COBB Tuning Blog

Over on the Mazdaspeedforums.org message board, username doubleflusher has taken his 2009 MS3 to over 500 horsepower using pump gas, meth injection, a FP HTA3582R, and AccessPORT tuning. The car is pushing over 30 psi and ran an 11.91 @ 122.48 at Atco Raceway. Head on over to the forums to check out this impressive power and visit COBBtuning.com to learn more about the AccessPORT!

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Take a ride with us as we show you what the COBB Tuning Gen 1 Mazdaspeed turbo-back exhaust sounds like inside and outside of the car. This downpipe and cat-back exhaust combination is great way to add power and make you car sound great! Visit COBBtuning.com for more information or call 866-922-3059.

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COBB Tuning has just released a firmware update for all AP-MAZ-002 AccessPORTs (07-12 MAZDASPEED3 and 06-07 MAZDASPEED6) that fixes a communications issue between the AccessPORT and the ECU, which can cause the AccessPORT to go into Recovery Mode prematurely. Once this occurs, the AccessPORT must be shipped to COBB Tuning for service. Firmware 1.6.5.0-3154 fixes this issue. We recommend updating to this latest firmware to prevent the AccessPORT from entering into Recovery Mode prematurely, which will cause several days of downtime due to shipping time and service time.

If you are unfamiliar with updating the firmware on your AccessPORT, please follow this link for Step-By-Step Firmware Update Instructions. Please feel free to contact us at 866-922-3059 or at tech@cobbtuning.com if you have any questions regarding this firmware update.

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After a long hiatus, the COBB Tuning 3″ Stainless Steel Catback Exhaust for the 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3 is back on our shelves! This 3″ SS Catback Exhaust was engineered specifically to match the performance needs of the MAZDASPEED3. The attention to detail that goes into the fabrication of this catback makes it a shame to hide it underneath the car. The catback is manufactured using mandrel-bent T304 stainless steel with a custom resonator and high-flow muffler for optimal performance and reliability. With its factory-like fit, attractive finish and subtle yet deep exhaust note safely 11 dB below the SAE J1169 sound limit, the COBB Tuning catback exhaust for the MAZDASPEED3 provides the best in performance, sound and aesthetics.

For more information, please visit our website at COBBTuning.com or call us at 866-922-3059.

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COBB Tuning is excited to announce new developments for the MAZDASPEED community. The COBB Tuning AccessPORT is the first OEM ECU tuning solution for the 2012 MAZDASPEED3, giving owners of the newest MAZDASPEED3 the same level of power and control enjoyed by previous model year owners. Our AccessTUNER software has also been updated to allow custom tuning by both professional tuners and DIY tuners alike. In addition, all of COBB Tuning has released a huge Off-The-Shelf calibration update, at no additional cost, that includes support for more intakes, improved post-shift performance, and boost targeting logic implemented on all model years of MAZDASPEED3 and MAZDASPEED6! Read on for more details about the work COBB Tuning is doing to make sure the AccessPORT is the most comprehensive tuning solution for MAZDASPEED performance enthusiasts.

2012 MAZDASPEED3 AccessPORT

The MAZDASPEED AccessPORT is now shipping with full 2012 MAZDASPEED3 support, preloaded with Off-The-Shelf maps to get new users up and running with the push of a button. All MAZDASPEED AccessPORTs (AP-MAZ-002) can be updated for free to support the 2012 MAZDASPEED3 with a simple firmware upgrade.

The 2012 MAZDASPEED3 AccessPORT will enable the same Boost Target Logic tuning released earlier this year, as well as have access to the massive database of free Off-The-Shelf maps with support for 13 different intake types and over 160 maps to choose from.

2012 MAZDASPEED3 AccessTUNER

Both AccessTUNER Race and AccessTUNER Pro tuning software packages have been updated to support the 2012 MAZDASPEED3. 2012 MAZDASPEED3 owners can bring their car to a professional tuner for a custom tune to maximize power output. Experienced self-tuners can download a free copy of AccessTUNER Race and make modifications to their own calibrations.
Both software packages have access to our database of Off-The-Shelf maps. These are great starting points for your custom tunes. Existing AccessTUNER users can update their existing software to the latest version following these Step-By-Step Software Update Instructions.

