FCA Secure (Firewall) Gateway Module Explained – SGM SGW
Starting in 2018, Fiat Chrysler Group (FCA Stellantis) has started equipping its vehicles, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM, with a secure gateway module, better known as the security gateway module, SGW, or SGM. According to FCA, the purpose of the SGM is to protect the car’s CAN Bus (the car’s nervous system) from being hacked over a cellular network.
This module does more than just prevent hacking; it also disables access for aftermarket diagnostic scanners to clear fault codes, perform active tests, and run teach-in procedures.
While FCA claims the SGM is designed to just prevent vehicle hacking, it seems that FCA is using technology to protect its profits by not allowing DIYers and small repair shops from being able to diagnose FCA vehicles fully.
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How does it work?
The SGM uses an encryption algorithm to isolate most diagnostic requests from aftermarket diagnostic devices, except those from original equipment (OEM) devices or devices registered with FCA that require a yearly subscription. As a result, non-OEM (aftermarket) diagnostic tools can only be used to read fault codes, identify the vehicle’s VIN, and view data streams through the OBD diagnostics port.
In the video below, we scan a 2021 Dodge Charger with the SGM installed. As you can see in the video, we can read codes from all modules and view live data, but we cannot clear the codes, even if the fault codes are in STORED, HISTORY, or NOT ACTIVE status.
You can read codes and view live data using a YOUCANIC full system scanner (or any other aftermarket scanner) to diagnose a 2018 and newer Dodge, Chrysler, or Jeep. The SGM prevents the scanner from being able to access the vehicle to clear codes and perform active tests.
Bypassing the Security Gateway Module
The good news is that there are a couple of different ways to bypass the SGM. the security gateway module can be bypassed. If you own an FCA vehicle made after 2018, hope is not lost! There are a couple of different ways to get around this pesky module.
- 12+8-pin adapter – Find the security gateway module behind the dashboard, unplug it, and connect your 12+8 cable. This will give you full access to the vehicle. Diagnose the vehicle, clear codes, carry bi-directional functions, and resets. Reinstall the security gateway module once you are done troubleshooting.
- OBDGENIE – aftermarket SGM bypass devices, such as OBDGENIE, can disable the firewall, allowing you to access your vehicle’s various control units.
- AutoAuth – The last and our least preferred method is registering the scan tool with Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep and paying the vehicle manufacturer a $50/year subscription. We don’t recommend this method because we believe that, as an owner, you should be able to diagnose your vehicle without paying the manufacturer a yearly subscription to get access to your vehicle.
Any of these bypass methods will give you full communication to diagnostics and make it possible for aftermarket diagnostics and programming tools to access the CAN bus directly.
Fiat Chrysler Group Wants You to Subscribe to Diagnose Your Car.
Fiat Chrysler Group (FCA) wants you to pay a yearly subscription plan to be able to diagnose your vehicle through AutoAuth. This subscription-based service allows auto mechanics, technicians, and DIYers to perform diagnostic repairs on vehicles with the SGM installed by providing an authentication process through FCA servers before performing any in-depth troubleshooting. In FCA’s SGM FAQ page linked below, the company fails to explain the need for a subscription service; instead, they explain how it works: Up to five users can use the same account. Each additional user added to the profile increases the total annual fee by $2. This rule applies to both shops and individuals.
To use a 12+8-pin bypass cable, you must locate the secure gateway module under the vehicle’s steering wheel or behind the dashboard or radio. Once you have found the SGW, you will need to unplug the two connectors and replace them with the connectors on the bypass cable. Then, you can connect your adapter to the other end of the bypass cable. This adapter comes free with every UCAN-II scanner purchase.
Bypass Secure Gateway Module with an OBDGENIE
Find the security gateway module in your vehicle and remove the two plugs. Connect the two plugs to the bypass device. Run the bypass module and wait for the green LED light to appear.
Once the feature is operational, remove the bypass device and reattach the security gateway module as it was initially installed from the factory. Let’s look at the step-by-step instructions on disabling Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Fiat secure gateway modules with OBDGENIE.
