ECU vs. OBD tuning, does ECU method still work?

[aaexpert]

according to https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/threads/ota-update-wiped-tune.24092/ post in may 2024, a Ford update changed/disabled the SCT tunes and I never saw an "update" for SCT to work with the new PCM software. Now I'm seeing posts about Livernois users able to to updates but now it's done via obd2 and not the ECU under the hood. Anyone else using SCT and know if 1) there is a new update that works and 2) is it still done under the hood or obd?

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[trdtuner7]

I have a 22 and I still have to plug straight into the ECU. I know I can send my ECU to HP tuners and they can unlock it so I can use the OBD 2.

 

[aaexpert]

I've contacted sct and the online support option person barely understands what I'm explaining. It sounded like (last year) that these tuners we being defunct with the Ford update(s) and there wasn't a solution to continue using them. When the ford update happened I noticed right away the difference in the lack of performance. My hope is a fix by the Tuners is available now and what is it? Flashing still under the hood with an updated software download? Or a whole new method going thru the obd2?

 

[Porpoise Hork]

I wish they would have been able to get the SCT BDX working on the 14th gens since I have one of these from my 2020 Ranger.

 

[aaexpert]

I'd consider using the FORD OEM tuner option but I'm reading it isnt that great. Anyone else got the SCTFlash units that can provide if updates worked for them recently?

 

[Elevatorman]

Sounds like if ones happy with their tunes and wants to keep them you might consider cutting the antenna wires so ford can't do remote updates without your permission anymore. I have been borderline on how I feel about them having remote access to my truck but that's dirty in my opinion. Now I know how I feel. Im sure the antenna for your radio is not the one they use for data. Im betting the two odd black boxes on top of the cab are their data antennas.

 

[aaexpert]

I work with electronics daily in my business and our aftermarket manufacturers are always adapting. Tune manufacturers are never going to stop and give up because of a running change in a vehicles ota update. They will adapt and have a solution available at some point which is why I asked others here what people have done/learned from their tunes over the past several months and compare notes. I found it odd both Ford and Livernois changed to the new method using the OBD port vs. the ECU method and also SCT still uses the ECU method and wonder if it even works? Im guessing Ford changed the platform to OBD for a reason...but again hence why I'm asking here for more feedback.

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