MAZDASPEED Off-The-Shelf Map Updates

All 1st and 2nd Gen MAZDASPEED3 and all MAZDASPEED6 maps have been updated to v2.10 and v2.00, respectively. Now all three platforms are tuned with Boost Target Logic for improved performance and consistency. Every platform now has free Off-The-Shelf maps for 13 different intake configurations, as well as maps for other common modifications, such as; turbo inlet hoses, intercoolers, downpipes and exhausts. Furthermore, these maps also include fixes to eliminate post-shift stutter and post-shift lean conditions some vehicles are experiencing. In all, over 160 maps are available for MAZDASPEED3’s and MAZDASPEED6’s, by far the largest selection of plug-and-play calibrations for the MAZDASPEED direct injection engine!

All AccessPORTs must be updated to firmware 1.6.5.0-2992 or later to utilize these new maps. Follow this Step-By-Step Firmware Update Guide to quickly and easily update the firmware on your AccessPORT. To see the latest maps available for your application, please visit the MAZDASPEED AccessPORT Map Database. Just follow this Step-By-Step Map Download and Transfer Guide to learn how to get a map from our database onto your ECU.

AccessPORT Firmware Update

In addition to 2012 MAZDASPEED3 support, the AP-MAZ-002 firmware receives several feature updates.

Monitors

• HPFP Desired Pressure and HPFP Sensor Voltage monitors were added to 2007-2012 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6
• DI Fuel Pressure was renamed to HPFP Actual Pressure on 2007-2012 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6
  Accelerator Pedal Position was added to 2010-2012 MAZDASPEED3
• The Boost Limit Cap now reads past the factory limit of 22.34psi on 2010-2012 MAZDASPEED3

Follow this Step-By-Step Firmware Update Guide to quickly and easily update the firmware on your AccessPORT.

AccessTUNER Software Updates

In addition to 2012 MAZDASPEED support, both AccessTUNER Race and AccessTUNER Pro receive several new features.

Monitors
The same monitor changes that were implemented in the firmware have also been implemented in AccessTUNER.

• HPFP Desired Pressure and HPFP Sensor Voltage monitors were added to 2007-2012 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6
• DI Fuel Pressure was renamed to HPFP Actual Pressure on 2007-2012 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6
• Accelerator Pedal Position was added to 2010-2012 MAZDASPEED3
• The Boost Limit Cap now reads past the factory limit of 22.34psi on 2010-2012 MAZDASPEED3

Tables
Many table changes were implemented on the 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3, 2010-2012 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6. Please see the MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER Release Notes for a full list of changes.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes
All Diagnostic Trouble Codes for each ECU type has been exposed and each has a toggle to enable/disable the DTC. For a full list in AccessTUNER, navigate to Edit > Advanced Parameters > DTC (Base).

Tuning Guide
The Tuning Guide has been revised to version 2.10, and includes the latest tuning strategies for Boost Target Tuning Logic and in-depth table descriptions.

Existing AccessTUNER users can update their existing software to the latest version following these Step-By-Step Software Update Instructions. If you do not have AccessTUNER Race, fill out the form AccessTUNER Race Request Form to receive a download link.

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11 second quarter miles times usually come with names like GT-R, Z06, Viper, or 911. But now there’s a new one: Mazdaspeed3. Anthony in Idaho is the first MS3 owner to run an 11 second 1/4 mile time, a feat even more impressive noting that he is 3000 ft above sea level. Using an ATP GTX3071 stock location turbo, 25” Toyo slicks, and tuning via the AccessPORT, he hopes to get these times even lower.

