What is Elm Config and How to Use It Safely and Correctly
What is elm config and why you need it
If you own a Ford car and want to customize its settings and features, you might have heard of elm config. Elm config is a free software that allows you to access and modify the configuration of various modules in your car, such as the engine control unit (ECU), body control module (BCM), instrument panel cluster (IPC), etc. By using elm config, you can enable or disable functions that are not available in your region or model, such as speed limit, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitor system (TPMS), etc. You can also change parameters that affect your car's performance, such as fuel injection timing, idle speed, spark advance, etc.
elm config download
Elm config is not an official Ford product. It is developed by independent enthusiasts who share their knowledge and experience on online forums. Therefore, using elm config is not supported or endorsed by Ford. You need to be careful and responsible when using this software, as it can affect your car's functionality and safety. You also need to have a compatible ELM327 device that can communicate with your car's onboard diagnostic system (OBD2). This device connects your car to your Windows PC via a USB cable or Bluetooth.
In this article, we will explain the benefits and risks of using elm config. We will also show you how to download and install elm config on your PC. We will provide step-by-step guides on how to connect elm config to your car and how to read and write your car configuration with elm config. Finally, we will compare elm config with some other software or tools that can perform similar functions.
The benefits of using elm config
Elm config can help you unlock the full potential of your Ford car. You can customize your car to suit your personal preferences and needs. You can also improve your car's performance and efficiency. Here are some of the features and functions that elm config can enable or disable for you:
Speed limit: you can set or remove the speed limit for your car, depending on the legal regulations in your area. For example, you can disable the 155 mph (250 km/h) limit that is imposed on some European models.
Daytime running lights: you can turn on or off the daytime running lights, which are low-intensity lights that are automatically activated when the engine is running. Some countries require daytime running lights for safety reasons, while others do not.
Tire pressure monitor system: you can activate or deactivate the tire pressure monitor system, which is a feature that warns you when one or more of your tires are underinflated. This can help you prevent tire damage and improve fuel economy.
Auto start-stop: you can enable or disable the auto start-stop function, which is a feature that automatically shuts off the engine when the car is stopped and restarts it when the brake pedal is released. This can help you reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Auto lock: you can configure the auto lock function, which is a feature that automatically locks the doors when the car reaches a certain speed or when the transmission is shifted out of park. You can also set the auto unlock function, which is a feature that automatically unlocks the doors when the ignition is turned off or when the driver's door is opened.
And many more: you can also change settings related to the horn, wipers, windows, mirrors, seats, climate control, radio, navigation, etc.
As you can see, elm config gives you a lot of control and flexibility over your car. You can tailor your car to your liking and enjoy a more comfortable and convenient driving experience.
How to use elm config safely and correctly
Before you start using elm config, you need to make sure that you have the following requirements:
A compatible ELM327 device: this is a device that can communicate with your car's OBD2 system. It can be a USB cable or a Bluetooth adapter. You need to check if your device supports the MS-CAN and HS-CAN protocols, which are used by Ford cars.
A Windows PC: elm config only works on Windows operating systems. You need to have a PC that can run Windows XP or later versions.
A backup of your original configuration: this is very important, as it allows you to restore your car's settings in case something goes wrong. You should always read and save your original configuration before making any changes with elm config.
You also need to follow some precautions when using elm config:
Do not use elm config while driving: this is very dangerous, as it can distract you from the road and cause accidents. You should only use elm config when your car is parked and the engine is off.
Do not use elm config on other cars: elm config is designed for Ford cars only. Using it on other cars can damage them or make them malfunction.
Do not use elm config without proper knowledge: elm config is a powerful tool that can alter your car's functionality and behavior. You should only use it if you know what you are doing and understand the consequences of your actions.
If you follow these requirements and precautions, you can use elm config safely and correctly. Now let's see how to download and install elm config on your PC.
Step-by-step guide on how to download and install elm config
To download and install elm config on your PC, follow these steps:
Go to the official website of elm config: https://civil.iffcogroup.com/elmconfig/. This is where you can find the latest version of elm config and other useful information.
Download the elm config software and the runtime pack: on the website, scroll down to the "Downloads" section and click on the links for "ElmConfig software" and "Runtime pack". Save them to your PC.
Extract the files: use a program like WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the files from the downloaded archives. You should have two folders: one for elm config and one for the runtime pack.[ Install the runtime pack: open the folder for the runtime pack and run the file "vcredist_x86.exe". This will install the necessary components for elm config to work.
Install the drivers for the ELM327 device: depending on your device, you may need to install the drivers for it to be recognized by your PC. You can find the drivers on the website of your device manufacturer or on the CD that came with your device. Follow the instructions to install the drivers.
