A car's firmware version is like a passport of the software that controls the operation of electronic units: from the engine to the multimedia system. Knowing the current software version helps when updating software, diagnosing errors, or selecting compatible equipment. For example, mismatch of firmware versions ECU (engine control unit) and TCU (gearbox) may cause jerking when changing gears or increased fuel consumption.

The problem is that manufacturers hide this information in different menus - in some places it is available through the on-board computer, and in others it requires connecting a diagnostic scanner. In this article we will analyze all current methods, including hidden button combinations for popular brands, working with OBD2 adapters and decoding VIN-code. Let us separately dwell on the nuances for cars with the system Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and hybrid models, where firmware can be duplicated in several blocks.

1. Check via on-board computer or settings menu

The easiest way is to find the firmware version in the car's service menu. For most modern models, this information is hidden in the “About the Car” or “Diagnostics” sections. For example, in Toyota Camry (2018+) the path looks like this: Menu → Setup → Vehicle Information → Software Version.

The algorithm is different for different brands:

  • 🔹 Volkswagen/Audi/Skoda: CAR → Settings → System Information → Software Version. On display Virtual Cockpit version may appear as SW: xxx.xx.xx.
  • 🔹 BMW/Mini: iDrive → CAR → Vehicle Information → Software Version. Look for lines I-step (for engine) and NBT-EVO (for multimedia).
  • 🔹 Hyundai/Kia: Settings → System → About Vehicle. The media firmware version may be indicated as AVN xxx.xx.xx.
  • 🔹 Mercedes-Benz: System → Vehicle Data → Software Status. For models with MBUX The software version is displayed in the format MB.OS xxx.xx.xx.
⚠️ Attention: On some vehicles (for example, Renault with the system R-Link) the firmware version is displayed only when you hold the button MENU within 10 seconds. If the menu does not respond, check whether access is blocked through the dealer settings.

For older models (before 2010), this method may not work - manufacturers did not display the software version on the screen. In this case, diagnostic equipment will be required.

📊 What kind of car do you have?
Domestic (Lada, UAZ, etc.)
European (VW, BMW, Mercedes, etc.)
Asian (Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, etc.)
American (Ford, Chevrolet, etc.)
Other

2. Using the OBD2 adapter and diagnostic programs

If the on-board computer does not show the firmware version, it will help OBD2 scanner (for example, ELM327, VGate iCar2 or Launch CReader). Connect it to the connector OBD-II (usually located under the steering wheel) and use one of the programs:

Program Supported Brands Where to look for the firmware version Cost
Torque Pro Universal (via OBD2) Section “ECU Info” → “Software Version” ~500 rub.
FORScan Ford, Mazda, Lincoln, Mercedes Module "PCM" → "Strategy Version" Free (Advanced Features License)
VCDS (VAG-COM) VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat Block “01-Engine” → “Coding-07” → “Software” From 10,000 rub.
ISTA/D (BMW) BMW, Mini, Rolls-Royce Section “Vehicle Management” → “I-step” Requires subscription (~2000 RUR/month)

To connect:

  1. Install the program on your smartphone or PC.
  2. Connect the OBD2 adapter to the car connector and turn on the ignition (no need to start the engine).
  3. Select your car model in the program and start scanning.
  4. Go to the section with information about ECU (Engine Control Unit) or TCU (Transmission Control Unit).
⚠️ Attention: Cheap Chinese OBD2 adapters (price up to 500 rubles) often do not read the firmware version - only errors. For full diagnostics you need an adapter with protocol support CAN and UDS (for example, VGate iCar2 Wi-Fi).

Make sure the adapter is compatible with your car brand|

Charge your smartphone/laptop (diagnostics drain the battery)|

Turn on the ignition (-position II) without starting the engine|

Update the program to the latest version|

Check the stability of Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connection-->

3. Decoding the VIN code: what you can find out about the firmware

VIN-code (Vehicle Identification Number) contains data about the vehicle’s configuration, including information about firmware versions at the time of release. However, this method will only show the factory version of the software - if the software was updated by the dealer, the data will be out of date.

To check:

  1. Find VIN (usually on the driver's side windshield or in car documents).
  2. Enter the code on one of the services:
  • Look for sections Software Version, ECU Type or Calibration ID.

