How to enable Race mode on non-QV Giulia 2017-2024

Description:

This will hopefully be an all-encompassing topic on the different ways to enable race mode on the Base / Ti / Veloce / Lusso (i.e., 2.0T / 2.2TD) versions of the 2017-202x Giulia in NAFTA and EMEA Markets. These procedures may or may not work in other regions

NOTE: 2020+ with the monostable DNA selector (the one that always reverts to N) does not require a replacement DNA+R selector. All that is needed is the SGW bypass, MES, blue and grey cables, and a USB OBD adapter. Read Step 1.

2016-2019 10-pin DNA-R:
image

2020+ 4-pin DNA-R:
image

Installation

Prerequisites:

  1. You will need a Multiecuscan (MES) license
  2. Install on a Windows 10/11 laptop. (Refer to the MES site for configuration assistance.)
  3. Purchase an ODB2 USB adapter.
    • The MES site has recommendations.
    • I recommend the OBDLink SX usb OBD adapter, it works great.
  4. Purchase / borrow some of the Fiat / Alfa / Lancia OBD2 adapter cables. Usually in a 5 cable set that includes many colors.
    • As stated on the MES site, you will need the blue and gray cables (#5 and #6 respectively) in order to access the necessary vehicle modules through the OBD2 port. (Note: All module access is through the OBD2 port)
    • I purchased this set on eBay, shipping took a little bit as I am in the States.
  5. For 2018 + Giulia’s (U.S. date of manufacture after February 1st 2018, EU after early April 2018) it is likely that you have a device in your car called a Security Gateway Module (SGW / SGM) that prevents unauthorized writing to the vehicles many modules. You need a bypass device.
    • **WARNING!!! The SGW Bypass from EuroCompulsion will NEED to be modified in order to work with this Race mode modification. My suggestion is to purchase from Alfissimo International or Squadra Tuning.
    • The one I used is from EuroCompulsion, but as stated I had to open it up to modify so it could communicate with all (2?) CAN networks via the OBD port.

EC SGW bypass 4 - modified

  1. To determine whether or not you have a SGW module (introduced in early 2018) in your vehicle, use MES and your OBD2 USB adapter to toggle a parameter, like the horn. If you can toggle the horn, you do not have a SGW module in your car, you may proceed to one of the next Options (1 or 2).
  2. If you received an error trying to toggle a parameter:
    • The SGW module prevents writing to the ECM and other vehicle modules without authentication and authorization. You MUST install a bypass to get around it or just stop now, continuing is useless.
  3. Installation of the SGW bypass is described in the SGW Bypass Install Wiki topic.

Install Step 1/2 (Selector):

NOTE: If you have the monostable DNA selector (the one that always returns to the N position, 2020+?) you do NOT need to choose one of the options below, you can skip to the Configure the ECM to allow the RDNA selector to toggle Race mode section below.

This process can be completed by choosing one of two options, choose your own adventure:

Install Step 1/2 - Option 1 (New DNAR Selector):

(I have a bit of money and no time to waste, or I have a bit of money and no soldering skills)

  1. Purchase and install the RDNA selector for a Quadrifoglio. Where? Dealership or other. Figure it out, you’re smart. Make sure to buy the proper year, as later models connect to the CAN bus and are not compatible with the older style.
  2. Remove the center console pieces.
    • Remove the shifter trim piece by prying up on the front of it with your fingers, it pulls straight up with a little bit of force.
    • Next start at the front by the cup holders for the larger front center console piece. Pull back while lifting up and it should pop.
    • The piece that the center storage is surrounded by is the same, just pull in and up on the sides of it. You’ll get it. Just don’t twist or force (bend) any of them, only pull and work straight and upwards.
    • Once the trim is loose, it’s pretty simple, it only requires some torx bits to remove and replace the switch. Don’t drop a screw, ask me why.
  3. Re-install the trim pieces in reverse order. Remember that the two main center console pieces fit together prior to reconnecting them to the center console base.

Install Step 1/2 - Option 2 (Update DNAR Selector):

(Modify your existing DNA selector. You need to be fairly adept at soldering and working with very small surface mount devices.)

@Gaucho created a wonderful video showing the disassembly / reassembly of the DNA selector.

  1. Procure the resistor and switch defined below. I purchased 10 of each, destroying 4 of the switches in the process of discovering how this all works out though.

  2. Disassemble the DNA selector…

    • This is a tough one to describe as I did not take photos while I disassembling… sorry.

    • While pinching the plastic piece with the needle-nose pliers, pull up (Orange arrow) while also pushing out on the tabs (yellow arrows).

