Alientech has introduced a wider KESS3 workflow for protected Bosch MDG1 “Locked” ECUs, combining a dedicated Unlock Module accessory with new BOOT unlock and follow-up BENCH protocols across a large multi-brand vehicle list.
What changed
Alientech released two linked updates on 3 September 2026:
- Upgrade 3.50: KESS3 Unlock Module support for BOOT unlock on selected protected Bosch MDG1 ECUs.
- Upgrade 3.51: new BENCH protocols for those same MDG1 locked ECUs after the unlock procedure has been completed.
Key detail for workshops: the first operation is the unlock. After that, supported ECUs can be read, written and backed up in BENCH from the connector, without opening the ECU again.
Which ECUs are covered
The releases cover selected Bosch MDG1 locked ECUs from 2021 onwards, including MD1CS003, MD1CS069, MD1CP007, MD1CS012, MG1CS042, MD1CS004 (HW80), MG1CS031, MD1CP006, MD1CS005 and MG1CS002.
Which vehicles are covered
Alientech lists broad coverage across Audi, Bentley, Citroen, Cupra, DS, Fiat, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Toyota, Vauxhall and Volkswagen applications.
That includes everything from VAG performance and SUV platforms through to Hyundai/Kia diesel applications, Ford commercial vehicles, Stellantis vans and SUVs, Land Rover models, Porsche Macan/Cayenne/Panamera applications and Toyota Proace City.
Why it matters here
Locked Bosch MDG1 ECUs have been one of the bigger workflow headaches on late-model vehicles. A controlled unlock path followed by direct BENCH read/write gives workshops a more repeatable way to support newer diesel and petrol platforms without sending every job away or treating each revision like a first-time unlock.
If you’re running one of the vehicles above and want a file matched to your exact ECU and hardware setup, get in touch via tunefiles.com.au.
Source: Alientech, KESS3 Protocol Releases – Upgrade 3.50 and Upgrade 3.51, Bosch MDG1 Locked ECU Unlock Module and BENCH protocols, 3 September 2026.
