacturers are required by law to make them downloadable.

Emissions related controllers can be flashed with J2534 programmer

Supposedly all flashes can be done with a witech micropod clone (and the oem witech micropod obviously)

I’ve looked at a lot of the aftermarket tools and they are all far more expensive than the clone and probably don’t have the same Chrysler coverage as the witech micropod.

Link to purchase:

I just ordered one… used the link: http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/witech-micropod-2-diagnosis-programming-for-chrysler.html

Will let everyone know how it works out.

Shipping:

Will let everyone know in a few days – just got a shipment notification.

Cars to test:

I have a 2015 WK 3.6L (wife) and a 2015 DS 5.7L (me).

I’ll let you know how it works on the 2015 model years. I looked at autoenginuity but it got mixed reviews and looking at the screenshots on their website, the UI seemed weird.

Plus, with the Chrysler add-ons, it is twice the price of the witech clone. I’ll be happy if I just get full Chrysler OBD 2 sensor monitoring plus a few misc tests. I can handle paying the dealer for flashes if I must

Package received:

Ok, so here’s an update… the kit shipped directly from China and arrived in a few days. The Micropod clone itself appears to be reasonably high quality but there are obvious differences from the OEM version: no lanyard, no wi-fi, no metal clip on the OBD 2 connector, etc. The firmware that mine came with was v2.4.1.

wiTECH software:

I followed the directions that came with the kit (albeit in somewhat fractured English) and upon starting the wiTECH software, I got a “device with serial number XXX-XXXXX is not registered” error message.

The company that sold it to me said the copy of wiTECH was destroyed somehow and that I needed to buy a “wiTECH hdd” from them for a small additional fee. Not entirely sure what that would be but I worked around the problem before I got their reply. Long story short, I am a computer guy so I spent a couple of hours messing around with the software and the computer it was installed on and was able to get around the issue.

Did on cars 2015 DS & WK:

I connected it to my 2015 DS and my wife’s 2015 WK with no issues. I disabled the side view mirrortilt in reverse on her WK (only thing she didn’t like about it) and she was thrilled. There are functions to bleed ABS, program tire sizes, etc. There are literally hundreds of sensor readings, dozens of tests, actuators and misc functions that you can perform that seem to be very vehicle specific – which you would expect. Every switch/gadget in the vehicle seems to have a corresponding sensor reading of some kind in the software. The only odd behavior I saw was when I connected to the ABS computer of my DS… the EVIC freaked out and started screaming to service the ABS. Maybe that is a safety feature of some kind so folks don’t go driving while messing with the ABS computer? Powering the vehicle off and on again made the ABS warning go away. I could not find any “PROXI alignment” functions – maybe they don’t apply to my vehicles?

I did not try flashing anything as I don’t have a good enough reason to sign up for a time-limited TechAuthority subscription at the moment but next time I do, I’ll give it a shot. At the very least, it will be nice to be able to go to the dealer next time and tell THEM which modules need updating (wiTECH lets you print an ECU report) because whatever point-of-sale software the advisors use doesn’t always tell them when an update is available. For example, my PCM is on an AE revision but TechAuthority said that AF is available (and has been since before my last dealer visit)

Summary:

This was $169 well spent in my eyes.

On a side note:

I’ve done a considerable amount of research on this software and it appears that as of the 17.04.27 P4 patch level, the wiTECH 1.0 system has been EOL’ed for all CAN bus vehicles – forcing you to use the 100% web-based wiTECH 2.0.

If you decide to move forward with the Micropod clone, you will need to block the P4 update (or find a way to block the “diagnostic.js” file that does the check) or the software will kick you out seconds after opening the vehicle topography.

Once the update is blocked, it works fine – confirmed up to the 2015 MY.

How to Choose a Decent wiTech Micropod 2 China Clone?

