Home ReviewsRefund
Home/Ford/Thunderbird/Ford Thunderbird XI (2000-2005)/Repair manual/Communication Devices/Module Configuration: Other
Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Communication Devices All sections

Module Configuration: Other Ford Thunderbird XI

Communication Devices ~748 words

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 preference items and anti-theft options. The current settings are downloaded from an existing module then uploaded to a new module. They can also be using the diagnostic tool. Programming parameters is very different from updating calibrations as no software is changed only the options already contained in the software.

Some modules must be programmed as part of the repair procedure. If this procedure is not followed the module will not function correctly and may set a number of 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.

WDS will automatically attempt 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 information, the diagnostic tool will either request "As Built" data or display a list of items that you will need to manually configure. The diagnostic tool will program the module based on the data you enter.

For additional WDS/diagnostic tool programming procedures, refer to PROGRAMMABLE MODULE INSTALLATION (PMI) .

There are three different methods that are used for module programming

  1. programmable module installation (PMI)
  2. calibration update
  3. programmable parameters

Some modules do not support all three methods.

Programmable Parameters

Not all features controlled by the module are listed in this configuration method. Refer to the Module Configuration Index for a list of features by system.

If a module that has been modified using programmable parameters needs to be installed, the PMI procedure will maintain the parameters in their altered state if 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 modules that are configurable

  1. anti-lock brake system (ABS) module
  2. dual automatic temperature control (DATC)
  3. remote keyless entry (RKE) module
  4. instrument cluster module
  5. front electronic module (FEM)
  6. rear electronic module (REM)
  7. audio control module (ACM)

Programmable Parameters Index

ModuleCalibration UpdatablePMIProgrammable Parameter
Driver Door Module (DDM)NoYesHorn Chirp
Front Electronic Module (FEM)NoYesShort Drop Down Error Short Drop Up Error Manual Hall Short Error
Rear Electronic Module (REM)NoYesShort Drop Down Error Short Drop Up Error Manual Hall Short Error Autolocks
Instrument ClusterNoYesBeltminder Easy Entry/Exit
Audio Control ModuleNoYesCDDJ Present
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)YesYesFuel Octane Wheel Speed

PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS INDEX

Using The New Generation STAR (NGS) Tester When The Original Body Chassis Electrical Module Is Not Available

  1. Install the new module.
  2. Using the NGS tester and the latest version service function card, SELECT: Programmable Module Installation.
  3. Select: the module being installed.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. SELECT: Retrieve Module Configuration - Old ECU and press trigger.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  7. The NGS will attempt to retrieve module data from the powertrain control module (PCM). If the module data is available go to «STEP A.»(ref-204595-S29699490902005111300000) If the NGS displays: Call As-Built Data Center go to «STEP B»(ref-204595-S21555046752005111300000)

Step A

  1. SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU then press trigger.
  2. The NGS will complete loading the retrieved data and display: Module Download Successful.
  3. Test the module for correct operation.

Step B

  1. Press trigger.
  2. If the NGS asks for vehicle data - enter the vehicle data then press store.
  3. The NGS will ask for module data line 1 - enter data and press store.
  4. The NGS will then ask 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.
  5. Repeat Steps 3 and Steps 4 until the answer is NO for Steps 4 .
  6. The NGS should show a screen stating that module data was stored - press trigger.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  8. SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU then press trigger.
  9. The NGS will complete loading the entered data.

Using The New Generation STAR (NGS) Tester When The Original Body Chassis Electrical Module Is Available

  1. With the original module still installed, using the NGS tester and the latest version service function card, SELECT: Programmable Module Installation.
  2. Select: the module being installed and press trigger.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. SELECT: Retrieve Module Configuration - Old ECU and press trigger.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. INSTALL new module, SELECT: Restore Configuration - New ECU then press trigger.
  7. The NGS will complete loading the retrieved data.

More articles — Module Configuration