Anthony started drag racing in high school with a ’59 Short Bed Ford truck with a 251 Cleveland. At the time, he thought his 15.9 was insanely fast. Over a span of 12 years, he’s accrued 3 track championships in bracket racing, raced his 2005 Evolution, and now pulls 1.7 60ft times in his MS3. His tricks of the trade? “60ft time are the key to good E.T.s. Though a high trap speed is always more fun!”

The base tune on the car was done by Tim Bailey at COBB Tuning Surgeline in Portland, OR. Since then, Anthony has used AccessTUNER Race to adjust for his various modifications. Using the AccessPORT, Anthony can monitor live data, take logs taking advantage of the factory wideband O2 sensor, and switch maps quickly to go from his daily driver tune to his all out racing maps. Future plans include an aftermarket intake manifold and a nice set of cams, but first on his list is upgrading the brakes. “All that extra power needs to be kept in check!”

Congratulations to Anthony and his very impressive Mazdaspeed3 ¼ mile times! You can keep up to date on his progress on the mazdaspeedforums.org forums and learn more about the AccessPORT at COBBtuning.com.

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Records are meant to be broken, and horsepower records are no exception. These barriers are often brought down through testing, experimentation and lots of boost. Where there is a will, there is a way, and the COBB Tuning AccessPORT is the key. Members of the MAZDASPEED community have been hard at work pushing the limits of their vehicles as the direct injection engine presents special challenges to making big power. Thanks to a few dedicated individuals, they are realizing their goals with lots of boost and the COBB Tuning AccessPORT!

MAZDASPEEDFoums.org user Erich “The Unicorn Slayer” and PTP Performance have been able to breech the 500whp MAZDASPEED barrier with this custom-built, monster MS3. Sporting a built-engine with forged internals, custom intake manifold, a Bullseye Power S259 BatMoWheel Billet Turbocharger and PTP high-pressure fuel pump upgrade, PTP was able to get just over 500 horsepower to the wheels on pump fuel and 530whp on race gas. Congratulations to Erich and PTP Performance for this record-breaking build!

For more information on how the AccessPORT can improve your MAZDASPEED experience, please visit our Product Information Page, visit the COBB Tuning Forums or call us at 866-922-3059. To join in on the COBB Tuning conversation, head over to our COBB Tuning Facebook page and click the LIKE button to stay plugged in, or follow us on Twitter.

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COBB Tuning announces the latest version of AccessTUNER for all MAZDASPEED vehicles offering significant enhancements. This new version of AccessTUNER incorporates COBB Tuning’s proprietary Boost Tuning capability for 1st and 2nd Gen MAZDASPEED3s, Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting for 2nd Gen (2010-2011) MAZDASPEED3s, as well as Fast Data Logging, improved 3D Graphing and many new tables for all MAZDASPEEDs!

Boost Tuning

AccessTUNER has been extensively updated to give MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER users greater control over boost control. Our latest Boost Tuning logic is now available for all 2007-2011 MAZDASPEED3 vehicles, allowing users to use this new boost control strategy on any calibration created with AccessTUNER. All previously released BETA Wastegate and Boost Control tables have been upgraded to final release as well. For a complete list of new and previously released tables, visit the AccessTUNER Update History page.

COBB Tuning has also just released a huge number of maps featuring calibrations for the most popular intakes and bolt-on parts for the 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3 with Boost Tuning already enabled that can be used as base maps for custom calibrations. For a complete list of calibrations visit the 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3 or 2010-2011 MAZDASPEED3 Online Map Databases.

A new V2.0 Tuning Guide is also included to assist users in tuning using the new Boost target logic.

Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting

Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting has been enabled for 2nd Gen (2010-2011) MAZDASPEED3 vehicles with this release, bringing these popular features to the entire MAZDASPEED line-up. All MS3 v2.00 and MS6 v1.07 COBB Tuning Off The Shelf calibrations are LC/FFS-ready.  Launch Control limits engine RPM to a user-set value when launching to build boost and increase launch consistency. Flat-Foot Shift allows the user to maintain wide-open-throttle during gear changes, keeping partial boost between shifts and improving acceleration post-shift.

