Module Configuration

MODULE CONFIGURATION

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 configured 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.

Module Programming Methods
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 diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)s, 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 cause concerns or faults.

The Worldwide Diagnostic System (WDS) automatically attempts to retrieve the module configuration information from all modules. If the module cannot communicate, the diagnostic tool either requests the As-Built data or displays a list of items that need to be manually configured. The WDS programs the module based on the data entered.

For diagnostic tool information, refer to the general procedures.

There are 3 different methods that are used for module programming:
- programmable module installation (PMI)
- calibration update
- programmable parameters

Some modules do not support all 3 methods.

Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
The PMI method is used when a new, programmable module is installed in the vehicle. It is no longer necessary to command the diagnostic tool to gather module option content from the old module. The diagnostic tool (WDS only) 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 to connect the WDS to the vehicle and allow it to identify the vehicle and obtain configuration data prior to removing any modules.

Calibration Update
Calibration update is used to install a new calibration and strategy into a module.

Programmable Parameters
This method is used to configure parameters that may be modified. Not all features controlled by the module are listed in this configuration method. Refer to the Programmable Parameters 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 maintains the parameters in their altered state if the WDS is able to communicate with the old module during vehicle ID. Otherwise, programmable parameters may be needed to return them to the altered state.

Vehicle Identification (VID) Block
Some powertrain control modules (PCM)s 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 required 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 always reflects the original build of the vehicle as it left the factory. Only contact the As-Built Data Center when directed to do so by the diagnostic tool.

Configurable Modules
The vehicle contains the following configurable modules:
- Smart Junction Box (SJB)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Module
- Instrument Cluster
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM)