Programming the Engine Control Module (ECM) of Chevrolet with RLink J2534 and SPS2 Software
Preparations Before Programming
I. Preparatory Requirements
- Prepare a computer pre-installed with OE software and ensure sufficient power. Tips: It is recommended to connect the PC to a power source throughout the programming process to avoid interruptions due to power failure.
- The computer must be connected to a wired network with a download speed of ≥5M/s. Some ECUs contain large data volumes; excessively high network latency or disconnection will directly result in programming failure.
- Connect the vehicle to a dedicated regulated power supply for programming, maintaining the voltage within the range of 13.2V—14.5V. Voltage fluctuations can cause programming failure, so stable power supply is critical.
- Park the vehicle on a flat surface to prevent rolling. An inclined surface may lead to accidents during programming.
II. Pre-Programming Check Points
- Inspect the ECU’s power supply and ground circuits for normal operation, and confirm that the information of the ECU to be programmed is fully consistent with that of the current vehicle’s ECU.
- If using a refurbished ECU for programming, strictly follow the manufacturer’s operating guidelines. Some refurbished ECUs (e.g., anti-theft-related ones) cannot pass the verification of the original OEM software, and used ECUs may require data erasure before use; otherwise, programming failure will occur.
- It is recommended to prioritize a new ECU for programming, and a regulated power supply must be connected during the process.
III. Programming Process Specifications
- During programming, carefully read the operation prompts in the OEM software, follow the steps strictly, and do not perform unauthorized operations.
IV. Solutions for Programming Failure
- After a programming failure, first check the vehicle status and the connection of the diagnostic equipment for normality.
- If the status is normal, it is recommended to let the vehicle hibernate for 30 minutes before attempting programming again. Tips: After a programming failure, the ECU of some vehicles will cache error data, making direct retries unsuccessful. Powering off or hibernating the vehicle can clear the cached error data and improve the success rate of retries.
Note: Whenever possible, use a new ECU for programming, and ensure a regulated power supply is connected during the process.
Take out the RLink device, connect it to the vehicle’s OBD diagnostic port and the computer’s USB port respectively, and ensure a secure connection.

After the device is properly connected, launch the RLink Platform software. Confirm the vehicle connection status via the connection information in the platform and verify that the driver has been downloaded.
Note: Before programming with SPS2 software, it is recommended to log in to your RLink Platform account to check for software or firmware updates. If updates are available, install them before proceeding with vehicle programming.

Open the GM official website and click [View] to run the subscribed SPS2 software.
Note: The software description information will be dynamically updated; the final version shall prevail as published on the GM official website.

Click [Add Vin] to enter the VIN code of the vehicle to be programmed.
Note: After binding the vehicle, the subscribed programming permission will be linked to this specific vehicle and cannot be used for programming any other vehicles thereafter.

Select [Launch TLC with administrative privileges] and click [Launch Techline Connect] to start the Techline software.
Important Note: If the relevant Techline software is not installed, the system will automatically initiate the installation process after launching Techline. Since the installation may take a considerable amount of time, ensure sufficient advance time is reserved to complete it and guarantee smooth subsequent operations.

After entering the diagnostic software homepage, click [Connect Vehicle], then select the corresponding driver mode.

Choose either [RLink] driver mode or [RLink DOIP] driver mode from the options (both modes are compatible with RLink device connection), and click [Continue] after selection.
Important Note: For diagnostic operations on vehicles with the DOIP protocol, [RLink DOIP] driver mode must be selected exclusively; otherwise, normal connection cannot be established.

Once the RLink VCI successfully connects to the vehicle, the system will automatically read the relevant vehicle information. After carefully verifying the accuracy of the information, click the [SPS] icon to enter the programming operation page.

Before accessing the SPS programming software, the SPS software will automatically start a verification program to compare and validate the vehicle information against the server information.
Important Note: The verified vehicle information must be consistent with the subscription information; otherwise, reading or verification failure will occur. During verification and subsequent programming, maintain network stability and prioritize a wired network to ensure smooth programming.

After confirming the programming requirements, select [Reprogram] mode and click [Next] to proceed to the next step.
Important Note:
- Some software versions include a work order filling function. If this option is not available, no filling is required—directly select the programming mode.
- The mode selection must accurately match the vehicle condition: select [Reprogram] mode if the ECU has not been replaced, and [Replace and Reprogram] mode if a new ECU is installed. During the subsequent download of programming files, the SPS2 software will retrieve the relevant files based on this selection to reduce the risk of programming failure.

Select [K20 Engine Control Module] and click [NEXT].

Engine programming may require reconfirming the VCI device connection. Select the RLink mode and click [Connect].

Before programming, confirm that the vehicle’s diagnostic power supply and RLink VCI connection are normal, then click [Start Programming].

Programming in Progress
Prompt: Do not exit the software midway during programming; otherwise, the ECU may be damaged.

Once the engine control module programming is completed, click [OK].

After programming, click the [GDS2] icon to enter the diagnostic system and match the engine control module.

Confirm the vehicle information is correct and click [Enter].

Select [Module Diagnostics] and then click [Enter].

Choose [K20 Engine Control Module] and click [Enter] to proceed to the next step.

Directly click [Configuration/Reset Functions] to perform data matching for the engine control module.

Click [Learn Functions] to access the sensor learning menu.

Match the sensors displayed in the software.
Note: Before matching, confirm that the sensors and their wiring are in normal condition; any faults will prevent successful matching.

After matching is completed, clear all fault codes and conduct a vehicle road test.
