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Complete Guide to the MPPS Device

To flash our files onto your Smart Roadster 452 (M160 engine / Bosch MEG 1.1 ECU) you need an MPPS programmer. This guide explains step by step where to buy it, how to install the drivers and — above all — how to verify your ECU so you do NOT brick it.

Compatible ECUs (verify the ECU ID)

0261205006 1037365163
0261205006 1037365186
0261205006 1037369463
0261205006 1037371568

Only proceed if the ECU ID you read matches one of these codes. If it does not match, stop: writing the map would brick the ECU permanently.

1. Where to buy the MPPS V18 on AliExpress

The recommended programmer is the MPPS V18 (ECU tuning interface via OBD/BDM). On AliExpress it costs roughly €25-50 depending on the seller.

Search for the exact term "MPPS V18" and choose a seller with many positive reviews and lots of sales. Avoid older cloned versions (V16/V21) that often cause driver problems.

  • Search AliExpress: "MPPS V18 ECU Chip Tuning"
  • Make sure it includes the OBD2 cable and adapter
  • Choose highly rated sellers (4.7+ stars)
  • Read reviews: it must work on recent Windows versions

2. How to update the AMT drivers on your PC

The MPPS uses a communication chip (FTDI/AMT type). After plugging in the USB cable, Windows may not recognise it immediately: you need to install/update the AMT drivers.

Open Device Manager: if you see the device with a yellow exclamation mark, right-click → Update driver. If that is not enough, download the updated AMT/FTDI drivers and install them manually, then unplug and replug the cable.

  • Plug the MPPS into the USB port
  • Open Device Manager
  • Find the device (often under "COM Ports" or with a yellow warning)
  • Right-click → Update driver → install the AMT drivers
  • Unplug and replug to confirm recognition

3. It also works with Windows 11

Yes, the MPPS V18 with updated AMT drivers works correctly on Windows 11 (as well as Windows 10).

If Windows 11 blocks the unsigned driver installation, reboot using "Disable driver signature enforcement" from the advanced startup options, then install the driver again.

4. How to do the ECU ID and verify the MEG 1.1

This is the MOST IMPORTANT step. Before writing any file you must read the ECU identifier (ECU ID) to be 100% sure it is a Bosch MEG 1.1.

Connect the MPPS to the OBD2 port, start the software, select ECU read/identification and check the ECU code. For the Smart Roadster the correct reference is a MEG 1.1 with a Bosch part number such as 1037371568.

If the code you read does NOT match a MEG 1.1, STOP: do not write anything. Writing a file meant for a MEG 1.1 onto a different ECU bricks it permanently.

  • Ignition on, engine off, battery charged
  • Read the ECU ID from the MPPS software
  • Confirm it is a Bosch MEG 1.1
  • Verify the part number (e.g. 1037371568)
  • Always save a backup of the original map (read) before writing

Warning

Correctly recognising the engine ECU is essential to avoid bricking it. Only proceed if you have verified the MEG 1.1 and backed up the original map.