Module Configuration

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

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.

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 PI 63 9, 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 will cause concerns or faults.

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

For additional WDS/diagnostic tool programming procedures, refer to Programmable Module Installation.

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

Some modules do not support all 3 methods.

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 you connect the diagnostic tool to the vehicle and allow it to identify the vehicle and obtain configuration data prior to removing any modules.

Programmable Parameters
If a module that has been modified using programmable parameters needs to be installed, the PMI procedure maintains the configured parameters if the diagnostic tool is able to communicate with the old module during vehicle ID. Otherwise, programmable parameters may be needed to return the module to the configured state.

Vehicle Identification (VID) Block
Some powertrain control modules (PCM) may contain a memory area called a VID block. The VID block is used to store powertrain configuration information. The PCM VID block may contain the factory settings for the configurable modules unless the PCM has been 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. Contact the As-Built Data Center only when directed to do so by the diagnostic tool.

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

Configurable Modules
The vehicle contains the following modules that are configurable:
- anti-lock brake system (ABS) module (vehicle must be level during programming)
- driver seat module (DSM)
- electronic automatic temperature control (EATC) module
- instrument cluster
- PCM
- tire pressure monitoring system module
- vehicle security module

Programmable Parameters Index:

Programmable Parameters Index