The recent 1.6.4.2-2553firmware release enables Launch Control and Flat Foot shifting on 2nd Gen MAZDASPEED3’s and sets the limits at the factory rev limiter. This release of AccessTUNER software allows the Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting limiters to be adjusted and saved in the map.

Fast Data Logging

This update also includes Fast Data Logging for all MAZDASPEED AccessPORTs. Faster datalogging means more resolution in data logs, allowing users to see how the engine is behaving during high-speed and high-load conditions in greater detail. The Fast Data Logging feature is built into the latest maps for the MAZDASPEED3 and MAZDASPEED6 are available now for download. This feature applies to both v2 and v2b AccessPORTs.

Improved 3D Graphing

MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER software has received a 3D graphing facelift in the latest release. Both solid and wire 3D graphing styles have been improved. Solid 3D graphing is enhanced with a grid overlay and more intuitive color gradient. Wire 3D graphing is improved with finer wire drawing and higher contrast colors that are easier to view.

Here are some before and after examples of 3D graphing in the AccessTUNER software:

Post FFS Lean Condition and WOT Stutter Fixes for MAZDASPEED Vehicles

New fueling tables allow the users that are experiencing a lean condition following FFS (MAZDASPEED3/6) and the WOT Stutter (MAZDASPEED6) to make adjustments in these tables and resolve these issues. The following tables can be used to tune out this momentary lack of fuel to fix both the lean condition and the associated misfire or stutter:

• Ignition Timing Limit (Min) (Throttle Closed) – Set this value between -4 and -2 for best results.
• Ignition Timing Limit (Min) (Throttle Open) – Set this value between -4 and -2 for best results.
• Load Based Fuel Compensation (Clutch In) – Set all values to 1.0.
• Load Based Fuel Compensation (Clutch Out) – Set all values to 1.0.
• Load/RPM Based Fuel Compensation (Clutch In) – Set all values to 1.0.
• Load/RPM Based Fuel Compensation (Clutch Out) – Set all values to 1.0.

Additional table exposure and fixes:

• Added “Fuel OL Commanded EQ (base)”.
• Added “Fuel Commanded EQ Max Enrichment Allowed”.
• Renamed “Fuel OL/Part Throttle Commanded EQ(unused)” to “Fuel OL Commanded EQ(Throttle Closed)”.

The new MAZDASPEED3 v2.00 calibrations do not have these fixes implemented in them, the next round of calibrations will include these by default. The upcoming MAZDASPEED6 v2.00 calibrations will have this fix implemented.

Expanded Table Definitions

AccessTUNER Race has been expanded with more tables for better fueling, ignition and idle control. In addition, High Pressure Fuel Pump tables have been added that will allow users to scale the fuel pressure sensor allowing for the installation of very high-flow pumps. These new tables allow AccessTUNER users unprecedented control over their vehicles enabling unparalleled exploitation of “Big Turbo” setups and potentially, bio-fuel tunes. To see the entire list of table updated, visit the AccessTUNER Release Notes History.

Compatibility Update

An incompatibility exists between previous versions of our maps and the latest AccessPORT firmware release for the MAZDASPEED vehicles, which will lead to improper readings through the AccessPORT’s Live Data and/or Data Log features. In order to resolve this issue, please be sure to follow the steps below for the scenario that most closely matches your situation. To use these latest calibrations your AccessPORT must be updated to Firmware Version 1.6.4.2-2553 or later.

If you are using calibrations made with older versions of AccessTUNER or wish to use an older Off The Shelf calibration please update your calibrations using the following steps. Please be sure to download and install the latest version of AccessPORT Manager 2.0 before following any of the steps listed. Maps must be open and saved with AccessTUNER version 1.8.6.0-2517 or later to resolve compatibility issues.