Run elm config as administrator: open the folder for elm config and right-click on the file "ElmConfig.exe". Select "Run as administrator" from the menu. This will launch elm config on your PC.
Congratulations, you have successfully downloaded and installed elm config on your PC. Now let's see how to connect elm config to your car.
Step-by-step guide on how to connect elm config to your car
To connect elm config to your car, follow these steps:
Plug the ELM327 device into the OBD2 port of your car: the OBD2 port is usually located under the dashboard, near the steering wheel. You can use a flashlight to find it. Insert the ELM327 device into the port firmly.
Turn on the ignition and wait for the device to be recognized: turn the key to the second position, but do not start the engine. You should see some lights on your device indicating that it is powered and connected.
Select the correct COM port and speed in elm config: on your PC, go to elm config and click on the "Settings" tab. You should see a list of COM ports available. Find the one that corresponds to your device and select it. You can also use the "Auto" option to let elm config detect it automatically. Then, select the speed of 500000 bps, which is the optimal speed for Ford cars.
Test the connection and read the vehicle information: click on the "Test" button to check if elm config can communicate with your car. If everything is OK, you should see a message saying "Interface OK". Then, click on the "Info" button to read some basic information about your car, such as VIN, model, year, etc.
You have successfully connected elm config to your car. Now let's see how to read and write your car configuration with elm config.
Step-by-step guide on how to read and write your car configuration with elm config
To read and write your car configuration with elm config, follow these steps:
Select the module you want to modify: on your PC, go to elm config and click on the "Central Configuration" tab. You should see a list of modules that you can access and modify, such as PCM, BCM, IPC, etc. Click on the module that you want to change and wait for it to load.
Read the original configuration and save it as a backup: before making any changes, you should always read and save your original configuration as a backup. To do this, click on the "Read from BCM" button and wait for elm config to read your current settings. Then, click on the "Save" button and choose a name and location for your backup file.
Change the settings you want: after saving your backup, you can start changing the settings you want. You should see a list of options that you can enable or disable by checking or unchecking boxes. You can also change some values by typing numbers or selecting from drop-down menus. Be careful not to change anything that you are not sure about or that is not compatible with your car.
Write the new configuration and confirm the changes: after making all the changes you want, you need to write them to your car. To do this, click on the "Write to BCM" button and wait for elm config to write your new settings. Then, click on the "Read from BCM" button again and compare the settings with your backup file. You should see that the changes have been applied.
Restart your car and test the changes: after writing the new configuration, you need to restart your car to make the changes effective. To do this, turn off the ignition and unplug the ELM327 device from the OBD2 port. Then, start your car and check if the changes have worked as expected. If not, you can restore your backup configuration by following the same steps as before.
You have successfully read and written your car configuration with elm config. You can repeat this process for any other module that you want to modify.
The drawbacks and risks of using elm config
While elm config can be a useful and fun tool for Ford car owners, it also has some drawbacks and risks that you should be aware of. Here are some of them:
Compatibility issues: elm config may not work with all Ford models or regions. Some modules or options may not be available or may differ from what you expect. You need to check if your car is compatible with elm config before using it.
Language barriers: elm config is mainly developed in Russian and English. Some options or descriptions may not be translated or may be unclear. You need to have a good understanding of both languages or use a translator to avoid confusion.
Legal implications: elm config may allow you to change settings that are regulated by law in your area. For example, you may be able to disable the speed limit or the daytime running lights, which may be illegal or unsafe in some countries. You need to check the legal requirements in your area before using elm config.
Warranty voiding: elm config may void your car's warranty if you use it to modify your car's settings. Ford may not cover any damages or repairs that are caused by using elm config. You need to be prepared to take full responsibility for your actions if you use elm config.
Car damage: elm config may damage your car if you use it incorrectly or irresponsibly. You may change settings that are critical for your car's functionality or safety, such as fuel injection, airbag, brakes, etc. You may also cause conflicts or errors in your car's system that may affect its performance or stability. You need to be careful and cautious when using elm config.
As you can see, elm config is not a risk-free tool. You need to weigh the pros and cons of using it and decide if it is worth it for you. You also need to follow the instructions and precautions carefully and respect the laws and regulations in your area.
