AP 997S

UPDATE

New Bose amp was installed this morning. It's a 5 minute job.

PCM Update disc p/n 000 043 205 46 004 (Level 2 - 4202) was retried and all went well.

PCM software is now at 4202 and Bose Amp software is 17500.

Even my Dension GW500 was restored w/o having to reset anything.

No drama or issues now.

Bottomline: If your Bose amp displays a s/w level of 16400 it must be dealt w/ prior to any PCM updates.

Next step is to go forward w/ PCM2.1 - NAV Update (Kit 997-044-901-51).

Thanks to Berty & PTEC for their information and advice.

ps. Even though my 997S is out of warranty my dealer provided the new amp and labor on a 'Goodwill Work Order'. Kudos to them.

UPDATE

New Bose amp was installed this morning. It's a 5 minute job.

PCM Update disc p/n 000 043 205 46 004 (Level 2 - 4202) was retried and all went well.

PCM software is now at 4202 and Bose Amp software is 17500.

Even my Dension GW500 was restored w/o having to reset anything.

No drama or issues now.

Bottomline: If your Bose amp displays a s/w level of 16400 it must be dealt w/ prior to any PCM updates.

Next step is to go forward w/ PCM2.1 - NAV Update (Kit 997-044-901-51).

Thanks to Berty & PTEC for their information and advice.

ps. Even though my 997S is out of warranty my dealer provided the new amp and labor on a 'Goodwill Work Order'. Kudos to them.

Hi Vizcarra44,

1) I can tell you from personal experience every method or technique to eject a 'stuck' PCM update disc that the PCM is/was attempting to read short of removing the PCM and disassembly has been unsuccessful. None of them have worked in my case. If it's a PCM update disc I suspect the PCM has encountered an unexpected error or response will continue to wait for the proper response and/or attempt recovery ignoring all commands to eject the disc. IMHO the update code is written rather poorly and certainly doesn't have any fail/safe features (ie. interrogating the installed devices prior to rewriting, erasing, etc) to prevent system failures .

Faulty, dirty or corrupted discs are a different animal and chances are they will eject using the typical eject scenarios (ie. PCM reset (1-4-8), voltage toggle, rapid eject button pushing, security on/off, key on/off etc, etc).

2) If you have the initial PCM (Level 1.0 or S/W 4035) and Bose Amp you first must ensure that your Bose Amp is at S/W level 17500 as a minimum. I believe this is a hardware matter since I don't believe the PCM can handle the amp software upgrade to that level. Update disc 000.043.205.46.004 will only work if the amp is at a later level than the initial release.

FLASH

Took my car out this morning to run a few errands. On initial start-up I heard a clicking sound and lo and behold out pops the update disc. It either timed out (10 days in stuck status) or it decided it spent enough time in the PCM or some divine power gave it the 'eject command'. It's simply FM.

Anyway my new amp gets installed on Wednesday and hopefully that'll get me back on a smooth update road.

Awesome news. If the damned CD would just pop out of mine it would make taking this to the dealer to have it sorted so much easier (and potentially less expensive). I suppose I could wait it out.

Did you drive the car at all over those 10 days or was it parked without you starting the car. I thought about disconnecting the battery, but the thought of having to reset all the DME components, steering angle sensors, etc etc etc made me quickly change my mind.

Thanks, I have my fingers crossed for a speedy and (relatively) inexpensive recovery for your car!

- nick

Nick,

I drove the car off and on over the past 10 days. Of course every time I drove it I would push the eject button feverishly . . to no avail. Like I said in my earlier posts I tried all of the 'tricks' to get the disc to eject. None worked . . . . . it ejects when it wants to! Give it some time; yours might just decide to show it's face all by itself.

Arnie

Hi Vizcarra44,

1) I can tell you from personal experience every method or technique to eject a 'stuck' PCM update disc that the PCM is/was attempting to read short of removing the PCM and disassembly has been unsuccessful. None of them have worked in my case. If it's a PCM update disc I suspect the PCM has encountered an unexpected error or response will continue to wait for the proper response and/or attempt recovery ignoring all commands to eject the disc. IMHO the update code is written rather poorly and certainly doesn't have any fail/safe features (ie. interrogating the installed devices prior to rewriting, erasing, etc) to prevent system failures .

