Definition of Terms
Calibration Update: Some modules are designed to be flashed or reflashed with complete new software packages. This process of reflashing the module is a calibration update.
Programmable Parameters: These are options contained within the existing software. These include items such as tire size, customer preferences and anti-theft options. The current settings are required to be downloaded from an existing module, then uploaded to a new module. Customer preferences can be configured using a diagnostic tool. Programming parameters is very different from updating calibrations as no software is changed, only the options already contained in the software.
Module Programming Methods
Some modules must be programmed as part of a repair procedure. If this procedure is not followed the module will not function correctly and may set a number of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), including B2477 or P1639, which indicate that some necessary data has not been programmed into the module.
Modules that need programming should not be exchanged between vehicles. In most cases the parameter values or settings are unique to that vehicle, and if not set correctly will cause concerns or faults.
The WDS automatically attempts to retrieve the module configuration information from all modules, and from a backup location in the powertrain control module (PCM) when vehicle ID is carried out. If the module and the PCM do not contain correct the information, the diagnostic tool either requests "As Built" data or displays a list of items that you need to manually configure. The diagnostic tool programs the module based on the data you enter.
For additional WDS/diagnostic tool programming procedures, refer to PROGRAMMABLE MODULE INSTALLATION .
There are 3 different methods that are used for module programming
- programmable module installation (PMI)
- calibration update
- programmable parameters
Some modules do not support all 3 methods.
Programmable Parameters
If a module that has been modified using programmable parameters needs to be installed, the PMI procedure maintains the parameters in their altered state if the WDS is able to communicate with the old module during vehicle ID. Otherwise you may need to use programmable parameters to return them to the altered state.
Configurable Modules
The vehicle contains the following configurable modules
- anti-lock brake system (ABS) module
- generic electronic module (GEM)
- powertrain control module (PCM)
- instrument cluster
- restraint control module (RCM)
| Module | Calibration Updatable | PMI | Programmable Parameter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module | No | Yes | |
| Generic Electronic Module (GEM) | No | Yes | Perimeter anti-theft |
| Powertrain Control Module (PCM) | Yes | Yes | Fuel octane Tire/wheel size Axle ratio Transmission type |
| Instrument Cluster | No | Yes | Language ESP/IVD installed in vehicle (TCS) enabled ABS enabled Smart Restraints System (AB9) enabled |
| Restraint Control Module (RCM) | No | Yes | Side air bag |
PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS INDEX
Using the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) When the Original Module is Not Available
- Install the new module.
- Using the VCM and the latest version of the service function card, SELECT: Programmable Module Installation.
- Select the module being installed.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- SELECT: Retrieve Module Configuration - Old ECU and press trigger.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- The VCM attempts to retrieve the module data. If the module data is available, go to «STEP A»(ref-255414-S29706877682007053100000) . If the VCM displays: Call the As-Built Data Center, go to «STEP B»(ref-255414-S16728379652007053100000) .
Step A
- SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU. Press trigger.
- The VCM completes loading the retrieved data and displays Module Download Successful.
- Test the module for correct operation.
Step B
- Press the trigger.
- If the VCM asks for vehicle data, enter the vehicle data, then press store.
- The VCM asks for module data line 1. Enter the data and press store.
- The VCM then asks if there is an additional line of data available for that address. Select YES or NO depending on the information in the As Built Data Sheet.
- Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until the answer is NO for Step 4 .
- The VCM should show a screen stating that the module data was stored. Press the trigger.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU. Press the trigger.
- The VCM completes loading the retrieved data and displays Module Download Successful.
- Test the module for correct operation.
Using the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) When the Original Module is Available
- With the original module still installed, using the VCM and the latest version of the service function card, SELECT: Programmable Module Installation.
- Select the module being installed and press the trigger.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- SELECT: Retrieve Module Configuration - Old ECU. Press the trigger.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- INSTALL new module, SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU. Press the trigger.
- The VCM completes loading the retrieved data and displays Module Download Successful.
- Test the module for correct operation.