- Locate the gateway module SGW in your vehicle and remove the two plugs on the bottom of the module.
- Temporarily plug these two plugs into the security Gateway module bypass.
- Put the vehicle in the “run” position.
- Plug the other adapter into the OBD2 port.
- Wait for the green light or horn beep, which indicates that the programming is complete.
- Disconnect the security gateway module, and bypass and unplug the two cables.
- Plug the two cables back into the gateway module in different locations in FCA vehicles.
- You are now finished.
Vehicles with SGW Module
FCA began installing the SGW on some 2017 vehicles that came into the market as the 2018 model year. This technology has become more widespread over the years, with nearly all FCA vehicles produced in 2020 reported to have the SGW installed.
- 2018+ Alfa Romeo Giulia
- 2018+ Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- 2018+ Chrysler 300
- 2018+ Chrysler Pacifica
- 2018+ Dodge Charger
- 2018+ Dodge Challenger
- 2018+ Dodge Durango
- 2018+ Dodge Journey
- 2018+ Fiat 500L
- 2018+ Fiat 500X
- 2018+ Jeep Cherokee
- 2018+ Jeep Compass
- 2018+ Jeep Grand Cherokee WK
- 2019+ Jeep Grand Commander
- 2018+ Jeep Renegade
- 2018+ Jeep Wrangler JL
- 2020+ Jeep Gladiator
- 2018+ Ram 1500 & Heavy Duty 2500/3500
- 2018+ Ram Promaster City
- 2020+ Ram Promaster (Full-Size)
Vehicles that were sold for the non-US market may not be impacted.
Do other vehicles have Security Gateway Modules?
We are seeing an increasing OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) installing security gateway modules (SGM, SGW) on their cars.
- FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) requires most 2018 and later models to set up an account with AutoAuth.
- Nissan and Infiniti have installed the SGW system in the 2020 Sentra, but it is not currently required.
- Mercedes Benz has installed the SGW system in the 2021 E Class and S Class models, but it is only required for SCN coding.
- Starting in 2022, new Renault models will require an account with Renault.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I access all modules or clear fault codes on my 2018 and newer Dodge, Chrysler, or other FCA vehicle?
The Secure Gateway Module (SGW) is a component that creates a firewall to protect against access and manipulation of a vehicle’s networks and vital systems. FCA claims that the SGW was designed to prevent non-registered and non-authenticated users from performing intrusive diagnostics, such as bi-directional controls, rather than to restrict access to diagnostic data. In addition to blocking bi-directional capabilities, such as calibrations, relearns, and actuations, the SGW also prevents even basic actions like clearing codes.
So how does the secure gateway module (SGW) work?
The vehicle network is divided into two sectors: the public sector and a private sector. The public sector includes the telematics unit and the DLC (data link connector), while the private sector includes all other network parts and control units. Access to the private sector of the network is restricted and requires authentication, which is currently only available to Chrysler-licensed devices. This separation helps to protect the privacy and security of the vehicle’s electronic systems.
Where is the security gateway module located on Dodge, Chrysler, and FCA vehicles?
In most FCA vehicles, the security gateway module is located right under the dashboard board; generally, on the driver’s side but in some modes, it may be under the right side of the dashboard or the central part of the dashboard.
What is the SGW module on Chrysler and Dodge vehicles?
The SGW module is a Cyber Security hardware device to stop unwanted access and threats to the Controller Area Networks (CAN’s) for the vehicles. It is also a way to protect profits for dealerships.
Does the Security Gateway Module (SGW) placed on FCA vehicles prevent independent repair facilities from servicing FCA vehicles?
Yes, it does, regardless of FCA’s answer that it does not.
Does the aftermarket scan tool have the same functionality on SGW-equipped vehicles as on non-SGW-equipped vehicles once SGW is bypassed?
Yes. Once the SGW is unlocked through the authentication process or bypassing, the aftermarket scan tool has the same capabilities as on non-SGW-equipped FCA vehicles.
