Grand Marquis V8-4.6L VIN V Flex Fuel (2006)
Information Bus: Testing and Inspection
Module Configuration
Principles of Operation
PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
Some modules must be programmed as part of the repair procedure. If this procedure is not followed, the module does not function correctly and may set
a number of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), including B2477 or P1639, which indicate that necessary data has not been programmed into the module.
NOTE: The vehicle must be stationary and level, with all accessories off, while configuring modules.
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, cause concerns or faults.
The diagnostic tool 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 information, the diagnostic tool
either requests As-Built data or displays a list of items that are needed to be manually configured. The diagnostic tool programs the module based on the
data entered.
There are 3 different methods that are used for module programming:
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programmable module installation (PMI)
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calibration update
-
programmable parameters
Some modules do not support all 3 methods.
Definition of Terms
Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
The PMI method is used when a new programmable module is installed on the vehicle. It is no longer necessary to command the diagnostic tool to
gather module option content from the old module. The diagnostic tool automatically obtains any available module option content information from
the old module during the vehicle ID routine that runs when the diagnostic tool is initially connected to the vehicle. It is important that the diagnostic
tool is connected to the vehicle and allowed to identify the vehicle and obtain configuration data prior to any module removal.
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 diagnostic tool is able to communicate with the old module during vehicle ID. Otherwise, you may need to use programmable parameters to
return the parameters to the altered state.
Calibration Update
Some modules are designed to be flashed or reflashed with completely new software packages. This process of reflashing the module is a calibration
update.
A calibration update should be carried out only upon notification (such as a Technical Service Bulletin [TSB]). Also, if a module sets DTC U2050,
this indicates no application is present and reflashing of the software application is required. If a module sets DTC U2051, this indicates no calibration
is present and reflashing of calibration is required.
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 required to be downloaded from an existing module, then uploaded to a new module. The customer preference items can be
configured using the diagnostic tool. Programming parameters is different from updating calibrations as no software is changed, only the options
already contained in the software.
Vehicle Identification (VID) Block
Some PCMs contain a memory area called a VID block.
The PCM VID block may contain the factory settings for the configurable modules unless the PCM is flashed with a new calibration, in which case
some PCM parameters may be modified.
As-Built Data Center
The As-Built Data Center maintains a record of the vehicle configuration in a database. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is necessary to obtain
this information. The As-Built Data Center records the applicable module configurations stored in each module before the vehicle leaves the factory.
The As-Built Data Center data always reflects the original build of the vehicle as it left the factory. Contact the As-Built Data Center only when
directed to do so by the diagnostic tool.
Inspection and Verification