* Updating when utilizing the latest Off-The-Shelf (OTS) calibrations

1. Update your AccessPORT firmware
2. Download the latest OTS maps
3. Transfer new maps to AccessPORT
4. Reflash vehicle with a newly downloaded map

* Updating when utilizing an AccessTUNER Race custom tune or old revision OTS calibration

1. Update your AccessPORT firmware
2. Request and download the latest version of AccessTUNER Race (if necessary)
3. Open and resave your custom/old revision calibration through AccessTUNER Race version     1.8.6.0-2517 or later
4. Transfer resaved map to AccessPORT
5. Reflash vehicle with resaved map

* Updating when utilizing an AccessTUNER Pro custom tune

1. Contact your professional tuner to request that your map be resaved
2. Update your AccessPORT firmware
3. Transfer newly saved map to AccessPORT
4. Reflash vehicle with newly saved map

We would like to stress that if you are using an old version of one of our OTS calibrations or an AccessTUNER Race custom tune with a new AccessPORT firmware revision, you can resolve this Data Log/Live Data issue by re-saving your map through the latest version of AccessTUNER Race, then flashing the newly saved map to your vehicle.

For a complete listing of new tables and features, please visit the MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER Release Notes History page. Additional help documents can be found on the COBB Tuning Forums or visit the AccessTUNER Tuning Guide.

For more information on AccessTUNER or to download your copy of AccessTUNER Race, visit our AccessTUNER Race Information Page or go directly to the Download Request Form to get your copy today!

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COBB Tuning is happy to announce new features and calibration updates for all MAZDASPEED vehicles. This update includes Boost Tuning for 1st Gen (2007-2009) MAZDASPEED3s, Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting enabled for 2nd Gen (2010-2011) MAZDASPEED3 and Fast Data Logging for all MAZDASPEED3s and MAZDASPEED6s. Boost Tuning logic for the MAZDASPEED6 is still in development and will be released at a later date.

These features are available through a combination firmware updates and new maps. The updated maps for the MAZDASPEED3 are available for Stage1 and Stage2 cars with the stock intake, the COBB SF intake and several other intakes as well as calibrations for turbo inlet pipes, intercoolers and other go-fast, bolt-on parts. Now every model year of the MAZDASPEED3 line-up has over 110 Off-The-Shelf maps to choose from, making the AccessPORT the leader in plug-and-play ECU tuning!

Boost Tuning

COBB Tuning is the leading innovator in MAZDASPEED3  aftermarket performance ECU Tuning. Our proprietary industry-leading Boost Tuning logic has performed extremely well on the 2010-2011 MAZDASPEED3 vehicles. Over the past several months we have offered Boost Tuning calibrations and tuning software in BETA format for the 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3 with very positive results. These calibrations are now available in final release form, giving 2007-2009 MAZDASPEED3 owners the superior performance of Boost Tuning and over 110 maps to choose from!  In addition, current non-boost tuning calibrations can be converted via AccessTUNER for better boost control.

The stock ECU logic uses load targets to determine power output and dynamically adjusts boost pressure to meet those targets. Early on, COBB Tuning recognized that this was a cumbersome way of controlling boost and could result in erratic boost control and sub-optimal performance. To rectify this, COBB Tuning developed new logic instructing the ECU to target boost instead of load.

This “Boost Tuning” strategy allows for much more consistent boost control for a more linear and consistent boost curve which means improved power delivery for your MAZDASPEED vehicle. Boost Tuning on the OEM ECU is ONLY available on the COBB Tuning AccessPORT.

Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting

COBB Tuning is pleased to announce the availability of Launch Control and Flat-Foot Shifting for 2nd Gen (2010-2011) MAZDASPEED3s. Launch Control limits engine RPM to a user-set value when launching to build boost and increase launch consistency. Flat-Foot Shift allows the user to maintain wide-open-throttle during gear changes, keeping partial boost between shifts and improving acceleration post-shift.

This firmware release enables Launch Control and Flat Foot shifting on 2nd Gen MAZDASPEED3’s and sets the limits at the factory rev limiter. The latest release of AccessTUNER software allows the Launch Control and Flat Foot Shifting limiters to be adjusted and saved in the map. Click this link to learn more about the latest MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER release.