    • Next, you will see a white plastic piece in there (pictured below, sorry no action shots). On the top and bottom of it, the black plastic is keeping the white plastic from coming out of the bottom (in reference to the above photo). Use a small flat head (standard) screwdriver to pry out the black tabs so the white plastic can come out the bottom along with the rest of the selector. You will need to pull pretty good to overcome the 4 extra retention tabs around the circumference of the dial (see photo).

      IMG_20190809_194956

  3. If you’ve gotten this far, the rest is pretty easy. BE CAREFUL to not break any tabs.

  4. Remove the switch pin (small arrow below) on the switch prior to installing it. The arrow is pointing to the pin that needs removal. Bend the metal contact off of the micro-switch using tweezers, make sure any left over nub will not make contact with the circuit board pad. Ideally, this switch should be a DPST-NO (Double Pole - Single Throw - Normally Open) It will work with this modification though.

  5. Install the resistor first in the spot defined in this photo (large arrow).

  6. Install the switch on the circuit board. The guide pins will fit into the holes in the board to assist with alignment. Tweezers help with holding it down. It’s a delicate switch, so don’t overheat it.

  7. Re-assemble your new RDNA selector and install back into the center console.

*NOTE: You may have warning lights when you turn on the car. To resolve the lights, turn the steering wheel from lock to lock and back to center. Turn off the car for >30 seconds, and then turn back on. The errors/lights should disappear. If not, repeat this process

Parts for Install Step 1/2 - Option 2/2:

Micro-switch:

  • Digi-Key part number: CKN10548CT-ND
  • Manufacturer part number: HDP001R
Manufacturer C&K
Series HDP
Circuit SPST-NO
Switch Function Off-Mom
Current Rating (Amps) 1mA (DC)
Voltage Rating - DC 5V
Actuator Type Angled Toggle (Detector)
Mounting Type Surface Mount, Right Angle
Termination Style Gull Wing
Features Board Guide
Pretravel 0.006" (0.15mm)
Operating Temperature -20°C ~ 70°C
Operating Position 0.117" (2.96mm)

Resistor:

  • Digi-Key part number: A110463CT-ND
  • Manufacturer part number: 4-2176091-0
Manufacturer TE Connectivity Passive Product
Series RP73P, Holsworthy
Packaging Cut Tape (CT)
Part Status Active
Resistance 147 Ohms
Tolerance ±0.1%
Power (Watts) 0.25W, 1/4W
Composition Thin Film
Temperature Coefficient ±25ppm/°C
Operating Temperature -55°C ~ 155°C
Package / Case 0805 (2012 Metric)
Supplier Device Package 0805
Size / Dimension 0.079" L x 0.049" W (2.00mm x 1.25mm)
Height - Seated (Max) 0.026" (0.65mm)
Number of Terminations 2

Install Step 2/2 (MES):

Configure the ECM to allow the RDNA selector to toggle Race mode

Open MES and select the following:

  1. Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0 Turbo 16V Multiair → Body → CAN Setup / PROXI ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE (952)
  2. Click Connect
  3. If older than MES version 4.5:
    • To enter PROXI configuration, go to the Adjustment tab, then hit Ctrl+Alt+C (Custom PROXI)
    • Find byte 88. It should be “AC” (OEM value for NA 2018 2.0T Ti Sport Q4)
    • Replace AC with CC or EC in byte 88 (see info below for which mode to choose)
    • Hit the Execute or OK button (I don’t remember what it is)
  4. If MES 4.5 or higher:
    • Click the Adjustments tab, select Dynamic Control Selector, click Execute in the lower right
    • Choose either of the other two modes besides Type 1 (OEM setting AC)
    • Type 3/DNA/Sport is EC, and Type 2/DNA is CC (see below for description)
    • Choose one and click OK
  5. Select PROXI ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE and hit Execute
  6. Follow the prompts, switch cables when prompted
  7. Once the PROXI alignment procedure is complete you will need to run a few calibrations to remove the numerous warning lights you more than likely have
  8. Disconnect from the Body module (BCM)
  9. Connect to the ABS module (ABS / Continental ABS MK C1)
    • Requires 6/gray cable
  10. On the Parameters tab, view the Steering Angle parameter and move the steering wheel until it is very close to reading 0.0°
  11. Select the Adjustments tab and perform the following three procedures:
    • Reset steering angle
    • Lateral and longitudinal acceleration sensor calibration
    • Pressure sensor calibration
  12. Once these are complete, disconnect from the ABS module
  13. Unplug the OBD2 adapter
  14. Turn off the vehicle and wait 30 seconds until the dash lights all turn off
  15. Start vehicle
  16. Turn steering wheel full lock to left and right and back to center
  17. Turn off vehicle again for at least 30 seconds
  18. Turn on vehicle and all warning lights should be gone
    • If not, repeat steps 14-18 until clear

WARNING: If you are unable to successfully complete a PROXI alignment, this is potentially due to an outdated Chassis Domain Control Module (CDCM). Choosing a different Race mode type could resolve this. Upgrading the CDCM to a version > 501 should resolve that in most cases.

