What to do when the MicroPod update freezes or hangs during configuration
Step-by-step guide to recovering and reconfiguring a frozen MicroPod (MDP/MDP+/WSP) during a WiTech update, including disconnecting the device, reopening the VCI Setup Utility, and completing the reconfiguration process.
If your MicroPod (MDP, MDP+, or Wireless Smart Pod / WSP) is in the middle of a WiTech update and freezes or stops responding, the device will need to be reconfigured using the VCI Setup Utility. This is a known recovery process for Stellantis (Chrysler) diagnostic tools. The MicroPod cannot resume the update from where it stopped, so the recovery process requires shutting down the PC, disconnecting the pod, and walking through the VCI Setup Utility reconfiguration from the beginning.
How to recover a frozen MicroPod (MDP/MDP+/WSP) during a WiTech update
Follow these steps in order to recover a MicroPod that has frozen or hung during a WiTech update:
1. Turn off your PC.
2. Disconnect the MicroPod from both the PC and the vehicle. The pod must be disconnected to power down.
3. Turn the PC back on.
4. Plug the MicroPod back into the PC using the right angle USB cable only.
5. Open Device Manager on your PC to confirm the MicroPod is recognized.
6. Open the VCI Setup Utility and select "Continue."
WARNING: Only select "Continue" if you intend to reconfigure the MicroPod. Reconfiguring will erase all factory settings and rebuild the pod's configuration from scratch.
7. Select "Continue" again — this allows the VCI Utility Manager to connect to the MicroPod.
8. Once the connection is established, select "Continue" once more to start the reconfiguration process. This step takes approximately 5 minutes.
9. Once reconfiguration is complete, you can use the underlined link in the VCI Setup Utility to open and log in to WiTech 2.
10. Log in to WiTech 2 and run the update again. The update will take 5 to 10 minutes to finish.
11. After the update completes, the MicroPod is ready to be connected to the vehicle.
Why the MicroPod freezes during a WiTech update
A MicroPod freezing or hanging during a WiTech update is typically caused by interrupted communication between the MicroPod and the PC, a USB connection issue, or a software conflict during the update process. The device cannot resume the update partway through, which is why the VCI Setup Utility reconfiguration is required to recover the pod.
Important notes when reconfiguring a MicroPod
- Always use the right angle USB cable when reconnecting the MicroPod to the PC. Using a different cable or USB hub can cause the reconfiguration to fail.
- The reconfiguration process erases the MicroPod's existing factory settings, so do not interrupt it once started.
- The MicroPod must remain connected to the PC throughout the reconfiguration and update process. Do not unplug it until the update completes.
- If the MicroPod still does not recover after running the VCI Setup Utility, contact AETools support for further assistance.
Where to get help with a frozen MicroPod or WiTech update
If you continue to experience issues with your MicroPod (MDP, MDP+, or WSP) freezing during a WiTech update, or if the VCI Setup Utility does not detect the device:
- Visit https://aetools.us
- Call AETools at (913) 856-6678