Faulty, dirty or corrupted discs are a different animal and chances are they will eject using the typical eject scenarios (ie. PCM reset (1-4-8), voltage toggle, rapid eject button pushing, security on/off, key on/off etc, etc).

2) If you have the initial PCM (Level 1.0 or S/W 4035) and Bose Amp you first must ensure that your Bose Amp is at S/W level 17500 as a minimum. I believe this is a hardware matter since I don't believe the PCM can handle the amp software upgrade to that level. Update disc 000.043.205.46.004 will only work if the amp is at a later level than the initial release.

FLASH

Took my car out this morning to run a few errands. On initial start-up I heard a clicking sound and lo and behold out pops the update disc. It either timed out (10 days in stuck status) or it decided it spent enough time in the PCM or some devine power gave it the 'eject command'. It's simply FM.

Anyway my new amp gets installed on Wednesday and hopefully that'll get me back on a smooth update road.

Man am I sorry I didnt get to this thread earlier. I roasted a bose amp as well trying to accomplish the update. As you said, that version of BOSE cannot be made to work with the new software. From what I could gather that amp only came installed in the very early build MY05s. I seem to remember a VIN split in the spare parts bulletin. Luckily my extended warranty covered a replacement amp and the new one came with the updated software already installed. With the new amp the MY08 nav update went smooth as butter.

This is exactly the route I'm taking. Dealer installs a 'new' amp on Wednesday which hopefully will enable the update and later NAV DVD usage.

'Experience is the best teacher'

Happy New Year

ps. Is your PCM the non phone configuration (ie. no SOS button, SIM slot, etc) version?

FLASH

Get in the car this morning and start it up to run some errands. Hear a clicking sound and lo and behold out slides the Update disc. I guess the PCM got tired of trying to read it or it simply timed out (10 days) or the disc decided on it's own to get the hell out of the PCM.

Nothing else to report . . . . new amp install still scheduled for Wednesday.

Hi Vizcarra44,

1) I can tell you from personal experience every method or technique to eject a 'stuck' PCM update disc that the PCM is/was attempting to read short of removing the PCM and disassembly has been unsuccessful. None of them have worked in my case. If it's a PCM update disc I suspect the PCM has encountered an unexpected error or response will continue to wait for the proper response and/or attempt recovery ignoring all commands to eject the disc. IMHO the update code is written rather poorly and certainly doesn't have any fail/safe features (ie. interrogating the installed devices prior to rewriting, erasing, etc) to prevent system failures .

Faulty, dirty or corrupted discs are a different animal and chances are they will eject using the typical eject scenarios (ie. PCM reset (1-4-8), voltage toggle, rapid eject button pushing, security on/off, key on/off etc, etc).

2) If you have the initial PCM (Level 1.0 or S/W 4035) and Bose Amp you first must ensure that your Bose Amp is at S/W level 17500 as a minimum. I believe this is a hardware matter since I don't believe the PCM can handle the amp software upgrade to that level. Update disc 000.043.205.46.004 will only work if the amp is at a later level than the initial release.

Were your screen shots before or after your attempted update? From the AMP screen shot I assume they were taken after since the 'Target/Actual' don't match.

You have a PCM w/ phone capabilities so it should be capable of MP3 playback w/ the proper software update. The initial PCM doesn't have the hardware to support MP3 files. There is a 'free' Porsche Technical bulletin and fix for this matter as long as the PCM was of the correct version.

I suspect you'll need a trip to your dealer to straighten things out. The PIWIS tool might (I repeat might) be able to reset and restore each of the devices as long as they haven't been corrupted or turned into bricks. Since you're still under warranty you can simply play dumb and say you had nothing to do with any this and have them 'fix it'.

As you now know the PCM, AMP and NAV need to be compatible from both a hardware & software level in order to go through a successful PCM & NAV update. There are numerous hardware levels of both PCMs and Amps that make this task troublesome at best. Porsche has numerous compatibility tables and charts regarding this matter. They are all geared to 'professional' Porsche service techs and reference internal documents, procedures & tools that make these upgrades difficult for the DIY type.

Good Luck!

Update . . .

