Dakota 4WD V8-4.7L Flex Fuel (2008)
Engine Control Module: Testing and Inspection
PCM/ECM Reprogramming
1 PCM / TCM Flash Procedure
PCM/ECM REPROGRAMMING - GAS
PCM / TCM FLASH REPROGRAMING
This procedure will need to be done when one or more of the following situations are true:
1. A vehicle's Powertrain control module (PCM) has been replaced.
2. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is set "P1602 - PCM Not Programmed."
3. An updated calibration or software release is available for either the PCM or TCM ECUs.
This procedure assumes that the StarSCAN and StarMOBILE devices are configured to your dealership's network with either a wired or wireless
connection. The StarSCAN and StarMOBILE must also be running at the latest operating system and software release level. For more help on how to
network your StarSCAN or StarMOBILE reference the StarSCAN / StarMOBILE Quick Start Networking Guide available on DealerCONNECT >
Service > StarSCAN and StarMOBILE Tools > Online Documentation or at www.dcctools.com, under the Download Center.
Table Of Contents
1. SECTION 1 PCM / TCM FLASH PROCEDURE: (below)
2. REQUIRED TOOLS/EQUIPMENT: See: 2 Required Tools / Equipment
3. TECH TIPS and INFORMATION: See: 3 Tech Tips and Information
4. PARTS REQUIRED: See: 4 Parts Required
SECTION 1 - PCM / TCM FLASH PROCEDURE
If using StarSCAN or StarMOBILE Desktop Client. Go to REPAIR PROCEDURE Using StarSCAN or StarMOBILE Desktop Client
(immediately below)
If using StarMOBILE Standalone Diagnostic Mode. Go To REPAIR PROCEDURE Using StarMOBILE Standalone Diagnostic Mode
REPAIR PROCEDURE Using StarSCAN or StarMOBILE Desktop Client
NOTE: If this flash process is interrupted or aborted, the flash should be restarted.
1. Open the hood of the vehicle and install a battery charger. Verify that the charging rate provides a continuous charge of 13.2 - 13.5 volts.
2. Connect the StarSCAN or StarMOBILE to the vehicle data link connector located under the steering column and turn the ignition key to
the "RUN" position.
3. Power on the StarSCAN or StarMOBILE. If the StarMOBILE is being used, launch the StarMOBILE Desktop Client and connect to the
appropriate StarMOBILE device.
4. Retrieve the old ECU part number. From the tool's Home screen,
a. Select "ECU View"
b. Select "PCM"
c. Select "More Options"
d. Select "ECU Flash"
e. Record the part number at the top of the Flash PCM screen for later reference.
5. Program the ECU as follows:
a. Using the StarSCAN / StarMOBILE at the Home screen, select "ECU View"
b. Select "PCM"
c. Select "More Options"
d. Select "ECU Flash"
e. Select "Browse for New File" and follow the on screen instructions.
f. Highlight the appropriate calibration based on the part number recorded in Step 4e, or by using Year/Model/Engine and appropriate
emissions selection for the vehicle being worked on.
NOTE: If you are not connected to the vehicle, you may also search for flash files by selecting the "Flash Download" button from the
Home screen.
g. Select "Download to Scantool"
h. Once the download is complete, select "Close" and then "Back"
i. Highlight the listed calibration, select "Update Controller" and follow the on screen instructions.
j. When the PCM update is complete, select "OK"
k. Verify that the part number at the top of the Flash PCM screen has updated to the new part number.
NOTE: If this flash process is interrupted or aborted, the flash should be restarted.
