Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Will this software clear the "Service Now" that is displayed in the instrument cluster?
Answer: Yes! This software can clear the service reminder on all supported Porsches.

Question: What is the difference between the Enthusiast kit and the Professional kit?
Answer: In Durametric version 5, the difference is the number of cars the kit allows you to work on. The Enthusiast kits are limited to use on 3 cars - managed by VIN, not model. The Professional kit has no limit to the number of cars on which it can be used. With the introduction of Durametric version 6, the Professional kits alone gain the ability to perform Coding changes on supported control units.

Question: What is Coding?
Answer: Coding is the ability to change predefined editible settings on control units that support the option. Settings typically include those that localize the car for a particular market (e.g., the language or units of measure displayed on the instrument cluster) or enable or disable car variations (e.g., with our without chronometer, LED lights, etc...).

Question: Why doesn't the Enthusiast kit support Coding?
Answer: This was a business decision based on the margin of the Enthusiast kit and the cost of support. By popular demand, the Enthusiast kits support enabling the OBC which, technically, is a Coding option.

Question: What models does Durametric support?
Answer: Durametric supports the following Porsche models: 1990 and newer 944, 968, 964 & 993 Carrera, 986 Boxster, 996 Carrera, 987 Boxster, 987 Cayman, 997 Carrera, and 2003-2007 955 Cayenne. We are always working on new models and features. 

Question: Does this software work on European Specification or ROW (Rest Of World) cars?
Answer: Yes! This software works on all models we support regardless of the country for which the car was made.

Question: Can this software recalibrate the mileage?
Answer: No. This software cannot change the mileage on any car.

Question: Can the software reset the service reminder? The car's instrument cluster says "Maintenance is due in xxx miles."
Answer: Yes! Durametric can clear the service reminder on all Porsche vehicles that support one, with the exception of the 2008+ Cayennes (support coming soon). In version 5, click on "Instrument Cluster," then the "Diagnostics" menu, then "Reset Service Reminder." 
Note: "Service Now" is different than "Maintenance due in..." The "Service Now" message is an indication that there is a fault code stored in one of the car's systems. "Maintenance Due" is the car's service reminder.

Question: Does the tool come with a warranty?
Answer: Yes! Hardware purchased from Durametric is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of six (6) months from receipt by the end-user. All defective hardware must be returned to us at the customer's expense. Durametric will ship repaired or replacement goods to the customer at our expense using a comparable method of shipment. This warranty does not cover any damage caused by neglect or misuse.

Question: Are software updates available?
Answer: Yes, and they're free! If you purchase one of our tools, you are entitled to free software updates for as long as you own the tool.

Question: What can Durametric software do for my car?
Answer: It can help you read diagnostic trouble codes with description, capture actual values, activate drive links, and reset the indicator light for nearly all Porsche systems. Check our Model/Feature Matrix for details.

Question: Will this software allow me to see the over-revs of my engine?
Answer: Yes! On the 996 and Boxster 986, the software will show you range 1 and range 2 ignitions (over-revs). On the 997, Boxster and Cayman 987, we display all 6 ranges. Also, here is a screen shot.

Question: What control modules can be accessed and reset with this software?
Answer: Please see our Model/Feature Matrix for details.

Question: Can the software help me bleed the brakes?
Answer: Yes, but only on the 964 C4. With the release of version 6, the software will support brake bleeding on more models.

Question: Can the software enable the on board computer (OBC)?
Answer: With the use of the version 6 software and a 2nd-generation Enthusiast or Professional cable, Durametric can enable the OBC.

Question: Can the software change the odometer reading of the car?
Answer: No.

Question: Can the software re-program the keys and remotes for Porsche cars?
Answer: Not at this time.

Question: Can the software readout the ECU's memory?
Answer: In some cases stored data is available for read only. Example: You can read the VIN associated with the DME, though Durametric cannot change it.

Question: Why do you use USB cables?
Answer: USB has been standard on all laptops made for the last 6+ years while serial ports - the most common alternative - are almost non-existent.

Question: What type of USB port is required?
Answer: The hardware is compatible with both USB 1.0 and USB 2.0. USB 2.0 is strongly recommended.

Question: Do you make software for VW / Audi?
Answer:No. For VW/Audi, we recommend the VCDS product by Ross Tech.

Question: Is the Durametric interface cable compatible with the Porsche System Tester (PST2), or PIWIS software?
Answer: No, our hardware is not compatible with any factory Porsche software.

Question: Can I capture 0-60 figures and other performance metrics?
Answer: No, we do not support any performance metrics using our software. Though you can log and save actual values and analyze this in an Excel spreadsheet.

Question: Can the software be installed on more than one computer?
Answer: Yes! You can install the software on as many computers as you like, and you can always download the latest version from our downloads page.

Question: Can Durametric flash my DME to enhance my car's performance?
Answer: The Durametric tool does not support flash programming, though some kits sold through authorized distributors also include the ability to flash-tune cars.