From what I know understand a later version amp must be in installed prior to doing the PCM update from 'Initial Level' to 'Level A'. There is some 'hand shaking' that goes on between the PCM and amp and if they don't 'shake' correctly the early version amp turns into a 'brick'.

We'll be putting in a new amp next Wednesday to see if that allows the update to continue or at least restore the PCM to a operational state (ie. eject the cd).

Porsche has all sorts of configuration/compatibility tables regarding PCM, AMP & NAV hardware and software. They've created a fricking monster by not doing proper backward compatibility testing or at least documenting the 'pot holes' in a manner that can be understood. I suspect the new PCM (touch screen) will be even more problem laden due to it's increased complexity. On the other hand I thought I read somewhere that the new PCM is a Japanese product so it might be a smoother road since they tend to do a better job in this area.

My advice to anyone thinking about updating their PCM or NAV software is to carefully review/analyze all the 'gotchas' and if you're in doubt have your 'official' Porsche dealer do it. That way if something goes wrong they'll be accountable.

I'll provide my next update after the new amp is installed.

Happy New Year to you all!

Hi!

Excellent insight provided regarding updating the PCM navigation. I have EXACTLY the same SW-version for amp, pcm, navigation, etc, like in your provided screen-shots. I assume that you also have the launch-car spec. My car is a 07/04 european version but with the same sw-version like I mentioned already.

I'm also in the process of updating to the latest map here in Europe and I'm eager to understand if it's possible to update and if it's secure to update. I actually already have the two update-CD's that come with the 2006-update package and also have the navigation DVD's for 04/2005, 10/2005 and 04/2006.

My question is now if I will destroy something by running this update. I have read about someone who failed and that the BOSE-amp stopped to function, which I understand is due to out-of-sync SW-version when PCM is updated to a later SW and BOSE still uses an old version.

I don't have the update disc that is mentioned above that should update to "level A".

Have you sucessfully updated your system? I'm really eager to update my system but would really appreciate feedback from you who seems to have the exact same baseline like I have.

Many thanks in advance for all advice I can get!

Regards

Lukas

Lukas,

Beware . . . . .

I tried the Level A upgrade a few days ago and I suspect I've turned my amp into a brick. The Level A upgrade disc reported a failure when trying to download the new amp software. It sent a screen message to remove the upgrade disc and reinsert it. Unfortunately it won't eject from the PCM. I've tried every technique (ie. reset PCM via 148, remove the source power, etc, etc) but no success.

I'll be visiting my Porsche dealership service on Tuesday to see if they can restore the PCM & Amp via PIWIS. I spoke to their PCM specialist last week and he said I would have no problem doing the Initial Version to Level A. WRONG!

I wish I had followed my 'normal' advice . . . . If it ain't broken don't fix it.

I'll keep you updated after my service visit.

Cheers,

Arnie

Thanks AP. After reading more I will set up the PSE to be completely under my control with my own switch.

Can I ask where you found the Porsche PET (exploded view) diagrams?

Thanks,

John

John,

Wise choice regarding the switch. You'll love being able to turn off the PSE in underground garages, late at night in a residential area, with the wifey or along side 'the law'. BTW: You'll want to pick off a switched 12 volt signal for the PSE switch wiring. That way nothing to the PSE will be active when your car is turned off.

Loren beat me to the punch regarding the PET. The interior trim is located in Group 8. It's all illustrations w/ part name/number/quantity but you'll get the idea how most things fit together.

Good Luck . . . . .

John,

First off I would strongly recommend using a separate switch for controlling the PSE. You'll find that more to your liking (you control the 'sound' rather than the DME). It's the most popular method of implementing a post factory install PSE.

Here's an image of my switch which is located in the ash tray compartment.

The wiring part is as you know the more difficult task. As you discovered the documentation doesn't cover any of the part. I carefully examined and removed the required panels and such. Most are attached w/ plastic tabs so you need to exercise some caution prying them loose. I simply removed the front passenger seat (this also lets you route the wire(s) up into the center console as well) and routed the wires from the switch under the carpet, along the plastic threshold, snaked them behind the rear passenger side trim pieces and then through the engine compartment bulkhead grommet. It's a tedious, time consuming, tight and careful process. You certainly don't want to break any of the plastic tabs from the trim pieces. Figure on spending most of a day just routing the wiring. The grommet is a really thick and tough rubber so it was really difficult trying to make a small port hole to put the wire set through. If you're small in size it'll be a plus. Working in the rear seat area is a job for small people. I'm 6'1" so it wasn't a fun job. I doubt whether I'd want to do it again.

