How the Software Works
This article breaks down what the OBDtune software changes in the ECU and how it affects SCR/DEF (AdBlue), DPF, EGR, and EKAS (swirl flaps). It also shows what’s required vs. optional mechanically and which options each change applies to.
Table of Contents
This section details how OBDTune software affects each component of the Emission Control System. We cover all available configurations of our module, explaining how our products function in different scenarios and the engineering logic behind them.
SCR/DEF (AdBlue)
How the software affects the system
DEF and NOx-related control triggers are disabled/modified — these are the triggers that typically cause warnings, reduced power/derate events, and the “starts remaining” countdown. As a result, DEF is no longer the source of limitation events and recurring drivability issues.
DEF consumption: if the DEF hardware is working without malfunctions, it may continue to use DEF fluid. The key difference is that the vehicle will not restrict driving when the DEF tank runs empty or the system malfunctions.
If your DEF system is healthy and you want to keep it operating normally, just keep topping up DEF as usual. Otherwise you can stop refilling DEF.
Mechanical changes
Not required, since the change is applied at the DEF control-logic level.
Where it applies
- SCR AdBlue / DEF Delete ($699)
- Package Deal With DPF Active” ($999)
- Package Deal With DPF Delete” ($999)
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
How the software affects the system
There are two different DPF modes, depending on which solution you choose:
1. For Package Deal With DPF Active:
- The DPF strategy remains OEM: regeneration, monitoring, and DPF protection logic continue operating as designed.
- It means: if the DPF is healthy, the van behaves normally. If the DPF is truly getting restricted, the ECU can still command regens and/or trigger DPF-related limitation events.
2. For Package Deal With DPF Delete (including DPF delete):
- The DPF strategy is disabled: the ECU no longer commands regenerations and no longer runs DPF-driven limitation scenarios (frequent regens, DPF Full, DPF-related derate/limp behavior).
- The goal is to remove drivability dependence on the DPF once the filter becomes clogged.
Mechanical changes
1. For Package Deal With DPF Active:
NO mechanical changes are required, since the DPF remains in its stock configuration.
2. For Package Deal With DPF Delete(including DPF delete):
- Mechanical changes ARE REQUIRED. Right before or right after the installation, the DPF and the SCR catalyst must be removed from the exhaust system.
- In practice, there are two common approaches:
- install an aftermarket delete pipe (or)
- gut the OEM housing (remove the internal substrate while keeping the factory exhaust body)
- In many cases, gutting the OEM housing is the better option for reliability and comfort because:
- all sensors stay in their factory locations with correct geometry
- you reduce the risk of issues caused by incorrect bung placement, fitment problems, or leaks that can occur with some aftermarket pipes
- the OEM housing acts like a resonator/muffler, so exhaust sound often stays closer to stock (less drone and less “metallic” tone)
- even if an aftermarket pipe includes a resonator, it’s often not enough (especially on Sprinter) and an additional resonator may still be needed
- you can save money by avoiding the cost and shipping of a replacement pipe while maintaining comfort and reliability
Where it applies
DPF is modified ONLY as a part of Package Deal With DPF Delete” ($999).
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
How the software affects the system
EGR control logic is disabled/modified — this is the part of the ECU strategy that typically triggers EGR fault codes, warnings, and reduced-power/derate behavior when the EGR valve, cooler, or EGR flow becomes unstable (carbon buildup, sticking, flow deviations, etc.).
The EGR valve may still move normally. The software does not “lock” the valve in a forced closed position.
Mechanical changes
Not required in most cases. The valve can continue to move and typically won’t cause drivability issues unless it sticks (or is already stuck) in the open position.
If you want the valve to stay closed to reduce intake contamination and eliminate the risk of an open-stuck valve, you can unplug the EGR connector and manually rotate the valve to the closed position. We don’t publish step-by-step instructions in the Help Center and recommend contacting experienced mechanics.
Where it applies
- Package Deal With DPF Active ($999)
- Package Deal With Delete ($999)
EKAS (Intake Swirl Flaps)
How the software affects the system
EKAS (swirl flap) control logic is disabled/modified — this is the part of the ECU strategy that typically triggers swirl flap fault codes, warnings, and reduced-power/derate behavior when the flap mechanism or actuator becomes unreliable (carbon buildup, play/wear, sticking, position/adaptation errors, etc.).
The swirl flaps may still move normally. The software does not “lock” them in a fixed position.
Mechanical changes
Not required, since the change is applied at the ECU control-logic level.
If the swirl flaps are physically damaged or jammed and causing a mechanical issue, you have two options:
- clean the intake manifold so the flaps can move freely again (or)
- remove the swirl flaps entirely (mechanical solution)
Where it applies
- Package Deal With DPF Active ($999)
- Package Deal With DPF Delete ($999)
ECU Tune (Stage 1)
How the software affects the system
Optimizes factory engine calibration to improve throttle response, torque delivery, and overall drivability while staying within safe operating limits.
Delivers smoother, more consistent pulling power — most noticeable on take-off, on grades, and when the vehicle is loaded.
Adjusts engine parameters to help manage operating temperatures and exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) for safe operation during extended driving.
Fuel consumption may improve during steady cruising and light-throttle driving (and in some cases at idle), as the engine operates more efficiently at lower RPM.
Aligns engine operation with the selected emissions setup (“With DPF Active” or “With DPF Delete”) to reduce the chance of related fault triggers, warning lights, or limp/derate events.
All changes are kept within conservative, reliability-first margins suitable for daily driving, commercial use, and long-term operation.
Mechanical changes
Not required, since the change is applied at the ECU calibration level.
Where it applies
- Package Deal With DPF Active ($999)
- Package Deal With DPF Delete ($999)
- DEF tank: removal is not required. After a successful installation, you may optionally drain or remove the DEF tank, but it is not necessary for the software solution to work.
- DEF injector (doser): removal is not required. If the injector/DEF line has a mechanical issue (leak, heavy crystallization, etc.), that’s a separate mechanical service issue — not a software requirement.
- NOx sensors: removal is not required. However, if a sensor has a critical electrical failure that disrupts CAN bus communication or causes wiring issues, it must be repaired, replaced, or electrically isolated as a hardware fix.