What's the main difference of Micropod 2 china clones? Why do many go for SP271-C1?Look here: Micropod 2 good vs. bad china clone

	Micropod 2 High-quality China clone (SP271-C1)		Micropod 2 Bad clone
Outlook		Original HQ connector can perfectly match with the obd port on the car. Made of special engineering plastics, it's resistant to common automotive chemicals and has high impact resistance. Tin-plated metal tables ensure that the connector looks in place during use, providing complete error-free data transmission. It features unparalleled quality, reliability  and durability. The outer casing is made with highly durable ABS plastic molded with integral clip fastening, and internally molded with plastic support for safe protection of the internal circuit board.		The bad china clones look rough, ungly. Plastic for molded connectors is fragile. And easy to react with many common chemicals, with poor reliability and durability.
Inner parts		Taiwan MILL plate, excellent workmanship, quality and reliable all the original components consistent with the perfect one to one program		Rough work, welding rough, domestic components, some of the missing parts (illustration only part of the example)
Connection		Customization USB cable The high-quality wire ensures data transmission stability, accurate and reliable test results		Same as ordinary USB cables in the market
Package		Using anti-static packing, moisture, anti-static and anti-external electromagnetic interference. Protect the equipment from potential hazards. To ensure that customers receive a good and new tool.		Ordinary carton
Software		The latest version: 17.04.27 witech The software is sustainable synchronization updates, programmable, networkable, to ensure tests on the latest models.		The bad clone only work with the version 14 and not able to update to the latest and cannot work with network connected. Nonsense: The new version requires an account! CANNOT do programming! Programming requires network connection, but the bad clone can not be used online.
Warranty		Support replacement for non-human damage. It's not for the cover change, but a real change for a new circuit board.		Unable to get a new one if yours is damaged for a non-human reason.

Micropod 2 hq vs. bad china clone:

Why do you buy Micropod 2 clone off obdii365.com:

What you will get if you place an order at obdii365.com:
Micropod 2 of good quality and working witech to use with

source:  http://www.obdii365.com/wholesale/witech-micropod-2-diagnostic-programming-tool.html

Software Version: V17.04.27
Update: Support continuous update synchronously, offer new version download link for update
Programming: Require a dealer account (we do not offer dealer account)
Able to work online: Can connect to internet online
Vehicles: Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat
Languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese

Compared with Turkish version, Chinese version Micropod ii VCI Hightest:

1. Sustainable synchronization updates, can be networked, can work online with server
2. Original connector, perfect interface with car OBD
3. Software Version: V17.04.27
4. High-quality USB data cable, data transmission is stable and reliable
5. Anti-static packaging, moisture, anti-static, anti-electromagnetic interference
6. Within one year of non-human damage free replacement

Vehicle list:
For Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Fiat
Support For  chrysler and Fiat online programming.
(Note: Package with no fiat  software, Customers need have their own micro pod 2 fiat software so that can installation and programming
Newest Chrysler diagnostic equipment, can do diagnostic, programming (requires account number) and all other functions.

MADE BY MOPAR (CHRYSLER) and OEM, the microPOD II supports 100% of CAN Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Fiat (North America), including 2014 Ram ProMaster, and 95% of non-CAN.

The wiTECH diagnostic system is designed to work on Chrysler, Dodge,  Jeep, and North American Fiat vehicles equipped with CAN BUS technology.  It provides the latest technology and significant hardware and software  performance enhancements over the current StarSCAN and StarMOBILE  tools. This tool provides cutting edge technology will enable  technicians to increase their productivity and provide world-class  diagnostic services to your customers.  This tool is very easy to use  .The MicroPod 2 is a great OEM dealer diagnostic tool that will give you  full access to the vehicles that you are working on. This tool is the  Next Generation Chrysler Scan Tool for “CAN” Bus Models and is a direct  replacement for wiTECH VCI POD

Vehicle Application:
Chrysler latest diagnostic interface fits in your shirt pocket and provides 100% CAN coverage for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat.
Although small in stature, this dongle-style device offers 100 percent  CAN coverage for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Fiat vehicle platforms. This  is the same diagnostic and programming tool the dealerships are using.  It replaces your StarMobile, StarScan, and wi-TECH POD, and enables your technicians to increase their productivity and provide world-class  diagnostic services to your customers

Features:
Supports all the latest technologies and vehicle platforms, including  the latest Chrysler and Fiat Vehicles and new 2014 Dodge Ram ProMaster  and 2015 Jeep Renegade
Works as a direct replacement for the wiTECH pod
Works with your currect wiTECH software
No smart cables required
No drivers needed