The muffler install is relatively easy as is the vacuum line hook ups and solenoid install.

I used the Porsche PET diagrams (exploded views) to better understand the trim pieces and their methods of fastening.

I don't recall any step-by-step instructions that have been created by any board member(s).

Be patient and careful and all will turn out fine.

Good luck!

Just ordered the Level A update CD. Figured for $6 bucks its worth the try. If it successfully installs I should see the new S/W listed for the PCM and AMP when I bring up the S/W version screen.

I doubt very much if my dealer will perform the NAV Kit update at no charge even if I buy the kit from them. They would certainly want to charge me labor. At least thats been my experience w/ them. I might run down today and talk w/ the service adviser just to make sure.

I'll certainly post my findings and results when I have some.

berty987

Based on your last note it sounds like you're of the opinion my hardware (PCM & Bose) is at a level that is compatible as long as I update first to Level A using disc 000.043.205.46.004.

I just might buy the Level A CD first since it's only $6USD and see if my PCM accepts it and successfully updates to Level A. I believe Level A is compatible w/ my existing NAV DVD so all should be good. Once that is done I'll take the 'giant' step and update both PCM & NAV using NAV Kit 997.044.901.51 ($300USD)

If I follow the steps I just mentioned do you think I'll have to hook up to a PWIS for anything?

Once again thanks for the help.

berty987,

Thanks for the comprehensive reply.

You hit the nail right the head regarding my apprehension. My PCM, NAV and Bose are at the earliest levels in terms of both hardware and software. According to service records they have never been upgraded due to a service activity or maintenance actions.

Here's screen shots of my 997's software/hardware levels. As I said I believe they are still at 'Launch Car' levels.

I don't plan to do anything until I'm certain that my hardware (ie.BOSE Amp) is at a level that is compatible w/ the NAV Kit (997.044.901.51) and the Level A CD update (disc 000.043.205.46.004). The latest NAV Kit contains the PCM updates (post Level A) that alledgedly supports the latest NAV DVD. The last thing I want to do is to have to bring my car to the dealer in the event the PCM becomes inoperable due to my attempt to update it. It's been my experience that my local dealer's Techs are not that well trained and mainly want to simply replace parts.

Thanks again for the education.

Arnie

2. Yes, TSB 7/04 9110 PCM2.1 & BOSE Amplifier Spare Parts Requirements -- Jul 5, 2005

3. Check the same TSB for VIN and hardware levels.

Found the TSB in the library and also got a printable copy from my Porsche parts contact.

That TSB (at least at the initial reading) is the most convoluted and confusing document I've read in a long time. I plan to carefully read it again to attempt to make sense of it and determine if my PCM & Bose units are up to the level required for the update.

I think Porsche purposely writes Tech Bulletins in a confusing manner to deter DIY.

Did you read the TSBs on the subject?

Loren,

Yes . . . have the 'Installation & Conversion Instructions' (Service 32/07, dated Oct. 24, 2008)) sitting right in front of me now.

There are a number of questions that are raised by the 'Installation & Conversion Instructions'.

1. It mentions my PCM s/w Standard Level (04035) in paragraph 2.3.1. It states that I have to first update to Level A using a disc not in the kit. I checked this out and that disc is available for less than $7. No problem.

2. In the same paragraph (2.3.1.) mentions a possible Bose Amplifier udate (Bulletin #7/04). This is the area I'm concerned about. Is this Bulletin in the Renntech library?

3. All the illustrations and first steps refer to the next hardware level of the PCM. The one that added phone capabilities. My PCM hardware is the initial release (ie. no phone buttons, SIM slot, etc). More apprehension that this kit applies to my hardware level of PCM.

I believe the update kit 997.044.901.51 contains all the required PCM and NAV S/W updates as long as you start out at Level A. I don't think it covers the prerequisite hardware (ie. PCM, Bose Amplifier, etc) clearly enough. Hence my apprehension about throwing $300 at the kit and then discovering that I need newer hardware as well.

Any information, suggestions, ideas, etc would be of great benefit.

