Question 1

What is an EK1 and what does the EK1 actually do?

Accepted Answer

The EK1 is a flashing and diagnostic device used to communicate with supported Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis ECUs and TCUs. For KJT customers, its main purpose is to identify the ECU calibration and write KJT tuning files to the ECU. The EK1 is not the tune itself. The KJT calibration is the tune, while the EK1 is the tool used to load that calibration.

Question 2

What is the difference between the EK1 Mini2+ and EK1V3?

Accepted Answer

The Mini2+ is a handheld unit that uses its own interface and SD-card workflow. The newer EK1V3 uses the EK1 Mobile Android application to register the device, identify the ECU and TCU, manage EKR files, flash, log, and handle diagnostics. The V3 is not VIN-locked and can be used on multiple supported vehicles. Follow the instructions for your specific EK1 model because the workflows are different.

Question 3

I just bought an EK1. What should I do before loading my first KJT tune?

Accepted Answer

Update the EK1 to current firmware first. On a Stinger or G70 3.3T using an EK1 Pro, Lite, or Mini2+, connect the EK1, turn the ignition fully ON with the engine OFF, then go to Power Mode > Read ECU ID > SIM2K-260[BL]. Record the exact ECU Calibration ID, EK1 serial number, and last six digits of the VIN. Obtain and safely store the correct OEM Original and/or Recovery file for that exact calibration. For a current KJT BEF+, make sure the ECU has been boot-patched under the OEM calibration as KJT requires. When KJT sends the EKR tune, place it in the Maps folder on the EK1 SD card. With stable battery voltage, ignition ON, and engine OFF, select Power Mode > Write ECU and choose the correct file. Do not interrupt the write. EK1V3 users should follow the Android-app workflow instead.

Question 4

How do I find my ECU Calibration ID?

Accepted Answer

On a 3.3T Stinger or G70 using the traditional EK1 interface, turn the ignition fully ON with the engine OFF and select Power Mode > Read ECU ID > SIM2K-260[BL]. Record the complete Calibration ID exactly as displayed. Do not shorten it or substitute one from another vehicle.

Question 5

What information does KJT need to make my tune?

Accepted Answer

KJT currently requests the ECU Calibration ID, EK1 serial number, and last six digits of the vehicle VIN for BEF+ and full ECU tune orders. Provide each value exactly as displayed or printed rather than guessing from model year or trim.

Question 6

How do I save my stock tune before flashing?

Accepted Answer

Do not blindly perform a full ECU read and assume the resulting file is a complete factory backup. First record the exact factory Calibration ID. Then obtain the matching OEM Original file and, when required, the proper Recovery file for that calibration. KJT specifically tells current BEF+ customers to have the full OEM file and/or Recovery file available. Keep copies somewhere other than the EK1 SD card, such as your computer and a separate backup location.

Question 7

What is the difference between an EK1 Original file and a Recovery file?

Accepted Answer

An Original file is used to restore the ECU to stock calibration values. A Recovery file is intended to recover ECU data when an ECU has become corrupted or bricked. They serve different purposes. If you are returning a functioning tuned ECU to stock, you normally need the correct Recovery file for your exact calibration.

Question 8

Can I read my ECU through OBD and create my own complete factory backup?

Accepted Answer

Do not assume so. The EK1 can read the ECU ID through OBD on the 3.3T, but current EKR workflows may identify the ECU application or Calibration ID without generating a complete original ECU file. If a full ECU read is needed for an unknown calibration, EK1 documents a separate SIM2K-260 bench-cable process. The safe approach is to identify the exact calibration and obtain the proper matching Original and Recovery files.

Question 9

Do I need to boot-patch my ECU before installing a KJT BEF+?

Accepted Answer

For KJT's current BEF+ instructions, yes. KJT states that the ECU should be boot-patched under the OEM calibration and that the customer should have the full OEM file and/or Recovery file available. Other tuners may use different EKR procedures, so follow the current instructions supplied with your KJT tune.

Question 10

When would I need the EK1 bench cable?

Accepted Answer

A normal customer with a known supported Calibration ID should not assume a bench read is required. The SIM2K-260 bench procedure is used when a full ECU read is needed, such as when EK1 does not already have the calibration. If you are unsure, contact KJT or EK1 support before attempting a bench read.

Question 11

Where do I put my KJT EKR tune file?

Accepted Answer

For an EK1 Pro, Lite, or Mini2+, place the EKR file inside the Maps folder on the EK1 SD card, then safely eject the card and reinstall it in the EK1. EK1V3 users can place the file in the device's Maps folder or import it through the EK1 Mobile Android app, depending on the current V3 workflow.

Question 12

How do I flash a KJT tune with the EK1?

Accepted Answer

Verify that the file matches your vehicle and Calibration ID. Maintain stable battery voltage. Turn the ignition fully ON with the engine OFF. On the traditional EK1 interface, select Power Mode > Write ECU, choose the correct KJT EKR file, and begin the write. Do not unplug the EK1, remove the SD card, turn off the ignition, or operate unnecessary accessories while programming is underway. Follow the ignition-cycle instructions shown by the device after a successful write.

Question 13

Can I unplug the EK1 after the tune is successfully installed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The EK1 is the flashing tool. Once the calibration has been successfully written to the ECU or TCU and the required ignition cycle is complete, the EK1 does not need to remain connected for the flashed calibration to operate. Keep the EK1 and your files for future tune changes, updates, stock restoration, or recovery.

Question 14

How do I return my ECU to stock?

Accepted Answer

Use the correct EK1 Original file that matches your exact ECU calibration. Do not choose a stock file based only on year, engine, or trim. A Recovery file serves a different purpose and is intended for ECU recovery. If you are not completely sure which file belongs to your ECU, contact KJT or EK1 support before writing anything.

Question 15

What should I do if an EK1 flash fails or the car will not start afterward?

Accepted Answer

Do not experiment with random Original, Recovery, patch, or tune files. Record the exact error message and filename being written, keep the vehicle's electrical system stable, confirm your Calibration ID, and contact KJT or EK1 support. Provide the VIN, EK1 serial number, Calibration ID, exact file used, and the point where the write failed. Use only the correct Recovery file and procedure for that ECU.

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