Requirements:
Laptop with Windows 7 32-bit operating system or later
Screen resolution of 1920x1080 or greater

Specifics:
* PC-Based: Requires PC connection
* Model Year Coverage: 100% CAN equipped vehicle coverage to current
* PC Recommended: AE Tools i7 Durabook Custom Laptop
* A separate Tech Authority  Subscription is required to access to Module Re-Flash Programming, TSBs, wiring diagrams, and repair information.
* A separate Tech Authority  Subscription is required to access to Module Re-Flash Programming, TSBs, wiring diagrams, and repair information.

www.obdii365.com

Radio code Jeep grand Cherokee 2014 with Micropod2 Clone

Customer feedback today:
Radio code Jeep Grand Cherokee 2014, success.
I am using your wiTech Micropod2 clone interface.

Pictures attached:

How to reprogram Chrysler PCM witg DRB III?

Look here: Procedure in detail will be of interest to those contempating a PCM change

After reading this, it is obvious that PCMs can be reprogrammed.

I have flash DVD for the DRB III, hopefully I will get it and can then do programming on a “swap” system. Keeping my fingers crossed.
It is Chrysler’s new “policy”

Mopar® is currently phasing out pre-programmed PCMs for the vehicles listed. New
modules will no longer be pre-programmed when received from Mopar®. Replacement of
future PCMs will require programming utilizing the DRBIII and TechCONNECT. The PCM
will not operate the engine until it is programmed. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be
set – “not programmed”.

CAUTION: Extreme care must be taken when programming a calibration into a
generic PCM. Do not randomly select a calibration. Once a calibration is
selected and programmed, the controller cannot be reprogrammed to a
different calibration. The module can only be reprogrammed to a more
recent version of that calibration.

When flashing a 2002 – 2004 LH vehicle the BCM may need to be
disconnected if experiencing failures during the flash of the transmission
portion of the PCM. The BCM will need to be disconnected after the module
ID portion of the flash is complete. Before pressing Page Forward to begin
the flash of the PCM Turn the Key to the OFF position and disconnect the
BCM. Then turn the KEY to the RUN position and Press Page Forward to
begin the PCM flash session.

NOTE: If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash should be restarted and
then follow the directions on the DRBIII emulator.

Step 1. Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, remove any old flash reprogramming
files from the DRBIII memory. To clear the memory from the MAIN MENU power up
the DRBIII and then:
a. Simultaneously press the “MORE” and “YES” keys.
b. A screen will appear requesting a “COLD BOOT”.
c. Follow the on screen instructions by selecting the “F4” key.
d. When the DRB III® reboots to the MAIN MENU, proceed to Step 2.
NOTE: If your vehicle is a 2002 LH and the original PCM part number begins with 04
the technician should use the 2002 LH Part Number Reference chart above to
determine the corresponding “NEW” part number. This new number from the
chart should then be entered into the Tech tools application as the orginal
part number. If the original PCM number begins with 05 no change to the
flash selection process is required.

Step 2. With the ignition switch in the “RUN” position, determine the original part number of the
PCM currently in the vehicle. Using the DRBIII select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All (Except Below)”
d. “Engine”
e. “Module Display”
f. Record the first ten (10) characters of the “PCM part #” on the repair order for later
reference.
NOTE: If the PCM is not operational, the part number can be obtained from the label
on the old controller. If the label on the controller is not legible, proceed to
next step.

Step 3. Page back to the “Main Menu”

Step 4. Determine if the vehicle is equipped with SKIM. Using the DRB3 select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All”
d. “System Monitor”
e. “J1850 Module Scan”
f. Look for “SKIM” in the list of modules.

Step 5. If the vehicle is not equipped with SKIM then proceed to step 6. If the vehicle is
equipped with SKIM obtain the vehicle Personal Identification Number (PIN) before
continuing with step 6. This information is available from one of the following:
a. The original selling invoice.
b. The DealerCONNECT system under the “Sales” or “Parts” tabs – select “Key
Codes”.
c. By contacting the DaimlerChrysler Customer Assistance Center (DCCAC) at
1-800-992-1997.
CAUTION: Failure to install the SKIM pin number into the module after flashing the
PCM will cause a start and stall condition.