Thanks for the help.

Arnie

Anybody?

:thankyou:

Are there any US market MY2005 early build members in this forum that have upgraded their PCM 2.1 (Standard Version: PCM S/W 04035xxxx) and NAV DVD? If your PCM lacks the SOS button, SIM slot, etc you have the initial PCM 2.1 release (IE. Standard Version) and that's the one I'm querying about.

I believe the required steps are to first update the PCM Standard Version to Level A (using Porsche disc #00004320546004) and then update both PCM followed by the NAV to the latest levels (using NAV update disc(s) kit #99704490151). I concerned that the early build PCM (no phone capability) is not compatible w/ the updates I just mentioned.

If you've done the upgrade or have had the dealer do it can you share any information regarding problems, issues, etc with me? You can reply to this thread or send me a private message if you like.

I'm considering doing the update but don't want to throw $300 at it if it's going to be a major undertaking, problematic or cause other issues. I'm an experienced DIY'r so I'm not concerned w/ my ability to go through the update procedure and/or the required steps.

I searched all the forums and can't find any threads specifically covering this early build 2005 PCM/NAV upgrade so please don't answer w/ 'go do a search'.

Thanks in advance for any information or help.

Although not real close to Pasadena I buy my tires at Globe Tire in Manhattan Beach (Sepulveda Blvd). They stock or can get most brands and they'll try to match prices and have lots of experience and careful techs in the tire changing bays.

They also have a place in LA (Venice & La Cienaga (sp)). Not sure if the (2) stores are affiliated.

Good Luck . . .

I've got a Brey Krause R-2035 bracket in my 2005 997S. It can be mounted on either driver or passenger seat. I choose the driver seat so passengers wouldn't be affected.

I can't see installing it w/o taking out the seat (fairly easy job). If I recall you have to insert the bracket between the seat springs and foam material making the 'in-car' technique a bit tight if not impossible in my opinion.

Go to the Brey Krause site (bkauto.com) for more details and actual instructions (attached).

R2035.pdf

Problem solved . . . Oil drained and filter changed.

My neighbor had a #8 Easy Out that I just hammered into the the rounded out 8 mm hex hole and carefully backed out the drain plug. Pretty simple and I guess a common fix w/ aluminum drain plugs.

Filled up w/ nine (9) quarts of 0-40 Mobil One. Gauge show all bars so I guess it's full. I'll watch it awhile to make sure.

Thanks for all for your suggestions and help.

:) :) :) :)

Some folks have had luck taking the drain plug out with various tools.

How to remove stripped drain plug?

Drei Bond silicone - Type 1209 is the Porsche stuff.

Any engine builders high temperature silicone should work.

Thanks Loren for the info.

I guess it's a 'common' problem. I'll try to remove it while it's in using some the of techniques mentioned before I remove the pan.

Thanks again.

Long story not so short.

Went to change my oil & filter this morning and discovered the oil drain plug 8 mm hex plug was rounded and the 8 mm hex tool would just spin around. Evidently my Porsche dealer service shop over torque the drain plug and ruined it when they were searching for an oil leak early this year. I certainly don't plan to let them touch my car again.

So now I need to remove the pan (13 M6 X 20 torx screws) and remove the drain plug w/ either an easy out or drill it so it falls apart. I can do this while it's on the car but I think it's better dealing w/ the drain plug while the pan is removed. I don't want to get any aluminum chips from the drain plug drilling inside the motor. It's should be a pretty simple task.

No gasket is required but a sealant compound is specified (Porsche #000 043 204 73). I suspect it's just a prema-seal type of sealant (aluminum to aluminum high temperature) but I want to be sure. Does anybody know the details on this Porsche sealant compound or a suggestion on which type I should use?

Thanks for any suggestions or help.

What is the best option to iPod my 997 Turbo?

I don't know what the 'best' option is but I have a Dension Gateway 500. If you search a few other Porsche forums you'll find plenty of information.

I've had the Dension in my 2005 997S for just about a year. After Dension reworked the F/W (easy customer update) a couple of times it's been rock solid. I use a 30 gb IPOD hidden in the trunk (w/ the Dension unit). The Dension via the PCM provides an 'OK' interface. It basically clones the CD changer.

Hope this helps.