Principles of Operation

Module Configuration

Principles of Operation

Configurable modules accommodate a variety of vehicle options, eliminating the need for many unique modules for one vehicle line. These modules must be configured when replaced as part of a repair procedure. Configurable modules should not be exchanged between vehicles since the settings are unique to each vehicle. Failure to configure a new module may result in improper operation and/or DTCs setting.

The 3 different methods of configuration are:

- Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
- Module reprogramming ("flashing")
- Programmable parameters

Some modules do not support all 3 methods.

Definition of Terms

The definitions of configuration terms are:

Programmable Module Installation (PMI)

PMI is a scan tool process which configures settings in a new module. Data used for the PMI process is automatically downloaded from the original module and stored when a scan tool session is started. If this data cannot be retrieved from the module being replaced, the scan tool may prompt for As-Built data entry or display a list of parameter values that need to be manually selected. Some modules are reprogrammed during PMI when a strategy/calibration update is available. To carry out PMI , refer to Programmable Module Installation (PMI) Programmable Module Installation (PMI).

NOTE: It is important that the scan tool identifies the vehicle and obtains configuration data prior to removing any modules. The new module must be able to communicate with the scan tool in order to carry out PMI.

Module Reprogramming

Module reprogramming (also referred to as "flashing") is a scan tool process which updates the strategy/calibration in a module. Reprogramming a module with the same level of software will not improve module operation or repair a hardware failure. Module reprogramming is automatically carried out during PMI when a later strategy/calibration is available.

NOTE: Module reprogramming should be limited to circumstances where a published TSB procedure recommends doing so.

NOTE: A module cannot communicate with other modules on the communication network while being reprogrammed. Clear any network communication DTCs which may have been set in other modules during the reprogramming process.

Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming

APIM programming is a process that updates the APIM Consumer Interface Processor (CIP) and Vehicle Interface Processor (VIP) software. The VIP programming updates the calibration files in the portion of the APIM which interfaces with the Controller Area Network (CAN). The CIP programming updates calibration files in the portion of the APIM that interfaces with mobile phones and other customer devices.

APIM programming uses the VCM to read and program the VIP software through the Data Link Connector (DLC). A web-based On-Line Automotive Service Information System (OASIS) application is used to read and program the CIP software via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable between the scan tool and vehicle USB port. Both the VCM and OASIS application must be running on the scan tool during APIM programming. To carry out APIM programming, refer to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming Accessory Protocol Interface Module Programming. To carry out APIM software level check, refer to Accessories and Optional Equipment.

Programmable Parameters

Programmable parameters are customer preference items that may be modified by the dealer via scan tool or in some cases modified by the customer following a procedure listed in the vehicle Owner's Literature. While many configuration options may exist for a module, only a few of these options are programmable parameters.

Adaptive Learning and Calibration

Some modules require a separate learning procedure be carried out if replaced as part of a repair procedure. For adaptive learning and calibration instructions, refer to the specific module removal and installation procedures.

Vehicle Identification (VID) Block

Some PCMs contain a memory area called a Vehicle Identification (VID) block. The PCM VID block commonly stores powertrain configuration items such as Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), tire size, axle ratio, and whether or not the vehicle is equipped with speed control.

Module Address

A unique module address is assigned to each module on the network for identification.

As-Built Data

As-Built data is a VIN-specific module configuration record. During vehicle build, the configuration from all modules is downloaded and stored in the As-Built database. As-Built data will not reflect customer preference items that have been changed from the default state. These items will need to be changed using programmable parameters after the module is configured.

NOTE: It is not necessary to obtain As-Built data unless directed to do so by the scan tool. This data may be accessed from the technician service publication website.

The following chart lists As-Built data addresses and describes specific module configuration information:

Module Configuration and Parameter Chart

Module Configuration and Parameter Chart (Part 1):

Module Configuration and Parameter Chart (Part 2):