Module Configuration

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

Definition of Terms
Calibration update: Some modules are designed to be flashed or reflashed with completely 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 the new module. They can also be configured using the diagnostic tool. Programming the parameters is different from updating the calibrations as no software is changed, only the options already contained in the software.

Some modules must be programmed (configured) as part of the repair procedure. If this procedure is not followed, the module does not function correctly and may set a number of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), including B2477 or P1639, 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 causes concerns or faults.

The diagnostic tool automatically attempts to retrieve the module configuration information from all modules, and from a backup location in the powertrain control module (PCM) when vehicle ID is carried out. If the module and the PCM do not contain correct information, the diagnostic tool either requests As-Built data or displays a list of items that need to be manually configured. The diagnostic tool programs the module based on the data entered. For additional diagnostic tool programming procedures, refer to Programmable Module Installation.

There are 3 different methods that are 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 the diagnostic tool is connected to the vehicle and allowed 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 parameters in their altered state if the diagnostic tool is able to communicate with the old module during vehicle ID. Otherwise, programmable parameters may be needed to return the parameters to the altered state.

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
Calibration update is used to install a new calibration level and strategy into a module.

Vehicle Identification (VID) Block
Some PCMs contain a memory area called a VID block. The PCM VID block may contain the factory settings for the configurable modules unless the PCM is flashed with a new calibration, in which case some PCM parameters may be modified.

Configurable Modules
The vehicle contains the following modules that are configurable:
- anti-lock brake system (ABS) module
- driver climate controlled seat module
- driver seat module (DSM)
- dual electronic automatic temperature control (DEATC) module
- instrument cluster
- navigation system module
- passenger climate controlled seat module
- PCM
- tire pressure monitoring system module
- variable assist power steering (VAPS) module
- vehicle security module

NOTE: To carry out the tire pressure monitoring system module configuration, the vehicle must be driven outside of any enclosed structure to an area that is clear of vehicles equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems.

Programmable Parameters Index:

Programmable Parameters Index