Fast Data Logging

This update also includes Fast Data Logging for all MAZDASPEED AccessPORTs. Faster datalogging means more resolution in data logs, allowing users to see how the engine is behaving during high-speed and high-load conditions in greater detail. The Fast Data Logging feature is built into the latest maps for the MAZDASPEED3 and MAZDASPEED6 are available now for download. This feature applies to both v2 and v2b AccessPORTs.

Compatibility Update

An incompatibility exists between previous versions of our maps and the latest AccessPORT firmware release for the MAZDASPEED vehicles, which will lead to improper readings through the AccessPORT’s Live Data and/or Data Log features. In order to resolve this issue, please be sure to follow the steps below for the scenario that most closely matches your situation. To use these latest calibrations your AccessPORT must be updated to Firmware Version 1.6.4.2-2553 or later.

If you are using calibrations made with older versions of AccessTUNER or wish to use an older Off The Shelf calibration please update your calibrations using the following steps. Please be sure to download and install the latest version of AccessPORT Manager 2.0 before following any of the steps listed. Maps must be open and saved with AccessTUNER version 1.8.6.0-2517 or later to resolve compatibility issues.

* Updating when utilizing the latest Off-The-Shelf (OTS) calibrations

1. Update your AccessPORT firmware
2. Download the latest OTS maps
3. Transfer new maps to AccessPORT
4. Reflash vehicle with a newly downloaded map

* Updating when utilizing an AccessTUNER Race custom tune or old revision OTS calibration

1. Update your AccessPORT firmware
2. Request and download the latest version of AccessTUNER Race (if necessary)
3. Open and resave your custom/old revision calibration through AccessTUNER Race version     1.8.6.0-2517 or later
4. Transfer resaved map to AccessPORT
5. Reflash vehicle with resaved map

* Updating when utilizing an AccessTUNER Pro custom tune

1. Contact your professional tuner to request that your map be resaved
2. Update your AccessPORT firmware
3. Transfer newly saved map to AccessPORT
4. Reflash vehicle with newly saved map

We would like to stress that if you are using an old version of one of our OTS calibrations or an AccessTUNER Race custom tune with a new AccessPORT firmware revision, you can resolve this Data Log/Live Data issue by re-saving your map through the latest version of AccessTUNER Race, then flashing the newly saved map to your vehicle.

Download Calibrations

For a complete list of available calibrations, visit our Online Map Database for your MAZDASPEED3 or MAZDASPEED6.

More information regarding all of these updates can be found in the MAZDASPEED AccessPORT Firmware Release Notes and the MAZDASPEED AccessTUNER Software Release Notes.

For more information on how the AccessPORT can improve your MAZDASPEED experience, please visit our Product Information Page, visit the COBB Tuning Forums or call us at 866-922-3059. To join in on the COBB Tuning conversation, head over to our COBB Tuning Facebook page and click the LIKE button to stay plugged in, or follow us on Twitter.

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We are currently investigating an issue concerning AccessTUNER users with AP-MAZ-002 AccessPORTs (2007-2011 MAZDASPEED3 and 2006-2007 MAZDASPEED6). The AP can become unresponsive after consecutive pass-through flashes which could potentially lead to failed flashes. If the AccessPORT does not detect the ECU in recovery mode, customers will be required to send the ECU and AccessPORT in for service. Please see a summary of the issue below, and if you have any questions or concerns, please contact Customer Support at 866-922-3059.

• Affects: AP-MAZ-002 AccessPORTs tuned with AccessTUNER Race or AccessTUNER Pro.
• Issue: AccessPORT becomes un-responsive. Incomplete flashes can cause ECU to go in to recovery mode.
• Cause: AccessPORT slows down with consecutive pass-through flashes.
• Work Around: Unplug the AccessPORT from the computer and the vehicle to power down after each pass-though flash.
• Resolution: The issue is currently being investigated and we are improving recovery detection and pass-through capabilities. This issue will be resolved in an upcoming firmware release.

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