FAQ
TL;DR: Unlocking a factory-locked BRC Plug & Drive ECU costs 200 PLN net (~€45) and always requires the licensed Calibration Tool software; “No key, and a license is needed for the program to function.” [Elektroda, sztywny13, #17163523; #16317165]
Why it matters: Knowing the lock status prevents accidental erasure that can immobilise your car.
Quick Facts
• Unlocking fee: 200 PLN net + courier [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17163523]
• Required software: BRC Calibration Tool (license only for authorised workshops) [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17871615]
• Typical locked ECU codes: DE81xxxxx in Ford/Kia factory LPG [Elektroda, sztywny13, #18019186; #16274449]
• Wrong program symptom: only ECU-ID window visible, tabs greyed [Elektroda, lutek34, post #16214208]
• Official unlock site: Czakram, Tarnów—no remote service [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #18881583]
Why does Sequent P&D show only the ECU version window?
The P&D interface appears when you connect with the wrong software or to a factory-locked controller. In most cases the user ran Sequent P&D instead of Calibration Tool, so tabs stayed inactive [Elektroda, lutek34, #16214208; sztywny13, #17807806].
How do I know if my BRC ECU is factory locked?
Read the code stamped on the ECU (e.g., DE815133). Codes starting with DE81 and fitted by Ford or Kia are almost always locked [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #18019186] A locked unit shows limited data even with the correct cable.
What software should I use with Plug & Drive Plus or Sequent 32?
Use BRC Calibration Tool; Sequent P&D is only for older, unlocked ECUs. Calibration Tool needs an active licence dongle issued by the distributor [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17871615]
Where can I legally obtain Calibration Tool?
Only authorised BRC workshops can buy or renew the licence. The installer receives the dongle directly from Czakram, the Polish distributor [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17871615]
How much does professional unlocking cost?
Czakram charges 200 PLN net (≈€45) plus shipping. The fee covers reading, clearing and re-programming the EEPROM [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17163523]
Can other Czakram branches, like Mysłowice, unlock my ECU?
No. The operation is performed only at the Tarnów headquarters; other branches forward the module there [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #18881583]
Quick 3-step check: Is my controller locked or just running wrong software?
- Connect using Sequent P&D and note if only the ID window appears.
- Switch to Calibration Tool; if tabs remain greyed, the ECU is locked.
- Verify the DE81***** code to confirm lock status [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #17807806]
What happens if I erase a locked ECU with P&D?
The ECU loses its calibration and cannot be re-programmed without unlock; the engine may not start [Elektroda, dmxhabib, post #20596466] This edge-case often forces a tow to the service centre.
Is swapping a locked Sequent P&D for an unlocked Fly SF plug-and-play?
The plugs are identical, but injector impedance and MAP calibration differ. You must rewrite firmware or retune the map, so swapping is not advisable [Elektroda, modytom, post #17349010]
Will unlocking void my factory LPG warranty?
Yes. Czakram performs the service but marks the ECU log; warranty on the gas system ends after modification [Elektroda, lutek34, post #17139604]
Are Ford factory installations always locked?
Every Ford ECU reported in the thread (five cases) was locked, suggesting a near-100 % lock rate for that brand [Elektroda, sztywny13, post #18019186]
Injector or ECU: how to tell which part causes misfires?
Swap injector leads; if the misfire moves, the injector or cable is bad. If it stays, suspect ECU driver stage [Elektroda, matete, post #18102566] Clean injectors and rebuild the reducer after 200 000 km to avoid false diagnoses [Elektroda, arekwij, post #18120510]