(u)DFP20 Common Troubleshooting

Edited

This guide provides quick, actionable solutions for the most frequent technical hurdles encountered with the VRS® DirectForce® Pro 20 (uDFP20).


1. No Force Feedback (Motor State 3 Error)

If your wheel has no force feedback (FFB) and the VRS Config Tool shows Motor State 3 (Faulted) or Alignment Error , the motor cable is likely installed incorrectly.

  • The Cause: This error typically occurs when the 3-pin motor cable connecting the WheelBase to the Controller is plugged in upside down.

  • The Fix: Both the cable end and the port on the controller box are trapezoidal in shape.

  • Alignment: You must align the longer sides and the shorter sides of the connectors to match before inserting.

  • [WARNING]: The cable should insert easily with minimal force. If you feel resistance, stop and double-check the orientation, as forcing it can cause damage.

2. Locating Your (u)DFP20 Nm Unlock Code

An unlock code is required to access the full torque potential of your uDFP or DFP20 base.

  • Where to Look: Find the code in the invoice email received after completing your order.

  • Invoice Entry: Look for a line item titled "20 Nm unlock code".

  • Purchased via Reseller: If you purchased from a reseller, they manage your code. You must contact your reseller directly to obtain your activation key before reaching out to VRS support.

  • Secondary Owners: Warranty and codes are transferable, provided you have the original sales receipt or proof of purchase (email) from the original buyer.

3. Installing the Motor Shaft Key

If the steel key is difficult to seat into the motor shaft slot during setup, use these tips to ensure a secure fit:

  • The Freezer Trick: Place the steel key in the freezer for one hour. This makes it smaller for an easier fit into the shaft slot.

  • Installation: Align the frozen key in the slot and use a C-Clamp to press it fully into the bottom of the slot.

  • [TIP]: If the key still will not seat, you can use sandpaper on a flat surface to gently remove a small amount of material from both sides of the key where it touches the sides of the slot.

4. Resolving a Stalled Firmware Update

If a firmware update freezes or fails to finish, follow these steps to reset the process:

  1. Close the VRS Config Tool application.

  2. Power off the wheel base and wait 10–30 seconds.

  3. Ensure the base is plugged directly into a PC USB port—remove any USB hubs or extenders.

  4. Verify that all simulators and games are closed so they do not attempt to take control of the base during the update.

  5. Power the base back on, restart the Config Tool, and attempt the update again.

  6. In rare cases a manual update is required, please reach out to us if the steps above do not yield a result.


Still need help?

Community Support: Join our team and other users on the VRS Discord.

Technical Support: If you cannot resolve the issue, please Submit a Support Ticket.

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