Electrical

General Procedures — Module Programming

28steps
~168min
4/5difficulty
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Check

  1. Start the programming session with the ignition off, engine off, and turn the ignition to KOEO before starting programming.
  2. Make sure the vehicle battery is fully charged or connected to a battery charger. Battery voltage must be 12.6 - 13.6 volts while programming the vehicle.
  3. Inspect the VCM II, VCMM, or later-level device and cables for damage. Make sure the cables remain connected throughout the programming procedure.
  4. Turn off all unnecessary accessories, such as the radio, air conditioning, heated/cooled seats, headlamps, interior and courtesy lamps.
  5. Disconnect any aftermarket accessories, such as remote start, security alarm, and power inverter.
  6. For plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, disconnect the external charging cord from the charge port.
  7. Disable Microsoft Windows sleep mode, screen saver, and hibernation modes.
  8. Make sure there is a good internet connection and the VCM II, VCMM, or later-level device is properly connected to the DLC.

Programming

    • If replacing a module, do not connect the new module to the Wi-Fi network before completing the scan tool module replacement programming, as this may cause programming concerns.
    • This programming procedure deletes all phones paired to the SYNC system when programming the APIM.
    • To prevent timeout errors and minimize programming time, a wired internet connection is strongly recommended during programming.
    • Make sure the FDRS version and software levels are up to date.
    Connect the battery charger to the vehicle and select the low charge setting. The negative lead of the battery charger must be connected to a clean chassis ground, not the negative battery post.
  1. Connect the diagnostic scanner to the power source. The time required for programming may exceed the run time of the diagnostic scanner.
  2. Connect the diagnostic scanner to the DLC.
  3. Log in to FDRS.
  4. Identify/enter the vehicle to be programmed in FDRS.
  5. Click "Read VIN from Vehicle" or enter the VIN manually.
  6. Select the Dashboard tab.
  7. From the list on the left side of the screen, select the module for which the programming procedure is to be performed.
  8. There are 3 types of module programming:
    • Programmable Module Installation (PMI) - When a module is replaced, this type of programming performs the necessary preparation (software restore for the newly installed module).
    • Module Configuration - Downloads configuration data to the module. The module may also be reprogrammed, depending on the current software level, when this option is selected.
    • Software Update - Updates the module and all currently installed applications to the latest software levels. This option is not available if the module is already at the latest level.
  9. From the list on the right side of the screen, select PMI or Module Configuration.
  10. Carefully follow all on-screen instructions.
  11. After programming is complete, the message "Programming completed successfully" is displayed.

Recovery

  1. Disconnect the VCM II, VCMM or later level from the DLC and PC.
  2. Start FDRS and log in.
  3. In the Device Manager window that appears, select CANCEL.
  4. Select the appropriate VIN in the vehicle identification menu or use manual VIN entry and select GO.
  5. In the Automotive Communication Device Not Detected window that populates, select CONTINUE. If the Device Explorer window appears, select CANCEL.
  6. After the session starts, reconnect the VCM II/VCMM to the DLC and PC. The VCM II/VCMM icon should turn green in the lower right corner of the screen. If it does not, troubleshoot the FDRS connection to the VCM II or VCMM.
  7. In the Toolbox menu, navigate to the faulty module and download/run PMI. Follow the on-screen instructions. When asked whether the original module is installed, select NO and continue the application installation.
  8. After programming is complete, a list of additional steps required to complete the programming process may appear on the screen. Make sure all applicable steps are performed in order.

Test yourself

A quick Ford Escape quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.