Module Configuration

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 incorrect operation and/or DTCs setting.

The following are the 3 different methods of configuration:

- Programmable Module Installation (PMI)

- Module reprogramming ("flashing")

- Programmable parameters

Some modules do not support all 3 methods.

Definition of Terms

The following are definitions of configuration terms:

Programmable Module Installation (PMI)

PMI (Programmable Module Installation) is a scan tool process which configures settings in a new module. Data used for the PMI (Programmable Module Installation) 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 (Programmable Module Installation) when a strategy/calibration update is available. To carry out PMI (Programmable Module Installation), refer to Programmable Module Installation (PMI) Programming and Relearning.

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 (Programmable Module Installation).

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 does not improve module operation or repair a hardware failure. Module reprogramming is automatically carried out during PMI (Programmable Module Installation) when a later strategy/calibration is available.

NOTE: Limit module reprogramming to circumstances where a published TSB procedure recommends doing so. (Some modules limit the number of times it can be reprogrammed.)

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

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

APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) programming is a process that updates the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) software. There are two types of programming procedures. The first procedure is service pack installation. To install a service pack, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive is required. The file will be downloaded from the technician service publication web site onto the flash drive. The service pack files are then transferred to the vehicle USB (Universal Serial Bus) port to update the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). The second procedure is a complete flash. The file for the flash procedure is downloaded from the online database. The flash procedure deletes any paired phones that were in the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).

The Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and a web-based On-Line Automotive Service Information System (OASIS) application reads the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module), and displays the available programming options. To carry out APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) programming, refer to Accessories and Optional Equipment.

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. (Some parameters must be changed in multiple modules at the same time.)

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.

Transmission Identification Block

Some PCMs also contain a memory area called a transmission identification block. The PCM transmission identification block commonly stores solenoid body flow data. If the solenoid body information is not correct, transaxle damage or driveability concerns can occur.

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 (Vehicle Identification Number) -specific module configuration record. During vehicle build, the configuration from all modules is downloaded and stored in the As-Built database. As-Built data does 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 web site.

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

Module Configuration and Parameter Chart