Question: How do I check the VINs on my cable?
Answer: In version 5, connect the tool to the computer, open the program, and go to View | Options. In version 6, connect the tool to the computer, open the program, and go to Tools | Tool Information.

Question: Can the tool match a new DME or Alarm unit to my car?
Answer: No. This requires programming and is not supported by Durametric.

Question: Can I install Durametric on a computer running other programs?
Answer: Yes! There is only one known incompatibility and that is with Programma's PC Retriever. The two programs should not be installed on the same computer.

Question: Can I install version 5 and 6 on the same computer?
Answer: Yes! Durametric version 5 and 6 are completely different programs and are compatible though they will not run simultaneously.

Question: If one end of the cable plugs into the computer, what does the other end of the cable plug into?
Answer: The other end of the cable plugs into the car's diagnostic port. This is the same port used by OBDII. Our cable was designed only for Porsche and should not be plugged into any other cars.

The Durametric Diagnostic software is capable of displaying and clearing engine trouble codes on most Porsche control modules. Most Porsches made since 1990 have multiple computers built into different parts of the car that are capable of self-diagnosis. In other words, the car knows what is wrong and illuminates a general indicator light on the instrument panel to notify you.

Learning about the cause of the trouble typically results in relying on a Porsche dealer to read the information and report to you the corrective options. The Durametric tool allows you to easily see and interpret any trouble codes to better understand your Porsche's repair and maintenance needs.

Below is a snapshot of the Durametric program showing the codes of a Porsche 911 engine. For each trouble code triggered on the car's computer, Durametric provides user-friendly descriptions, P-codes, factory fault codes, and even repair information when available. Here you can also see the button Erase fault memory that allows you to clear out the code that triggers the indicator light.

This feature reads values directly from the computer and displays them on the screen as fast as the computer will respond. 
The samples can be recorded in excel or csv format. See data logging
Actual values should never be used in a moving vehicle.
All actual values are approximate.

Some control units are capable of displaying information about the car that is not fault related. Sometimes this information is nothing more than the part number or firmware number, but in some cases it displays a lot of interesting information about the vehicle. To access this information click on "ECU ID / Information" tab (where available).

The 6 ranges can be broken down as:
Range 1: 7300-7500 RPM
Range 2: 7500-7700 RPM
Range 3: 7700-7900 RPM
Range 4: 7900-8400 RPM
Range 5: 8400-9500 RPM
Range 6: 9500-11000 RPM
 
The number is the number of ignitions in each of these ranges.
The factory tool does not display the hours for each of these ranges, but the information is available so we display it here. The hour indicates the last operating hour that this range occured in.

A new log is stored for each day that you use the program. This means that you can go back and look at previous logs. Logs are stored in "Program Files/Durametric Software/Durametric Diagnostic Tool/". Each log name starts with "VehicleLog" and ends with the Month, Day, and Year the file was created.

When logging actual values, you can create the output file in Excel or CSV. Each sample starts with a time reference in milliseconds. This gives a point-in-time reference from sample to sample.

Note: Sampling speed is limited to the controller being sampled. Some modules are faster then others.

For the Version 5 support matrix, click here. 
For the support matrix of the Version 6 beta-test release, click here. 

Hardware

Our hardware solution consists of an adapter cable which has one end that plugs into the USB port of a laptop or desktop computer and another end that plugs into the diagnostic port of your car. Since our hardware supports USB it is compatible with most computers.

Cables

Currently we offer one cable that is used on all 1996 and newer cars. We also offer an adapter cable for connections to cars made before 1996 that have a round diagnostic connector. We also offer a 50' extension cable as an option.

Free Updates

If you purchase an interface adapter, you are entitled to free software updates for as long as you own the hardware.
You can see all of the changes we have made to the product by looking at our version history.

Warranty

Hardware purchased from Durametric is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of six (6) months from receipt by the end-user. All defective hardware must be returned to us at the customer's expense. Durametric will ship repaired or replacement goods to the customer at our expense using a comparable method of shipment. This warranty does not cover any damage caused by neglect or misuse.

Comparision of OBD2 to Durametric Diagnostic tool for Porsche

Our product is often compared to OBD2 products, though it is much different. Our tool uses the same communications protocol that the dealership's tool does to access all of the computers in the car.
But OBD2 was developed to meet emissions compliance rules in the United States, and can only read diagnostic information pertaining to an emissions problem on Porsche cars. Our tool can read both emissions and non-emissions related information in the car's engine computer (DME) plus all other systems on the car like Airbag, ABS, etc...
Additionally OBD2 only displays "P-Codes"; our tool displays both "P-codes" and Porsche specific fault code information that matches the car's service manual.

