Universal programmer KESS3 is an original next-generation device for chip tuning from Alientech, allowing reading and writing of engine and transmission control units (ECU and TCM) for cars, motorcycles, trucks, agricultural machinery, and boats.
The new device combines the functionality of the outdated devices from the previous generation, KESS V2 and K-TAG.
The KESS V3 programmer can work with engine control units or transmission control modules through the OBDII diagnostic connector, as well as in Boot/Bench modes. To work in one of these modes, you need to purchase the corresponding license. Regardless of your knowledge and experience, you can independently configure the programmer to work with the desired equipment and mode.
The equipment works with the new Alientech Suite software, which has been completely redesigned with an intuitive interface. It also provides improved access to the list of vehicles, interactive search for the desired ECU with the ability to create a list of favorite modules and view connection history.
Main features of KESS3:
- All modes of operation are combined in one device: OBD, Bench, Boot
- Automatic recognition of communication protocols when connected via OBD2 connector: Ethernet, FlexRay, CAN bus, K-line, L-line, J1850, J1708
- Latest generation processor
- Built-in GPS, accelerometer, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
- Updated USB Full Speed chip that increased performance and data exchange speed by?10 times
- Updated Alientech Suite software
To work with the KESS3 programmer, you need to purchase at least one license of your choice. The basic version of the device will not work and is not sold separately!!!
The purchased licenses include a free?1-year subscription for protocol updates, software updates, and technical support. To continue using the device, you need to renew the subscription annually.
Licenses for KESS3 (choose one):
- Car - LCV OBD - for working with cars and light commercial vehicles through the OBD2 connector
- Car - LCV Bench-Boot - for working with cars and light commercial vehicles in Boot and Bench modes
- Bike - ATV & UTV OBD - for working with motorcycles, ATVs, and utility vehicles through the OBD2 connector
- Bike - ATV & UTV Bench-Boot - for working with motorcycles, ATVs, and utility vehicles in Boot and Bench modes
- Agriculture - Truck & Buses OBD - for working with trucks, buses, special and agricultural machinery through the OBD2 connector
- Agriculture - Truck & Buses Bench-Boot - for working with trucks, buses, special and agricultural machinery in Boot and Bench modes
- Marine & PWC OBD - for working with boats, yachts, and boat engines through the OBD2 connector
- Marine & PWC Bench-Boot - for working with boats, yachts, and boat engines in Boot and Bench modes
You can view the list of supported vehicles here.
Package includes:
- KESS3 programmer
- USB cable
- OBDII cable
- 1400SWALIM
- 144300TALI cable
- 144300KBNC cable
- 144300KTER cable
- 144300T104 Rainbow IDC?26-10 cable
- 144300T105 Rainbow IDC?26-16 cable
- 144300T106 Rainbow IDC?26-26 cable
Important:
This function is available only on certain BMW engines and is NOT applicable to other vehicle brands.
The information below applies only to stock engines with factory ECU software and a standard exhaust system.
What This Parameter Actually Represents
This is NOT a direct measurement of fuel octane and is NOT a direct octane reading calculated by the ECU.
The value is an adaptation factor ranging from 0 to 1, where:
- 0 = no correction
- 1 = maximum correction
According to BMW’s internal definition:
Faktor adaptierte Kraftstoffqualität (0 = ROZ98 / 1.0 = ROZ91)
- 0 corresponds to 98 ROZ
- 1.0 corresponds to 91 ROZ
ROZ is the German equivalent of RON (Research Octane Number).
The device converts this multiplier into a more intuitive octane value for user convenience.
⚠️ The device does not measure anything itself.
It only displays the data provided by the engine control unit (ECU).
How the ECU Evaluates Fuel Quality
Each ECU has different calibration sensitivity:
- Sensitivity to the adaptation factor
- Sensitivity of the knock control system
Fuel quality is evaluated subjectively by the ECU, primarily based on:
- Knock ignition timing corrections
- Overall engine noise levels
BMW G-Series & LCI F-Series (B-Engines)
B38 / N63 / S63 / N74
These engines are highly sensitive to octane adaptation.
- During warm-up and cruising, the displayed octane may frequently drop to 95 or lower.
- This does NOT automatically indicate poor fuel quality.
- Under load, the value should increase.
⚠️ If the value continues to decrease under load, this may indicate a problem.
B46 / B48 / B58
These engines have low sensitivity.
- During cruising, octane will typically display maximum values even with mediocre fuel.
- Under load, the value will decrease if fuel quality is truly poor.
S58
Octane correction is virtually inactive.
- It will typically always show 98.
- If it drops below 98, fuel quality is genuinely very poor.
BMW F-Series (Pre-LCI) with N/S Engines
Most pre-LCI F-series ECUs do not calculate octane adaptation.
Do not expect this parameter to function.
S55
- Octane parameter not used by the system
- Display not supported
- However, display of the last 5 refueling quality events is supported
S63
- Octane parameter not used
- Display not supported
- Refueling quality display not supported
BMW E-Series
Octane parameter not available. Display not supported.
Important Notes About Tuned Vehicles
With modified hardware or custom tuning, behavior may vary significantly. Always consult your tuner regarding expected operation.
Key principles:
- If octane drops under load, it means fuel quality is worse than expected under those conditions.
- This does NOT automatically mean the fuel itself is bad.
Examples:
- If a tuner increases ignition timing and boost pressure, even good fuel may cause knock corrections, and the ECU may interpret it as poor fuel.
- Thin-walled or poorly mounted exhaust systems may create parasitic noise, which the ECU may interpret as engine knock, causing negative correction.
- Conversely, if knock sensitivity is reduced or octane correction is disabled in tuning, readings may appear ideal while actual engine safety is compromised.
