Attachment III - Technical Information

OVERVIEW

In some of the affected vehicles, customers could experience one or a combination of the following symptoms: illuminated Malfunction Indicator Light (M IL) or Wrench Light, runs rough, reduced power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, fuel smell from the crankcase, coolant loss, and/or unusual engine noise. These symptoms could be caused by concerns that may eventually result in significant engine damage and a lengthy, costly service repair. Dealers are to reprogram the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and if applicable the Transmission Control Module (TCM) and Instrument Cluster (IC).

SERVICE PROCEDURE

Module Reprogramming

NOTE:
Reprogram appropriate vehicle modules before performing diagnostics and clear all Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) after programming. For DTCs generated after reprogramming, follow normal diagnostic service procedures.

1. Connect a battery charger to maintain battery charge during this reprogramming procedure.

2. Reprogram the PCM to the latest calibration using Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) release 71.04 and higher. Calibration files may also be obtained at the website. When reprogramming the PCM on automatic transmission equipped vehicles, the TCM will also be automatically reprogrammed to the latest level.

3. Using the IDS, check the IC to verify it has the latest calibration installed. If the IC does not have the latest calibration installed, it will need to be reprogrammed to bring it up to the latest calibration.

Important Information For Module Programming

NOTE:
When programming or reprogramming a module, use the following basic checks to ensure programming completes without errors.

^ Make sure the battery is fully charged before carrying out the programming steps and connect IDS/scan tool to a power source.

^ Inspect Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and cables for any damage, make sure scan tool connections are not interrupted during programming.

^ A hardwired internet connection is strongly recommended.

^ Turn off all unnecessary accessories (radio, heated/cooled seats, head lamps, interior lamps, HVAC system, etc.), close doors.

^ Disconnect/depower any aftermarket accessories (remote start, alarm, power inverter, CB radio, etc.).

^ Follow all scan tool on-screen instructions carefully.

^ Disable IDS/scan tool sleep mode, screensaver, hibernation modes.

^ Create all sessions Key On Engine Off (KOEO). Starting the vehicle before creating a session will cause errors within the programming inhale process.

Recovering a PCM/Smart Junction Box (SJB) when programming has resulted in a blank module:

NEVER DELETE THE ORIGINAL SESSION!

1. Obtain the original IDS that was used when the programming error occurred during Module Reprogramming (MR) or Programmable Module Installation (PMI).

2. Disconnect the VCM from the data link connector (DLC) and the IDS.

3. Reconnect the VCM to IDS and then connect to the DLC. Once reconnected, the VCM icon should appear in the corner of the IDS screen. If it does not, troubleshoot the IDS to VCM connection.

4. Locate the ORIGINAL vehicle session when programming failed. This should be the last session used in most cases. If not, use the session created on the date that the programming failed.

NOTE:
If the original session is not listed in the previous session list, click the "Recycle bin" icon at the lower right of the previous session screen. This will load any deleted sessions and allow you to look through them. Double-click the session to restore it.

5. Once the session is loaded, the failed process should resume automatically.

6. If programming does not resume automatically, proceed to the Module Programming menu and select the previously attempted process, Programmable Module Installation (PMI) or Module Reprogramming.

7. Follow all on-screen prompts/instructions.

8. Near the end of programming, the IDS will prompt you to select certain parameters. It is important to make a selection for ALL parameters listed. If the correct selection is already highlighted, you must still choose that selection before clicking the "Tick" mark to complete the configuration.

9. The last screen on the IDS may list additional steps required to complete the programming process. Make sure all applicable steps listed on the screen are followed in order.

NOTE:
AUTOMATIC VEHICLES ONLY: Please advise the customer that this vehicle is equipped with an adaptive transmission shift strategy which allows the vehicle's computer to learn the transmission's unique parameters and improve shift quality. When the adaptive strategy is reset, the computer will begin a relearning process. This relearning process may result in firmer than normal upshifts and downshifts for several days.

NOTE:
Remind dealership service management that they must provide a copy of the Customer Information Sheet to the vehicle owner.