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Elite Flash gearbox tuning tool for BMW

BMW gearbox tuning

Elite Flash TCU tool for ZF 6-speed, ZF 8-speed, M ZF 8-speed and M DCT

Most automatic BMWs from the last two decades use a ZF gearbox, either the 6-speed or the 8-speed. Both are strong, quick units held back by calibrations that favour refinement and fuel economy, so they upshift early and take a moment to respond when you ask for more.

Choose your model or gearbox

from £350 inc VAT

Not sure which one? Send us your registration or call 01622 321500.

  • UK delivery £9.60. Orders before 2pm on a weekday are usually sent within 48 hours.
  • Lifetime product warranty
  • Fits in about 15 minutes, no tools needed

Will it work on my BMW?

Yes, if it meets all three of these. If you are not sure, ask us before you buy.

  • Automatic gearbox. Including tiptronic, double-clutch and paddle-shift.
  • Built from 2001 on.
  • Has an OBD port. Usually under the dashboard by your knees.

Elite Flash for BMW

Elite Flash adjusts the shift strategy inside the gearbox control unit for faster, firmer changes and quicker paddle response, then resets the adaptations so it relearns cleanly. M cars have their own tools: one for the M ZF 8-speed and one for the M DCT double-clutch gearbox.

Gearbox options and prices
Model or gearboxPrice inc VAT
M DCT£415
M ZF 8-speed£415
ZF 6-speed£350
ZF 8-speed£350

What changes when you flash it

The tool rewrites the shift strategy inside the gearbox control unit through the OBD port.

Shift speed
Up to 40% faster gearshifts.
Smoothness
Cleaner, firmer changes without the slur between gears.
Torque converter
Locks up at lower rpm, so the car pulls more directly.
Paddles
Faster reaction when you change gear yourself.
Adaptations
Reset as standard, so the gearbox relearns from a clean start.
Dealer visits
No count is added to the gearbox flash counter. If a dealer update overwrites it, flash it again.

Fitting it

  1. Ignition on

    Dashboard on, engine off.

  2. Plug it in

    Into the OBD port, usually under the dashboard by your knees.

  3. Wait for the beeps

    It writes in 30 to 90 seconds. Leave it alone until it beeps to finish.

  4. Ignition off

    Then unplug the tool.

  5. Idle for 10 minutes

    Start the engine and let it idle while the gearbox resets. Then drive gently for the first 50 to 100 miles while it adapts.

Read the full install guide

What owners say

Another little mod done on the M5! TCU flash tune, really made a difference to the gearbox on shifting speeds, paddle reaction and smoothness. Over the moon with the results.

Joe ShuttBMW M5

I was a bit sceptical as it took 30 seconds to load and I thought, is that it? Immediately I could feel the gears were changing much quicker. I'd say it was much smoother, and when pushing on I could feel more of the torque being used. A fantastic upgrade to complement the ECU remap already done to the car.

Vijay PatelRange Rover Sport SDV6, 2014

Questions about the BMW tool

Will it work on my car?

If your car has an automatic, tiptronic or paddle-shift gearbox, was built from 2001 on and has an OBD port, it is very likely covered. Pick your make and gearbox above. If you are not sure which gearbox you have, send us your registration and we will check.

Can I use it on more than one car?

No. The tool locks to the chassis number (VIN) of the first car it is plugged into. You can use it on that car as many times as you like, for example after a dealer software update, but plugging it into a different car can damage that car's control units.

What happens if the dealer updates my car?

A dealer software update can overwrite the gearbox settings. Plug the tool back in and flash it again. It does not add to the gearbox flash counter.

Can I put the car back to standard?

Yes. A main dealer can reinstall the full standard gearbox software, which returns it to how it left the factory. Many owners do this before selling the car.

How long does it take?

The flash itself takes 30 to 90 seconds. Allow 15 minutes in total, including 10 minutes of idling afterwards, then drive gently for the first 50 to 100 miles while the gearbox adapts.

Is there a warranty?

Yes, every tool has a lifetime product warranty. Register your tool once it is fitted so we have your car and order on file.

Can I return it?

Because it locks to your car the moment it is plugged in, a tool that has been used cannot be returned. If you are unsure whether it suits your car, ask us before you buy.

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