    • Example decryption for Toyota RAV4 2020:

    

    VIN: JTMXXXXXXXXX12345
    

    Engine ECU: 89661-0W040 (Software: 10.2.1)
    

    Transmission ECU: 89661-0W050 (Software: 4.1.3)
    ⚠️ Attention: Some manufacturers (for example, BMW and Mercedes) encrypt data about firmware in VIN-code. In this case, the service will only show the model ECU, but not the software version. For accurate information, diagnostics will be required.
    What does the factory sticker with the firmware version look like?

    On some vehicles (for example, Ford Focus 3 or Volvo XC60) The firmware version is indicated on a sticker under the hood or on the fuse box. Look for inscriptions like:

    - PCM: XXXX-XX-XX (for engine)

    - TCM: XXXX-XX-XX (for gearbox)

    - BCM: XXXX-XX-XX (for body block)

    A photo of such a sticker can be found in the repair manual for your model.

    4. Hidden menus and engineering modes

    Many manufacturers hide information about firmware in service menus, access to which is opened by special button combinations. These menus are intended for dealers, but you can activate them yourself.

    Examples for popular brands:

    • 🔧 Toyota/Lexus: Pinch Trip Reset (mileage reset) + turn on the ignition. From the menu, select Diagnostic Mode → ECU Version.
    • 🔧 Honda: Press and hold Menu + Back on the steering wheel for 10 seconds. Go to System Info.
    • 🔧 Nissan/Infiniti: Turn on the ignition, then press 5 times Trip Reset. The software version will be displayed on the dashboard.
    • 🔧 Ford: Pinch OK on the steering wheel + Menu on the dashboard, then turn the ignition on. Select PCM Version.

    By car Tesla The firmware version is displayed in the "Software" menu (on the central screen), but to access detailed information about the control units, the "Service Mode" is required, which is only activated through the diagnostic software Tesla Toolbox.

    If the combination doesn't work, check:

    • 🔋 Battery charge level (if the charge is low, the service menu may not open).
    • 🔑 Position of the key in the ignition switch (usually required Position II - “ignition on”)
    • 📱 Model compatibility (access is blocked on some cars after 2022).
    💡

    If the service menu has opened, but the firmware version is not displayed, try scrolling through all sections using the buttons on the steering wheel or steering column switches. Sometimes the information is hidden on the 3rd or 4th screen.

    5. Contact an authorized dealer: when necessary

    If independent methods do not work, all you have to do is turn to official dealer. This is relevant for:

    • 🔐 Cars with closed access to diagnosis (for example, Porsche, Ferrari, some models Lexus).
    • 🔧 Cars after emergency repairs, where the control units could be replaced.
    • 📡 Auto with updated software based on recall (the manufacturer may not have documented the changes).

    What to do:

    1. Sign up for diagnostics (cost - from 1000 to 3000 rubles).
    2. Check what is required protocol with firmware versions of all units (ECU, TCU, BCM, ABS, etc.).
    3. Ask for a printout or photo of the diagnostic scanner screen (for example, Bosch KTS or Launch X431).

    Example of a dealer report for Volkswagen Passat B8:

    

    Diagnostic date: 05/10/2026
    

    VIN: WVWZZZ3CZFE123456
    


    1. Engine control unit (ECU):
    

    - Type: Bosch MEVD17.5.20
    

    - Software version: 0604 (HW: 0261208626)
    

    - Calibration date: 11/15/2021
    


    2. Automatic transmission control unit (TCU):
    

    - Type: ZF 8HP50
    

    - Software version: 10.3.1 (HW: 0B5905012)
    ⚠️ Attention: Some dealers refuse to provide information about firmware, citing “trade secrets.” In this case, request a written refusal - according to the Law “On the Protection of Consumer Rights” (Article 10), you have the right to complete information about the car.

    6. Online databases and owner forums

    If you need to know factory firmware version for a specific model, online databases and communities will help:

    • 📌 Motor.com — catalog of firmware for American and European cars.
    • 📌 Identifix — database for dealers (access by subscription).
    • 📌 Forums:
      • Drive2.ru (sections by brand)
      • Club-Toyota.ru (for Toyota/Lexus owners)
      • Bimmerpost.com (for BMW)

    Example search query:

    

    "Volkswagen Golf 7 1.4 TSI 2017 ECU software version site:drive2.ru"

    What you can find on the forums:

    • 📄 Screenshots of service menus with firmware versions.
    • 🔧 Upgrade Instructions (for example, for MMI 3G in Audi).
    • ⚠️ Warnings about “crooked” firmware (for example version xx.03.12 for Ford Focus 3 may cause problems with the turbine).
    💡

    Unofficial firmware (“custom”) is often found on forums. Installing them may void the warranty or cause malfunctions. Check reviews from other owners before upgrading!