Race/Non-Race Mode Types:

Byte 88=AC (Stock) (AC (hex) = 10101100 (binary))

  • ASC/TCS enabled in all modes
  • A = A in ECM/BCM
  • N = N in ECM/BCM
  • D = D in ECM/BCM
  • R = NA

Byte 88=CC (Type 2/DNA) (CC (hex) = 11001100 (binary))

  • ASC/TCS enabled in normal DNA modes
  • A = N in ECM
  • A = A in BCM
  • N = N in ECM
  • N = N in BCM
  • D = N in ECM
  • D = D in BCM
  • Race Mode =
    • Race mode is indicated on Screen
    • Larger speed indication in center console display
    • Non-functional shift indicator in center display
    • N in ECM
    • D in BCM
    • ? in TCM
    • Disables FCW
    • Lessens the ASC/TCS nannies

Byte 88=EC (Type 3/DNA/Sport) (EC (hex) = 11101100 (binary))
NOTE: I believe this is the mode to use if you receive an error during the PROXI alignment procedure due to an outdated CDCM.

  • ASC/TCS enabled in normal DNA modes
  • A = N in ECM
  • A = A in BCM
  • N = N in ECM
  • N = N in BCM
  • D = N in ECM
  • D = D in BCM
  • ASC/TSC off mode:
    • Race mode is not indicated, only yellow FCW and ASC/TCS dash indicators
    • N in ECM
    • D in BCM
    • ? in TCM
    • Disables FCW
    • Lessens the ASC/TCS nannies

CURRENT QUESTIONS / DEBATES:

  1. In any mode besides the default Type 1 (byte 88=AC) does Dynamic or “Race” mode ever use the Dynamic ECM map? By altering byte 88 some think that the Dynamic map is never used.
  2. Is N really the only map that is available regardless of selected DNA mode in the ECM when Race mode modification is in place (when byte 88 is not AC)?

KNOWN ISSUES / RESOLUTIONS:

  • Error: WRITING PROXI DATA Drive Train Control Node (CDCM)… FAILED! - Request out of range error
  • Error: Drive Train Control Module (CDCM) EOL Failed
  • Could be a simple case of older than required firmware in the CDCM module.
    • Yanislav Karagyozov (MES author) stated that "This happens on some Giulia/Stelvio CDCM modules when you try to enable race mode because the CDCM does not support sport mode.
  • Resolution: Replace or upgrade the CDCM module to a version equal to or greater than 501. Replacing/upgrading the module with a newer version may introduce version incompatibilities with the other modules involved, so be careful.
  • Issue: Enabling Race mode will default the throttle map to N no matter what DNAR mode you select. N is a very linear map.

Interesting. Did you a reverse engineer of the pcb schematic too? Can you share it?

I didn’t do anything crazy, just figured out what was missing for the Race circuit compared to the other DNA circuits. It’s a messy job, but it saved me from having to purchase the DNAR dial.

I opened mine. The modding seems to be electrically possible, but mechanically my dna has only 3 stable positions, therefore the fourth position seems to require a modification of the plastic shown in this picture.
How did you managed this problem?

Yes, there’s a piece of plastic that needs to be cut off to allow the dial to be turned farther in order to engage that extra switch. My pics and documentation is lacking for that part.

edit: I rebuilt the wiring diagram

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I made a video about how to modify dna selector:

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May be you could add something about the fact that you will loose pedal maps by enabling race mode. Is it correct?
I read that a pedal booster will solve this problem.
I didn’t understood if this is a relevant problem

Turn it to R and hold.

hello friends i have alfa romeo giulia voloco 280 hp Q2 2021
I need Installing the race mode button I will request the button through the Internet, what is the appropriate number for my car and does it need programming
I work in Alfa Romeo agency in Palestine and on the agency’s own device there is no option to modify the proxy Please help me All the love to you my friends :heart:

The 2021 models do not need an upgraded DNA selector. You just need to change the software settings.

Is it possible through the WiTech program
? Screenshot_20250120_101412_Chrome|531x1080

I do not know WiTech, so I am not sure you can do it.