APIM Programming

The APIM requires specific programming procedures for correct operation. APIM programming is required when:

• The APIM is replaced
• Directed by a TSB. Updates to resolve SYNC® performance concerns should only be performed when directed by a TSB.
• Feature upgrades are requested. Occasional feature upgrades and/or new Applications can be programmed when they become available. This type of programming is available upon customer request and expense.

There are 3 types of APIM programming available:

• Module Replacement - Used when the APIM has been replaced. This type of programming performs the required provisioning (restores software for newly installed hardware).
• Standard - Used to update the APIM and any currently installed Applications to the latest software level.
• Custom - Used to show all the available software options (including Applications that may not have been installed previously) that can be programmed into the APIM. Use this selection when upgrades become available or as directed by a TSB.

There are 3 types of software installation methods:

• Full Flash (Force CIP) - A CIP program is the entire software package for the APIM. Performing a Full Flash erases the existing APIM software and installs the complete program. A Full Flash should only be performed if a Service Pack is not available. If a Full Flash is performed, all Applications must be re-installed. Performing a Full Flash by selecting Force CIP requires additional programming time and is not necessary unless directed by a TSB.
• Service Pack - A Service Pack update only provides the necessary software to update the existing APIM program to a new level. For example, a Service Pack changes the software program from an 'AA' to an 'AB' version level. It does not delete or overwrite the existing APIM software. A Service Pack is a much smaller program than a Full Flash and requires less downloading and programming time. A Service Pack software installation should always be performed instead of a Full Flash, if possible.
• Applications - Applications are special software programs that may be installed on the APIM. Applications necessary for each vehicle are determined by the vehicle build information stored in the Ford online database. Selecting individual Applications for installation may not be necessary every time the APIM is programmed.

There are some general programming guidelines that are applicable to multiple types of programming:

• Full Flash/Force CIP
  • The media hub must be removed for programming.
  • The diagnostic scan tool and SYNC® Re-Flash Kit (or equivalent), are required to complete the flash procedure.
  • All previously paired phones are deleted from the SYNC® system.
  • The file needs to be downloaded from the Ford online database. Allow for extra time in order to complete the download. The compressed files are between 200 and 400 megabytes (MB), and once downloaded, are extracted to the full size of approximately 2 gigabytes (GB).
  • Once diagnostic scan tool programming is complete, Applications need to be installed with the USB flash drive. This should be accomplished by reinstalling the media hub and connecting the USB flash drive to the media hub.
• Service Pack and Applications
  • A USB flash drive with a minimum 1 gigabyte (GB) storage capacity is required.
  • The file is downloaded from the Ford online database onto the flash drive. The files are then transferred via the flash drive to the APIM through the vehicle USB port.

To perform module replacement programming, refer to ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE (APIM) MODULE REPLACEMENT PROGRAMMING 

To perform standard programming, refer to ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE (APIM) STANDARD PROGRAMMING 

To perform custom programming, refer to ACCESSORY PROTOCOL INTERFACE MODULE (APIM) CUSTOM PROGRAMMING