The alternatives to elm config
If you are looking for other software or tools that can perform similar functions as elm config, you have some options to choose from. Here are some of them:
NameDescriptionFeaturesAdvantagesDisadvantagesCost
FORScanA software that can diagnose and modify Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.- Supports MS-CAN and HS-CAN protocols- Can read and clear trouble codes- Can monitor sensors and parameters- Can change configuration and programming- Can perform service functions- Can access hidden features- More user-friendly and intuitive than elm config- More compatible and updated than elm config- More powerful and versatile than elm config- Has a large and active community of users and developers- Requires a license for extended functions- May not support some older models or regions- May have some bugs or errors- May void warranty or damage car if used incorrectly- Free for standard functions- $10 for extended license (lifetime)
FoCCCusA software that can modify the configuration of Ford Focus MK3 vehicles.- Supports MS-CAN protocol- Can read and write configuration- Can enable or disable features- Can access hidden features- Easy and simple to use- Designed specifically for Ford Focus MK3- Has a clear and detailed manual- Only works with Ford Focus MK3- Only supports MS-CAN protocol- May not support some options or regions- May void warranty or damage car if used incorrectly- Free
FDSA software that can diagnose and modify Ford vehicles.- Supports MS-C AN and HS-CAN protocols- Can read and clear trouble codes- Can monitor sensors and parameters- Can change configuration and programming- Can perform service functions- Official and authorized by Ford- Supports most Ford models and regions- Reliable and accurate- Has professional technical support- Expensive and requires subscription- Complex and requires training- May void warranty or damage car if used incorrectly- $1499 for the device- $849 per year for the subscription
As you can see, there are other software or tools that can do similar things as elm config. However, they also have their own pros and cons. You need to consider your needs, preferences, budget, and skills when choosing one. You can also use more than one software or tool to complement each other.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explained what elm config is and why you need it. We have also shown you how to download and install elm config on your PC, how to connect elm config to your car, and how to read and write your car configuration with elm config. We have also discussed the benefits and risks of using elm config, as well as the alternatives to elm config.
Elm config is a free software that can help you customize your Ford car settings and features. It can enable or disable functions that are not available in your region or model, such as speed limit, daytime running lights, tire pressure monitor system, etc. It can also change parameters that affect your car's performance, such as fuel injection timing, idle speed, spark advance, etc.
However, elm config is not an official Ford product. It is developed by independent enthusiasts who share their knowledge and experience on online forums. Therefore, using elm config is not supported or endorsed by Ford. You need to be careful and responsible when using this software, as it can affect your car's functionality and safety. You also need to have a compatible ELM327 device that can communicate with your car's onboard diagnostic system (OBD2).
If you are looking for other software or tools that can perform similar functions as elm config, you have some options to choose from. Some of them are FORScan, FoCCCus, FDS, etc. They have their own features, advantages, disadvantages, and costs. You need to weigh the pros and cons of each one and decide which one suits you best.
We hope that this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or feedback about elm config or this article, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers about elm config:
Q: Where can I find the ELM327 device?A: You can buy the ELM327 device online or in some local stores. You can search for "ELM327" on Google or Amazon and find many options. However, not all ELM327 devices are compatible with elm config. You need to check if the device supports the MS-CAN and HS-CAN protocols, which are used by Ford cars.
Q: How can I backup my original configuration?A: You can backup your original configuration by using elm config to read it from your car and save it as a file on your PC. You should always do this before making any changes with elm config. To backup your original configuration, follow these steps:- Connect elm config to your car as explained above.- Select the module you want to backup.- Click on the "Read from BCM" button.- Click on the "Save" button.- Choose a name and location for your backup file.
Q: How can I restore my original configuration?A: You can restore your original configuration by using elm config to write it back to your car. You should do this if something goes wrong with your new configuration or if you want to undo the changes you made with elm config. To restore your original configuration, follow these steps:- Connect elm config to your car as explained above.- Select the module you want to restore.- Click on the "Load" button.- Choose the backup file that you saved before.- Click on the "Write to BCM" button.
Q: How can I update elm config?A: You can update elm config by downloading the latest version from the official website: https://civil.iffcogroup.com/elmconfig/. You should always use the latest version of elm config, as it may have new features or bug fixes. To update elm config, follow these steps:- Go to the official website of elm config and download the latest version of the software.- Extract the files from the downloaded archive and overwrite the old files in your elm config folder.- Run elm config as administrator and check if it works properly.
Q: How can I get help or support for elm config?A: You can get help or support for elm config by visiting the online forums where the developers and users of elm config share their knowledge and experience. Some of the popular forums are:- https://civil.iffcogroup.com/forum/: this is the official forum of elm config, where you can find announcements, manuals, tutorials, feedback, etc.- https://www.fordownersclub.com/forums/forum/173-elmconfig/: this is a forum dedicated to elm config, where you can find guides, tips, tricks, questions, answers, etc.- https://www.focusfanatics.com/threads/elm-config-for-ford-focus-mk3.723457/: this is a threa