Hey guys I'm in the process of removing my Clubman's ecu to be sent off for a bench. I've got access to the ecu, but can't pull it out, it seems to be locked into place but I can't figure out by what. Are there tabs or bolts holding in somewhere else or am I just not using enough force?

From related tutorials I've seen, I should be able to just pull it out at this point but I can't?
? I included a photo

 

Thats for the F56, F54 looks different but should be generally the same.

 

Just figured it out by looking at some G series BMW removals. Post LCI (2020+) the process is sort of different. Unlike this video, you need to remove the air intake and battery. The ECU housing wall on the battery side has two plastic tabs that hold the ECU in place. You have to pull those back with one hand while pulling up on the ecu to release it. Included a photo, hope this helps others too. My ECU was wedged in so I also gently used a flathead screwdriver to pop it out of place from the bottom.

 

I sure there will be some interest in your outcome from the tune. Please report back how it went and who you used to tune it. Thanks, Steve

 

If you are doing the Dinan tune, you should read this thread, post $57.

 

Alright it's done! I sent my ECU off to ARM Motorsports to be unlocked, pricing was great at $150 and got my ecu back the same week (with two day shipping). I really wanted to go with a phone based tune platform so I can reflash/mess with settings on demand, also I'm cali so things are...complicated. I chose MG Flasher since their stage one tune is more powerful than bm3 and the software is $100 cheaper in total. MG Flasher's team promised 290hp/295lb torque on 94oct (running e30) annnd yup that definitely feels about right!! Man this thing really scoots now, I'm guessing 0-60 in the low 5 second range?? It's a riot, I'm getting pushed back in my seat a decent bit. So many new sounds to enjoy too, added a K&N air filter which increased intake noise (and maybe hp??), louder turbo spool/flutter due to boost pressure/filter and burbles from the tune

Next steps are probably nm engineering exhaust and better tires.

*edit* using the paddle shifters makes a huge difference, even more amazed by the acceleration now. There's a bit more turbo lag, but when it hits, it REALLY hits. definitely need to tune back the burbles though, it's a bit too consistent once the car is warmed up.