Notice the section for "Ignitions (Range 1)." This vehicle shows "13958/917h" which means the vehicle has used the rev-limiter for 13,958 ignitions, the last time being at 917 hours. So this indicates the engine was red-lined often and the last time occurred recently since the engine only has 917 hours.
Notice the section for "Ignitions (Range 2)." This vehicle shows "1/48h" which means the vehicle exceeded the red line one time during 48 hours of operation. This is an example of a possible car a Porsche dealer will not perform warranty work on as this metric indicates abuse.
If you ever look at an online auction for Porsche instrument panel clusters, you will see many of them for sale. Most of these clusters are not broken; many of them were replaced from lease vehicles to avoid paying excess mileage charges. From the example above, you can see that this engine has 917 hours in the "Operating Hours Section." This should be compared to the odometer to see if the number makes sense. If you divide the odometer mileage by the operating hours you will have an average MPH.
Example: 12,000 Miles / 917 Operating Hours = 13 MPH
Most cars will average between 30 - 50 MPH depending on how much traffic it is driven in so the value of 13 MPH indicates there could be a discrepancy.
You can also compare and validate the VIN and color codes with the sticker inside of the hood.
Porsche cars from 2005 (997, Boxster 987, Cayman) have 6 ignition ranges that represent different RPM ranges. For more information on these cars, please see our ECU information.
Note: The Enthusiast version is limited to three vehicles, but this limitation does not prevent you from viewing abuse information on an unlimited number of cars. (Durametric version 5 software only.)

Used Porsche Buyers Guide

Before you buy a used Porsche, be sure to check that the engine has not been abused and the odometer is accurate.
Porsche regularly refuses to offer warranty repairs on engines that have been over-revved and abused. But now, you can check a used Porsche before you buy it!
Shopping for a used Porsche with Durametric makes this analysis easy. Just take your laptop and your Durametric kit with you to be certain the purchase you are making is one you will not regret.
The Durametric Diagnostic tool allows you to check if the odometer is accurate, and to review the engine’s computer to see engine over-revs, rev-limiter usage, and operating hours. You can also see if the car has any stored fault conditions. Such details might inform you of any repairs that are needed and may save you thousands of dollars.
Please note that abuse information is available on Boxster, 996, 997, and Cayman. There is no abuse information available on Cayenne, 993, and 964. The Model Feature Matrix page provides information on Durametric’s compatibility by Porsche model.
In the example below, you can see the statistics and data related to the car’s ignition ranges, VIN number and body color - all pieces of information that assure you the vehicle is as it appears.

This page contains a list of projects that are currently under development or that we plan to add to the program. If there is a feature you would like to have and do not see it on this page please let us know.

This list is in no particular order and features will be added based on our own development schedule.
This list is not a guarantee that we will add these features.

Control modules to add to the software for basic read and clear codes.

2008 Cayenne SDI 4 DME - Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
2009 997, Boxster, Cayman SDI 3 DME -Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
964/993 Alarm System - Completed

Misc
Clear fault codes on 9x6 alarm -Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
Steering angle sensor calibration on ABS 5.3/5.7 -Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
Enable On Board Computer (OBC) on Boxster/996 -Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
996 Convertible top calibration -Completed and available in Durametric 6.0
964 Idle speed adaptation

Current software version 6.6.3.5
This version can only be used with 2nd-generation Durametric cables. See our Version History for more information.

Install the Durametric software program - version 6.6.3.5. 
Now with support for Panamera, 2011+ Cayenne, 981, and 991 - including service resets!
(If upgrading, uninstall previous version first)

System Requirements
Windows® 7, Windows® 8 (32- or 64-bit versions), 
Windows® 10 (32- oder 64-bit Versionen, nicht Windows®10 RT)
1.8 GHz Pentium-class, dual-core processor or faster (ARM processor such as on Windows Surface using WinRT not supported)
1 GB Memory (RAM)
1 GB available disk space
Available USB 2.0 port (Computers supporting USB 3.0 not recommended)
Recommend an available Internet connection (for installation and updates)
Screen resolution of 800x600 or greater
Microsoft® .NET Framework 3.5 sp1 (free download). Not required on Windows 7. - .NET Framework version 4.x not supported.
Adobe® Acrobat Reader (for viewing and printing documentation)
Durametric 2nd-generation cable (?)

Copyright Notice
Durametric Software is Copyright © 2005-2006 by Durametric Software Incorporated. All rights are reserved. Decompilation, disassembly, reverse-engineering, alteration, and re-distribution in any form without the prior written consent of Durametric Software Incorporated. is prohibited. 

Disclaimer
By downloading this software, you acknowledge that this Program is provided "as is" and "with all faults, defects and errors" and that all use of the Program is at your own full risk. It has been tested, but we cannot guarantee it will work with all scenarios. We will make our best effort to fix any bugs and to enhance the program, but we specifically disclaim any liability for damage to your computer or your car, and we do not promise to have any particular enhancements available. 

Download
The software can be downloaded by anyone, but it will only work with Durametric hardware.

Support

If you already have the software installed and running please submit your support request by sending us an email to: durametric@fvd.net

Please include the following information:
1. What type of vehicle you are working on Include Year, model, and variation example: 2002 996 Twin Turbo
2. What feature in the software are you using? Where is the problem?
3. Attach the log file. The log file is stored at "C:program filesDurametric SoftwareDurametric Diagnostic Toollog.txt" By attaching the log file this will send us all of the communication between the computer and your car so we can analyze the problem.
4. Please include a contact name, phone number and email address.