    7. Hardware methods: reading via EEPROM

    In rare cases (for example, when restoring a car after the control unit has been “bricked”), the firmware version can only be found out by direct reading microcircuits EEPROM or Flash memory. This method requires:

    • 🔧 Soldering equipment (soldering station, flux, solder).
    • 💻 Programmer (for example, TL866II Plus or CH341A).
    • 📚 Knowledge in electrical engineering (risk of damage to the unit if connected incorrectly).

    Sequence of actions:

    1. Remove the control unit (eg ECU or TCU).
    2. Find the memory chip (usually marked 24Cxx, 25xxx or 93Cxx).
    3. Connect the programmer to the microcircuit (observing the pinout!).
    4. Read the memory dump and open it in the program Hex editor (for example, HxD).
    5. Look for version lines (eg SW: 1.0.4 or HW: 3.2).
    ⚠️ Attention: Incorrect connection of the programmer may erase firmware or disable the unit. This method is recommended only for experienced electronics technicians. For most tasks, OBD2 diagnostics is sufficient.

    Firmware dump example ECU for Opel Astra H:

    

    00000000: 53 57 3A 20 31 2E 30 2E 34 0D 0A 48 57 3A 20 33  SW: 1.0.4..HW: 3
    

    00000010: 2E 31 0D 0A 43 61 6C 69 62 72 61 74 69 6F 6E 20  .1..Calibration
    

    00000020: 44 61 74 65 3A 20 32 30 31 38 2D 30 33 2D 31 35  Date: 2018-03-15

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about car firmware

    Is it possible to find out the firmware version without diagnostic equipment?

    Yes, but only for some cars. Methods:

    • Via on-board computer (menu “About the car” or “System information”).
    • Via hidden service menus (button combinations for a specific brand).
    • By VIN code (will only show the factory version).

    If these methods do not work, you will need an OBD2 scanner or contact your dealer.

    What are the dangers of updating firmware using unofficial methods?

    Risks:

    • 🚨 Loss of warranty (dealers refuse service if they detect “custom” software).
    • 🔥 Damage to the control unit (wrong firmware can “brick” the ECU).
    • ⚡ Unstable work (for example, floating speed, ABS errors).
    • 📉 Resource reduction (some “tuning” firmware increases the load on the engine).

    Before updating, check the reviews on the forums and make sure that the firmware is suitable for your version ECU (the number is indicated on the unit body).

    How can you tell if the firmware is outdated and needs to be updated?

    Signs:

    • ⚠️ Appear on the dashboard unknown errors (for example, P0606 - ECU malfunction).
    • 🔄 Inappropriate behavior of systems (jerks when changing gears, spontaneous turning on of headlights).
    • 📱 Connection problems smartphone via Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay.
    • 🔋 Increased fuel consumption for no apparent reason.

    To check for up-to-dateness, compare your version with the latest updates on the manufacturer's website or dealer.

    Is it possible to roll back the firmware to a previous version?

    Technically yes, but:

    • 🔒 Manufacturers often block downgrade (for example, BMW and Mercedes do not allow you to roll back to versions older than 2018).
    • 🛠️ Required special equipment (for example, K-TAG or Galletto).
    • ⚖️ Possible legal consequences (if the rollback is related to circumventing environmental regulations, for example, deleting AdBlue).

    Consult an experienced auto electrician before rolling back.

    Where is the firmware stored in the car?

    The firmware is distributed over several blocks:

    • 🚗 ECU (Engine Control Unit) — engine control.
    • 🔄 TCU (Transmission Control Unit) — gearbox.
    • 💡 BCM (Body Control Module) - lighting, power windows.
    • 🎵 Infotainment - multimedia system.
    • 🚦 ABS/ESP — braking system and directional stability.

    Each block has its own memory chip (usually Flash or EEPROM), where the firmware is stored.