Posted on by

How to Log Your BMW Using VehiCAL Logger | TRM Tuning

VehiCAL Logger is an advanced data-logging tool for BMW ECUs, ideal for performance diagnostics, remote tuning, and calibration refinement. It allows TRM Tuning customers to collect precise engine data directly from the ECU and share it for custom tuning or troubleshooting. This guide covers how to install, configure, and use VehiCAL Logger for your BMW.

Supported Platforms: BMW E-series, F-series, and G-series with OBDII port access. Includes MSV70, MSD80/81/85, MEVD17, MG1/MD1, and others.

🧰 What You’ll Need

  • VehiCAL Logger software (Download here)
  • ENET cable or OpenPort (for F- and G-series BMWs) or K+DCAN cable (for older E-series)
  • Windows laptop (Windows 10 or 11, with .NET installed)
  • Stable laptop power or charger
  • TRM Tuning ECU calibration (if flashing/logging for tune refinement)

⚙️ Step 1: Install VehiCAL Logger

  1. Download the latest version of VehiCAL Logger.
  2. Run the installer and follow on-screen prompts.
  3. Connect your cable to the laptop — Windows will automatically install the drivers (verify in Device Manager under “Ports” or “Network Adapters”).

🔌 Step 2: Connect to the Vehicle

  1. Turn the car ignition to ON (do not start the engine yet).
  2. Plug in your ENET, OpenPort, or K+DCAN cable into the OBD port under the dashboard.
  3. Launch VehiCAL Logger.
  4. Select the correct interface (ENET for F/G series or K-line for E series) in the connection settings.
  5. Click “Connect” — the software should detect your ECU type (e.g., MSD85, MSV70, MEVD17, MG1, etc.).

Troubleshooting Tip: If the software doesn’t connect, check voltage (>12V), ignition status, and cable drivers. ENET users must disable Wi-Fi to ensure stable communication.

📋 Step 3: Choose Logging Parameters

  • Open the Parameter List tab.
  • Select metrics relevant to TRM tuning feedback, typically:
    • Engine RPM
    • Throttle Position (%)
    • Load / Torque Request
    • Boost (psi or bar)
    • Lambda / AFR
    • Ignition Advance
    • Knock Retard (if available)
    • Fuel Pressure
    • Timing Corrections (Bank 1/2)
  • For F- and G-series, you can also log transmission parameters: gear, shift timing, and torque targeting.

🚗 Step 4: Start Logging

  1. Click “Start Logging”.
  2. Perform a few controlled WOT (wide open throttle) runs from ~2000 RPM to redline in 3rd gear, or as directed by TRM support.
  3. After completing the run, click “Stop Logging”.
  4. The log will be saved automatically as a .csv or .log file in the VehiCAL folder (e.g., Documents\VehiCAL\Logs).

File Tip: Rename your log to include details like F10_N63_TRM_Log1.csv for easy identification before emailing to TRM.

📨 Step 5: Send Logs to TRM Tuning

Email your log file(s) to your TRM tuner with the following details:

  • Car model and ECU type (e.g., F10 550i / MSD85)
  • Fuel octane rating
  • Transmission type (auto/manual)
  • Any hardware changes (intake, injectors, turbo, etc.)

Send your logs to: info@trmtuning.com

✅ Step 6: Review and Tune Adjustment

TRM will analyze your VehiCAL logs and provide an updated calibration file if needed. Logging allows fine-tuning AFRs, boost targets, and ignition maps tailored specifically to your setup, ensuring peak performance and safe operation.

💡 Additional Notes

  • Always log with the engine at full operating temperature.
  • Ensure consistent environmental conditions when comparing logs.
  • Keep Windows laptop plugged in and disable screen savers during sessions.
  • For advanced users, VehiCAL also supports CAN frames for transmission and chassis data logging.

Using VehiCAL Logger with TRM Tuning gives you precise insights into your BMW’s performance and ensures your tune is perfectly dialed in for reliability and power.

Tags: TRM Tuning, VehiCAL Logger, BMW ECU Logging, Remote Tuning, BMW Data Log, ENET, K+DCAN, N63, B58, MEVD17, MG1, BMW Tuning Support