FAQ’s
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General Questions
What vehicles do you work on? I specialize in GM vehicles from 1998 through current models. This includes Corvettes, Camaros, Silverados, Trailblazers, Hummer H3, Colorado, and other GM platforms. If you have a specific vehicle, feel free to contact me to confirm compatibility.
Do I need to ship my ECU or vehicle to you? For most tuning services, you can mail your ECU or buy amodule directly to me. I'll program it and ship it back, usually within 1-2 business days. For custom tuning that requires dyno time or road testing, local customers can bring their vehicles to my shop. Remote tuning is also available for some applications using HP Tuners.
How long does the turnaround time take? Most ECU and module programming services are completed within 1-2 business days of receiving your part. Custom tuning projects may take longer depending on the complexity and whether the vehicle needs to be present.
What information do you need from me? For programming services, I'll need your VIN, the type of service you need, and any specific requirements. For tuning, I'll also need details about modifications, fuel type, and your performance goals.
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ECU Tuning & Programming
What's the difference between tuning and programming? Programming refers to services like VIN changes, enabling or disabling features, and updating calibrations in your ECU or BCM. Tuning involves optimizing the calibration tables for performance, fuel economy, or to accommodate modifications like camshafts, headers, or forced induction.
Can you tune my stock vehicle? Yes! Even stock vehicles benefit from tuning. I can optimize your calibration for better fuel economy, throttle response, and transmission behavior while staying within safe parameters for your engine.
Will tuning void my warranty? Any modifications to your ECU can potentially affect warranty coverage. Most dealerships can detect that tuning has been performed. I recommend discussing this with your dealer if warranty coverage is a concern.
Can I return to stock calibration? Yes, I can provide you with your original stock file before any changes are made. You can reinstall it at any time if needed.
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Module Programming (BCM, EBCM, etc.)
What is BCM programming? BCM (Body Control Module) programming involves updating or reprogramming your vehicle's body control module. Common reasons include replacing a failed BCM, clearing TPMS or Passlock issues, or enabling/disabling features.
I'm swapping a used BCM into my vehicle. Can you help? Yes, I can reprogram a used BCM with your vehicle's VIN and clear any stored codes or security issues. This is much cheaper than buying a new module from the dealer.
What's involved in a VIN change? A VIN change updates the vehicle identification number stored in your ECU or other modules. This is commonly needed for engine swaps, ECU replacements, or when using a different ECU than what originally came in your vehicle.
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HP Tuners & Remote Tuning
Do you offer remote tuning? Yes, for customers with HP Tuners MPVI2/MPVI3 or similar equipment, I can provide remote tuning services. You'll data log your vehicle following my instructions, send me the logs, and I'll send back revised calibrations until we achieve your goals.
I have HP Tuners software. Can you just send me a tune file? I can provide custom calibration files for a fee. However, remote tuning with data logging typically produces better results since I can fine-tune based on how your specific vehicle responds.
What modifications require a retune? Camshaft swaps, cylinder head changes, forced induction (turbo/supercharger), significant intake or exhaust modifications, fuel system changes, and transmission swaps typically require retuning to run properly.
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Pricing & Payment
How much do your services cost? Pricing varies depending on the service. Contact me with your specific vehicle and needs for an accurate quote. Common services like VIN changes and BCM programming have fixed rates, while custom tuning is quoted based on complexity.
What payment methods do you accept? I accept PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, and credit cards. Payment is typically required before I begin work or before shipping your programmed module back.
Do you offer refunds? Due to the nature of software and programming services, I don't offer refunds once work has been completed. However, I stand behind my work and will work with you to resolve any issues.
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Shipping & Logistics
How should I ship my ECU or module? Pack your module securely in bubble wrap or foam, use a sturdy box, and ship via USPS Priority Mail or UPS with tracking. I'll provide my shipping address when you place your order.
Do you ship internationally? We will ship anywhere that receives mail
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Why choose Ewalt's Auto Tuning?
I'm not just another tuning shop - I'm a specialist who focuses exclusively on GM platforms. I develop my own programming tools and software specifically for GM ECUs and modules, which means I understand these systems at a level most shops simply don't. When you work with me, you're getting someone who has personally tuned, tested, and troubleshot these exact platforms on real vehicles, not just someone reading from a generic tuning guide.
My background in custom tool development means I can handle unusual situations and specialized requests that other shops might turn away. I offer factory flashing services, custom performance tuning, and can program modules that dealerships often claim are "non-replaceable" - including Chevy Equinox ABS modules, BCMs, and PCMs. If a dealership told you a module can't be programmed or must be replaced with a brand new unit at dealer prices, chances are I can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars by programming it properly.
Whether it's programming a T87 ECU for a C7 Corvette swap, clearing Passlock issues on an H3 BCM, or optimizing VVT tables on a 4.2L Trailblazer, I've done the hands-on work to understand what actually works. I tune my own vehicles and use the same techniques on customer projects that I use on my own trucks.
You'll also get fast turnaround times - most programming services are completed within 1-2 business days - and direct communication with me throughout the process. No middlemen, no phone trees, just straightforward service from someone who genuinely enjoys working on GM performance and solving technical challenges.
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Can you program modules the dealer says are non-replaceable?
Yes! Many dealerships will tell you that certain modules like ABS controllers, BCMs, and PCMs are "non-serviceable" or "non-programmable" and can only be replaced with expensive new units. This is often not true - these modules can be programmed with the right tools and expertise.
I regularly program modules that dealerships claim must be replaced, including Chevy Equinox ABS modules, BCMs, and PCMs. This is especially common when you're trying to install a used module to save money, or when a module needs to be reprogrammed to match your vehicle's VIN and configuration.
Instead of paying $700-$2000+ for a new module from the dealer, you can often mail me your existing or a used module, and I'll program it for a fraction of that cost. This works for many GM vehicles and can save you significant money on what dealerships position as a "must replace" repair.
Contact me with your specific vehicle and module type, and I'll let you know if it's programmable.
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Still have questions?
Contact me at evan@ewaltsautotuning.com or Text 605-728-0591
