FixVault

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 incorrect operation and/or DTCs setting.

The following are the 3 different methods of configuration:

Some modules do not support all 3 methods.

Definition of Terms 

The following are definitions of configuration terms:

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) .

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.
NOTE: Some modules are reprogrammed in coordination with other modules. Follow the Integrated Diagnostic System(IDS) key cycling instructions carefully to avoid reprogramming errors, including failure of programming one or more of the modules.

Accessory Protocol Interface Module(APIM) Programming 

Accessory Protocol Interface Module(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 Vehicle Communication Module(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 USB port and vehicle USB cable. Both the VCM and Universal Serial Bus(USB) cable must remain connected, and OASIS application must be running on the scan tool during APIM programming. Carry out APIM programming. Refer to the appropriate Information and Entertainment Systems article for the procedure.

Programmable Parameters 

Programmable parameters are customer preference items that may be modified by the dealer via the scan tool or in some cases, modified by the customer following a procedure listed in the 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 cruise 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 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.

Module Configuration and Parameter Chart 

Module Module Address Requires PMI Reprogram/ Flash Capable Requires Adaptive Learning or Calibration Available Programmable Parameters
ABS module 760 Yes Yes (with RSC®) Yes Front/rear tone rings
Interactive vehicle dynamics initialization
TBC module
Accessory Protocol Interface Module(APIM) 7D0 Yes Yes No Stereo in pass-through
Audio Digital Signal Processing(DSP) module 78B Yes Yes No None
Audio Front Control Module(ACM) 727 Yes Yes No Clock display (without navigation ACM)
PAM (with navigation ACM)
Auxiliary Heater Control Module(AHCM) 7E3 No No No None
Body Control Module(BCM) 726 Yes Yes Yes 2- or 4-door configuration
Ambient light sensor
Autolamps
Axle ratio
Cruise control
Daytime running lamps
Fog lamps
Front turn lamp outage configuration
Police dark car feature
Smart unlocking
Stop and tail lamp outage configuration
Rear turn lamp outage configuration
Tire placard pressure
Tire size
Circuit Deactivation Ignition Module(CDIM) 7EA No Yes No None
Dual Climate Controlled Seat Module(DCSM) 776 Yes Yes No None
Driver Seat Module(DSM) 744 Yes Yes No None
Front Controls Interface Module(FCIM) 7AF No No No None
Global Positioning System Module(GPSM) 709 Yes Yes No None
HVAC module 733 Yes Yes No None
Heated Steering Wheel Module(HSWM) 714 Yes Yes No None
Instrument Panel Cluster(IPC) 720 Yes Yes No Autolock
Autounlock
Number of fuel senders
Number of fuel tanks
Engish/Metric units
Gallon type
Metric display type
Language
Engine hours
Engine idle hours
Welcome/farewell strategy
TBC
Tank size
Speedometer bias
Belt-Minder®
Parking Aid Module(PAM) 73E No Yes No None
PCM 7E8 Yes Yes Yes None
Restraints Control Module(RCM) 737 Yes Yes No Driver seat Belt-Minder®
Steering Column Control Module(SCCM) 72C Yes Yes No Courtesy wipe
LH steering wheel switch configuration
Trailer Brake Control(TBC) module 757 No No No None
Trailer Module (TRM) 78B Yes Yes No None
Transfer Case Control Module(TCCM) 761 No Yes No None
Transmission Control Module(TCM) 7E9 No Yes No None
Tire Pressure Monitor(TPM) module (also known as Radio Transceiver Module [RTM]) 759 No Yes No None