Step 6. Replace the PCM using the appropriate generic control module. Refer to the service
information available in TechCONNECT or the appropriate service manual in Section
8E, Electronic Control Modules, Powertrain Control Module, Removal/Installation.

Step 7. Open the hood, install a battery charger and verify battery state is above 11.5 volts.

Step 8. If the old “PCM part #” is known, proceed to step 14. If the old “PCM part #” is not
known, proceed to next step.

Step 9. On DealerCONNECT select the “Service” tab.

Step 10. Select “Vehicle Information Plus”.

Step 11. Manually enter the VIN and mileage and select “Enter”.

Step 12. Select the “Vehicle Option” tab.

Step 13. Under the “Vehicle Option” window, identify and record:
a. Engine.
b. Emissions (Federal or California).
c. Transmission (Automatic, 5-speed manual, etc.).

Step 14. Connect the DRBIII to TechCONNECT and the vehicle. Open TechTOOLS and
verify that the “DRBIII Status: Connected” message is in the upper right corner of the
TechTOOLS screen.

Step 15. TechTOOLS should automatically populate the VIN in the “Vehicle Criteria” area and
the available updates. If not, manually enter the VIN then TechTOOLS will populate
the available updates.
NOTE: Do NOT enter the generic controller part number in step 16a below.

Step 16. Determine the proper calibration:
a. If the old “PCM part #” is known, enter the part number of the old controller in the
“Parts Criteria” p/n window. Proceed to step 16.
b. If the old “PCM part #” is not known, select the correct calibration based on the
information that was recorded from “Vehicle Options” in step 13.

Step 17. Select the correct calibration.

Step 18. Select the “Download/Update” button.

Step 19. Monitor the “Flash Download/Update Progress” window on the TechCONNECT and
follow the instructions on TechCONNECT/DRBIII. When the flash process is
completed, proceed to next step.

Step 20. Enter the VIN in the PCM. Using the DRBIII select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All”
d. ”Engine”
e. “Miscellaneous”
f. “Check VIN”
g. If the vehicle is not equipped with SKIM proceed to step 20h. If the vehicle is
equipped with SKIM follow the directions on the DRBIII. When the VIN and SKIM
key has been programmed, proceed to step 20.
h. Enter the VIN as requested by the DRBIII.

Step 21. Update the PCM mileage. Using the DRBIII select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All (Except Below)”
d. “Engine”
e. “Miscellaneous”
f. “Check PCM Odometer”
g. “NO”
h. Enter the current odometer mileage and then press “Enter”.
-9- 18-006-04 REV. B
i. Cycle the ignition key to the OFF position and back to the ON position and then
press “Enter”.

Step 22. Proceed as follows:
a. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, proceed to step 24.
b. If the vehicle is equipped with a non-turbo engine and manual transmission, it is not
necessary to set the pinion factor. Proceed to step 24.
c. If the vehicle is equipped with a Turbo engine and manual transmission, proceed to
step 23.

Step 23. On vehicles equipped with a Turbo engine and manual transmission, set the Pinion
Factor. Using the DRB III select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All (Except Below)”
d. “Engine”
e. “Miscellaneous”
f. “Pinion Factor”
g. Select the correct tire size and then select “Page Back” to exit.
h. Proceed to step 24.

Step 24. On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, set the Pinion Factor. Using the
DRBIII select:
a. “DRBIII Standalone”
b. “1998 – 2004 Diagnostics”
c. “All (Except Below)”
d. “Transmission”
e. “Transmission Module”
f. “Miscellaneous”
g. “Pinion Factor”
h. Select the correct tire size and then select “Page Back” to exit.
i. Enter “Quick Learn” and then follow the instructions on the DRBIII.
NOTE: Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules
(TCM, BCM, MIC, SKIM, etc.) within the vehicle, if so equipped. Some DTC’s
may cause the MIL to illuminate. Check all modules using “Module Scan”,
record the DTC’s, and erase these DTC’s prior to returning the vehicle to the
customer. Erase any DTC’s in the PCM only after all other modules have had
their DTC’s erased.
NOTE: The following step is required by law.

Step 25. Type the necessary information on the “Authorized Modification Label” p/n
04275086AB and attach near the VECI label (Fig. 1).

