Tuning the BMW ZF Automatic Gearboxes with XHP Flashtool.

We are an authorized XHP Flashtool dealer and can offer three stages of tune for the ZF gearboxes, all set up slightly differently to suit different styles of driving.

The most popular upgrade for us at the moment is the Stage 3 tune on the BMW 335D – these cars are developing big power now, and were only available with the automatic gearbox. Being able to change that box from something designed for comfortable cruising to a responsive sporty setup makes all the difference for the guys who are using these cars on the track.

Stage 1 TCU Tune

• Optimised D Shiftpoints to facilitate sporty, yet economy style driving
• Optimised Shift Strategy for up/downhill driving
• Optimised Warmup Behaviour
• Optimised Torque Converter Lockup in 1st/2nd/3rd gear
• Adapted Torque Limits for Tuned engines
• Kickdown delete in Manual Mode
• Gear Display in Dash in D/S/M Modes

Stage 2 TCU Tune

• Optimised D & S Shiftpoints for better acceleration in part and full throttle situations
• Approx. 25% faster upshifts in D/S/M modes
• Faster paddle response time
• Optimised Torque Converter Lockup in 1st/2nd/3rd gear Optimised Warmup Behaviour
• Further increases in Torque Limits for tuned engines
• Kickdown delete in D and Manual modes
• Gear Display in Dash in D/S/M Modes

Stage 3 TCU Tune

• Optimised D & S Shiftpoints for better acceleration in part and full throttle situations
• Approx. 25% faster upshifts in D/S modes
• Approx. 50% faster upshifts in M mode
• Rev Matched downshifting (Throttle – Blip)
• True manual mode (no forced upshift at limiter)
• Instant paddle response time
• Optimized Torque Converter Lockup in 1st/2nd/3rd gear
• Optimized Warmup Behaviour
• Torque Limits set to 1000 Nm (737 ftlb)
• Kickdown delete in D/S/M
• Gear Display in Dash in D/S/M Modes

So how do you actually install the Tune?

We start off by connecting the car up to a battery stabiliser. This is very important as the TCU is sensitive to voltage drops when programming – a voltage drop can cause failure of the TCU unit, and leave the car undriveable.

We then connect to the car with the XHP software, and unlock the TCU for programming. At this point the car is then able to accept any of the OTS XHP maps.

With the correct map selected, we then begin the programming process. Start to finish, this takes around 30mins to do including all checks, so can be done whilst you wait.

EuroTorque Performance will not be held responsible for any damage to your vehicle, engine or gearbox as a result of modifications to the factory ECU’s engine or TCU parameters. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure their vehicle is in suitable condition and well maintained for any increases in power and torque. It is also highly recommended you use the highest available octane fuel available where possible. The use of incorrect octane fuel for what the vehicle has been tuned for may result in engine damage.