The BMW EWS3 (Elektronische Wegfahrsperre, Version 3) system is a further development in BMW's line of electronic vehicle immobilizer systems, designed to prevent the car from being started without the correct, uniquely coded key. Introduced in the late 1990s, EWS3 was a significant advancement over its predecessors, EWS1 and EWS2, incorporating more sophisticated anti-theft features.

Key features of the EWS3 system include:

1. Transponder Chip: The key contains a transponder chip that communicates with the EWS3 module. This chip carries a unique code that must be recognized by the EWS3 system to allow the vehicle to start.
2. Rolling Code: Unlike the static code in earlier systems, EWS3 utilizes a rolling code mechanism that changes every time the vehicle is started, significantly enhancing security against code grabbing and replay attacks.
3. Communication with DME/DDE: The EWS3 module communicates with the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (DME for petrol engines or DDE for diesel engines) to authorize engine start. If the codes between the key, the EWS module, and the ECU do not match, the engine will not start.
4. Centralization of Security Functions: Beyond immobilization, EWS3 integrates various security functions, including central locking and alarm systems, providing a more comprehensive approach to vehicle security.
5. Key Programming and Synchronization: EWS3 allows for a specific number of keys to be programmed and synchronized with the system, ensuring that only authorized keys can start the vehicle.
6. Diagnostic Capabilities: The system can be diagnosed and programmed using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools, allowing for key synchronization, system checks, and updates as needed.

EWS3 marked a pivotal point in vehicle security technology by introducing more advanced encryption methods and tighter integration with the vehicle's electronic systems. This enhanced security was crucial in deterring theft and unauthorized use of BMW vehicles during a time when vehicle theft techniques were becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Yes, a used replacement DME (Digital Motor Electronics), also known as an ECU (Engine Control Unit), typically needs to be programmed or coded to match the specific vehicle it is being installed in. This programming process is essential for several reasons:

1. Vehicle Specific Information: The DME contains vehicle-specific information, including VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), mileage, and engine parameters. Programming ensures that this information matches the vehicle's other systems for seamless operation.
2. Immobilizer System: Modern vehicles, especially those equipped with systems like BMW's EWS (Elektronische Wegfahrsperre), require the DME to be synchronized with the vehicle's immobilizer system. This synchronization ensures that the vehicle recognizes the new DME as part of its system, allowing the engine to start. Without proper programming, the vehicle's security system would prevent the engine from starting as it would not recognize the replacement DME.
3. Adaptation Values: The DME also stores adaptation values that are critical for the engine's performance. These values adjust parameters such as fuel injection, ignition timing, and idle speed to optimize performance and emissions. Programming the used DME ensures these values are correctly set for the vehicle it is installed in.
4. Software Updates: A used DME might come from a vehicle with different software versions or updates. Programming ensures that the DME's firmware is up to date and compatible with the vehicle's other electronic systems.
5. Component Compatibility: Vehicles often have variations in hardware and software configurations based on the model year, options installed, and market differences. Programming the DME ensures compatibility with the specific configurations of the vehicle.

The process of programming a used DME can be complex and typically requires specialized equipment and software. It's often performed by professionals in automotive repair shops or dealerships that have access to the necessary diagnostic tools and the ability to access manufacturer-specific programming software. Depending on the vehicle's make and model, this process can involve directly programming the DME or performing an immobilizer system synchronization procedure.

Yes, a used replacement DME (Digital Motor Electronics), also known as an engine control unit (ECU) in BMW vehicles, typically needs to be programmed or "virginized" before it can be installed into another vehicle. Here's why:

1. Immobilizer Compatibility: Modern vehicles come equipped with an immobilizer system (such as BMW's EWS system) that prevents the engine from running unless the correct key is recognized. The DME is programmed to work with the immobilizer system of the original vehicle. If you install a used DME into a different vehicle without reprogramming or virginizing, the immobilizer will prevent the engine from starting because it does not recognize the DME.
2. VIN Matching: The DME is programmed with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the original vehicle. This information is used for various diagnostic and regulatory purposes. A used DME needs to be virginized to erase the original VIN so that it can be reprogrammed with the VIN of the new vehicle.
3. Configuration and Calibration: Every vehicle may have different configurations and calibrations based on the model, engine type, transmission, and other factors. A used DME needs to be reprogrammed to match the specifications and configurations of the vehicle it is being installed into to ensure optimal performance.
4. Error Codes and Historical Data: A used DME carries error codes and historical data from its previous vehicle. Virginizing the DME clears this data, preventing potential diagnostic confusion and ensuring that any future issues can be accurately diagnosed based on the current vehicle's condition.

Virginizing a DME essentially resets it to a factory-like state, removing all previous programming and data. This process requires specialized equipment and software. Once the DME is virginized, it can be properly programmed to match the new vehicle's specifications, ensuring that the engine operates correctly and is fully integrated with the vehicle's other systems.