You have to know: esp. for newbies

You’d better take a VCI Pod for use with DRB iii, NOT the clone Micropod 2 (even the high quality SP271-C1 cannot work good with DRB emulator. ) look here: http://blog.obdii365.com/2019/01/16/drb3-emulator-worked-with-micropod-2-or-vci-pod/ tested on 300M. VCI Pod says yes but Micropod2 clone cannot work….

DRB III Review on Chrysler 300M ABS Bleeding

Here’s something good i found when i bled ABD for my 300M. Very useful…. Hope it works for you guys also.

Complaints i posted in https://300mclub.org/forums/:

I noticed something with my car that I wanted to comment on since “testing” my ABS for the first time this season. After arriving to school just in time for a final I put my foot down hard on the brake while pulling into the gravel lot, which was frozen over just like a skating rink. As I fully anticipated the ABS came on and was effective. However, once I came to a complete stop the pedal went soft and I had to pump it 6 or 7 times before it firmed back up (no jokes please). I have noticed my brake pedal is a little softer than most other LH cars I have driven but I have never noticed variance like this after ABS braking. I am very familiar with braking using ABS in my car and I think this is something abnormal.

Tips I got from user97:

Did the fluid level drop — if it did, then you probably got a leak somewhere and air in the system.

If the fluid level is OK but pedal is softer after ABS engagement, there is a possibility that a valve in the ABS system did not close fully.

In order to provide anti-lock capability, ABS unit has the ability to isolate any wheel from the M/C pressure as well as relieve the pressure into a temporary storage (accumulator). The ABS pump then pumps the excess fluid back into the M/C (hence pedal pulsing).

There is a possibility that the valve on one wheel has not completely closed and allows bleeding into the “accumulator”. As ABS system is not engaged, the pump will not start to empty the accumulator. So you are basically compressing the accumulator spring before any significant brake action on that circuit would commence. Accumulator has a rather small volume, so it would reach capacity pretty quickly. I noticed that there is a significant amount of rust that builds up in the brake fluid as the lines rust from inside due to moisture accumulation. May be a flake of rust got stuck in the valve and provides a miniscule leak into accumulator. ABS monitors state of the valves — anything significant would trigger an ABS fault.

It might be something else, like M/C leaking internally past pistons. But on the off chance, I would exercise ABS a few more times. Valve action would most likely cure the issue if it is the problem.

Search on Youtube and there is some video that illustrates ABS HCU operation

(AFAIK, on our cars ABS controls rear wheels independently rather than as a pair).

Playing with DRB III, you discover how potent ABS system is. When running ABS HCU test, it instructs you to apply pressure to the brake (with engine off/booster bled). Then ABS valves open up, filling up accumulators. It is very impressive — pedal falls to the floor without any resistance. As the next stage of the test, it closes the valves and turns on the pump, which literally pumps the pedal back to the original state. While I knew how ABS worked in general terms, I never realized the degree to which ABS could potentially interfere with normal brake system. No wonder, the unit is designed to be so fail safe, as to prevent such failures (turns itself off at the slightest sign of trouble).

Normally, there should be no need to bleed ABS, as long as MC was never run dry, you should be OK. I would be careful about sucking fluid out of MC — a little is OK, just make sure that neither half gets empty to prevent air injection.

On a side note, for DRB iii, you’d better use VCI Pod, NOT the clone Micropod 2 (even the high quality SP271-C1 cannot work good with DRB emulator. ) look here: http://blog.obdii365.com/2019/01/16/drb3-emulator-worked-with-micropod-2-or-vci-pod/ tested on 300M. VCI Pod says yes but Micropod2 clone cannot work….

 http://www.obdii365.com

Program Dodge used ECM with wiTech Micropod2 clone

Witech Micropod II new test report from obdii365.com customer. 

 Amazing. I received the device in record time. I was nervous if this device will work to program an used ECM that I replaced from another Dodge to my Dodge. Purchased a subscription at Tech Authority, and this device showed that the ECM/TCM had new flash to be upgrade. At the beginning I had an error on my PC that this device did not support my car with the latest version 17.0.4 (something like that). I did uninstall the new software and installed the old 17.0.3 and worked. I did flash and reprogram with no issue at all, and bang the Dodge came alive with no problem. This device works like a charm.
Thank you again.