How to Virginize BMW KAFAS4 Module

How to Virginize BMW KAFAS4 Module Using ESYS & Tool32

When working on BMW advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), the KAFAS4 module plays a key role. This high-precision camera system handles functions like lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. But when replacing or retrofitting the KAFAS4 module, a virginization (factory reset) is often required to allow reprogramming and reinitialization to a new vehicle.

What Is the KAFAS4 Module?
KAFAS (Kamera-gestützte Fahrerassistenzsysteme) is the central vision-based driver assistance system in many BMW models from G-series onwards. KAFAS4 integrates high-resolution front cameras and connects to other safety modules like DSC, ICM, and radar units.

Reasons you may need to reset (virginize) KAFAS4:

• You’re installing a used KAFAS4 module from another car
• You’re retrofitting a front camera system
• There’s a mismatch with VIN or immobilizer/ISN
• You’re repairing a corrupted or failed KAFAS4 unit

⚠️ Why Virginization Is Necessary
BMW control units are locked to the original vehicle via VIN and ISN (Individual Serial Number). A used KAFAS4 won’t communicate with your car unless it’s first cleared of previous data—hence the need to virginize it.
Attempting to program without virginizing can trigger fault codes or prevent initialization entirely.

🔧 Tools You’ll Need
Before diving into the procedure, make sure you have:

• ✅ ESYS (with the correct version and PSdZData)
• ✅ Tool32 (part of BMW Standard Tools)
• ✅ ENET Cable (for G-series BMWs)
• ✅ A stable 13.8V power supply for your vehicle
• ✅ Professional knowledge of BMW diagnostics

🛠 Step-by-Step: Virginizing KAFAS4 with ESYS & Tool32
Step 1: Connect to the Vehicle
Connect your PC to the car using the ENET cable. Open ESYS and load the appropriate PSdZData for your BMW model.
Step 2: Read Vehicle Order & KAFAS ECU

• In ESYS, click Read FA (Vehicle Order)
• Under the ECU Tree, identify the KAFAS4 module (often listed under KAFAS4 or KAFAS).
• Right-click and Read ECU Data to make sure communication is stable.

Step 3: Launch Tool32

• From within your BMW tools folder, open Tool32.exe
• Load the KAFAS4.prg file (located in your EDIABAS folder)
• The interface will display available jobs (commands) for that ECU

Step 4: Run Virginization Command
In the job list, look for one of the following (exact job may vary):

steuern_virgin_kafas
steuergeraet_reset_virgin
reset_immobilizer

• Double-click the job (no parameters needed)
• Wait for confirmation message (OKAY or SUCCESS)
• DO NOT turn off the ignition or disconnect during execution

Step 5: Verify ResetOnce complete:

• The KAFAS4 will be clear of VIN, ISN, and personalization data
• Re-read the module in ESYS to confirm it is in a virgin state (uncoded)

Now, you’re ready to code and assign the module to your target vehicle!

✅ Professional Tips for Success

• Always back up original FA and SVT files before starting
• Use a high-quality ENET cable to avoid dropouts
• Never run virginization jobs without stable voltage support
• If unsure, consult ISTA-D for module-specific handling

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