No, if you want to have us virginize the DME for you, you can send just the donor and original DMEs/ECUs. However, you will need to perform the EWS synchronization process with a scan tool or dealer grade software to sync the Virginized / Renewed DME to EWS Module/Key.

Yes, if you want to have us sync the DME to your original EWS Module and Key after we virginize your replacement DME. This is an extra fee and is available to be selected in the variant above.

When working with BMW engine control units (ECUs), particularly when dealing with replacements or modifications, terms like "DME Virginize" and "EWS Delete" often come up. Each process has its specific purpose and implications for the vehicle's operation and security system. Here’s a breakdown of what each term means and how they differ:

DME Virginize

The Digital Motor Electronics (DME) is BMW's term for their engine control unit (ECU). "Virginizing" a used DME involves resetting it to its factory default state, removing all previous programming, including immobilizer (EWS) data, VIN numbers, and any other vehicle-specific data. This process is necessary when installing a used DME into a different vehicle because it allows the DME to be reprogrammed and matched to the new vehicle’s immobilizer system and other specific configurations. Virginizing makes the DME "like new" from a programming perspective, enabling it to be fully integrated and synchronized with another car's systems, including the EWS, key fobs, and VIN.

EWS Delete

EWS (Elektronische Wegfahrsperre) is the electronic immobilizer system designed to prevent the BMW from starting without the correct key. An "EWS Delete" involves modifying the DME's software to bypass or completely remove the EWS function. This means the DME will no longer check for the correct key signal before allowing the engine to start, effectively disabling a significant part of the vehicle's security system. EWS Delete is often done for vehicles that are being used in environments where the EWS system might cause unnecessary complications, such as in motorsport applications or in older vehicles where maintaining the EWS system is no longer practical.

Key Differences

• Purpose: Virginizing a DME is about resetting it for reprogramming to a new vehicle, maintaining all security and immobilizer functions. EWS Delete is about removing the immobilizer function for simplicity or because the EWS system is malfunctioning or not needed.
• Security: Virginizing maintains the vehicle's security by allowing the DME to be correctly paired with the vehicle's EWS system. EWS Delete reduces the vehicle's security by bypassing a key anti-theft measure.
• Application: Virginizing is used when a used DME is being prepared for installation into another vehicle and needs to be programmed with that vehicle's specific data. EWS Delete is often applied in specialized applications like racing or when bypassing damaged or problematic EWS systems in older vehicles.

Both procedures should be considered carefully, especially the EWS Delete, as it involves compromising the vehicle's built-in anti-theft system. Virginizing a DME is a standard practice in the automotive repair industry for ensuring that replacement ECUs can be integrated into vehicles seamlessly.

We have a wide coverage and extensive list of DMEs that are supported for the DME Virginize Service.

DME Types Supported:
DME M5.2.1 - M62B44 - E39 540i - E38 740i 740iL 750iL -
DME M5.2.1 - M73B54/Tu - E38 750i 750il V12 1998-2001
DME ME7.2 - M62B44TU - E39 540i - E38 740i 740iL - E53 X5 4.4i 4.6is - Z8 Alpina
DME ME9.2 - N62B44 - E60 545i - E63/E64 645Ci - E65/E66 745i 745Li - E53 X5 4.4i 4.8is
DME ME9.2 - N62B48 - E60 550i - E63/E64 650i - E65/E66 750i 750Li - E70 X5 4.8i
DME ME9.2 - N73B60 - E65 760i - E66 760iL - Rolls Royce Phantom RR1 (please email us for this engine/dme combo)
DME MS42 - M52TU - E46 328i - E39 528i - Z3 2.8i
DME MS43 - M54B30 - E46 325i 330i - E39 525i 530i - X5 3.0 - Z3 3.0i
DME MS45 - M54B30 - E46 325i 330i - E39 525i 530i - X5 3.0 - Z3 3.0i
DME MS45.1 - M56B25 - E46 325i 330i - E39 525i 530i - X5 3.0 - Z3 3.0i - E60 530i
DME MSS52 - S62B50 - E39 M5 2000 - 2003
DME MSS54 - S54B30 - E46 M3 2000 - 2003, Z3M Coupe Z3M Roadster 2001 - 2002
DME MSS54HP - S54B30 - E46 M3 2004 - 2006

We have a wide coverage and an extensive list of BMW Engine Types that are
supported for DME Virginize Service:

• M52TU - M52B25TU M52B28TU
• M54 - M54B25 M54B30
• M56 - M56B25
• M62 - M62B44
• M62TU - M62B44TU M62B46TU
• M73 - M73B54 M73B54TU
• N73 – N73B60
• N62 - N62B44 N62B44TU N62B48
• S54 - S54B30
• S62 - S62B50

If your BMW Engine type is not listed, or if you're uncertain about the
specific type you have, we encourage you to reach out to us via email. Please
include photographs of the stickers on your DME for identification, along with
the year and model of your BMW. Providing your full Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) can also significantly assist us in accurately determining the
correct DME type for your vehicle. This information will enable us to offer you
the most accurate assistance and ensure that we can support your needs
effectively.