Calibration Research Tips: Ford/Lincoln Module Programming

While searching for information on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on an OEM repair information site, you may come across unique calibration procedures or events. These events can vary by year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a closer look at Ford/Lincoln module programming.

When working on ADAS, looking for calibration requirements is common practice. However, sometimes there is more that needs to be done before getting to the calibration stage of a repair. Ford/Lincoln has specific sensors (modules) that require programming before a calibration or system check can be performed.

If a module is undamaged and will be removed and installed, other than any required calibrations, no other action typically needs to be taken. However, if a module needs to be replaced, the replacement module may require programming.

Ford/Lincoln repair procedures will specify when module programming is required. There is also a section in the Workshop manual that provides information on module programming. There are two different methods than can be used to program a new module. The first process is called Programmable Module Installation (PMI). This is a process where data is downloaded from the existing module, then uploaded to the new module. Ideally, you will want to download the information from the damaged part. The data transfer and programming is performed through the scan tool.

The second process is used if a module is damaged to a point where data retrieval is not possible. This will allow programming for a module with "As-Built" data. This is VIN-specific module data that was compiled during the vehicle build. Ford/Lincoln states the following about As-Built data, "It is not necessary to obtain As-Built data unless directed to do so by the diagnostic scan tool. This data is retrieved automatically from the technician service publication website."

To access the Module Configuration - System Operation and Component Description information:

1. Go to www.motorcraftservice.com
2. Log in or purchase a subscription
3. Click on your subscription (middle of page)
4. Enter a year/make/model or VIN
5. Click on Workshop tab (top of page)
6. Click on 4. Electrical (left-hand side of screen)
7. Click on 18. Electrical Distribution (left-hand side of screen)
8. Click on 418-01 Module Configuration (left-hand side of screen)
9. Click on Description and Operation (left-hand side of screen)
10. Click on Module Configuration - System Operation and Component Description (left-hand side of screen)

To access Module Programming:

1. Click on 4. Electrical (left-hand side of screen)
2. Click on 18. Electrical Distribution (left-hand side of screen)
3. Click on 418-01 Module Configuration (left-hand side of screen)
4. Click on General Procedures (left-hand side of screen)
5. Click on Module Programming (left-hand side of screen)

Understanding which modules need to have information downloaded and transferred to the new module and where to find this programing information helps to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

For additional Ford/Lincoln information, check out the following pages:
Ford OEM Information
Lincoln OEM Information

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
ADAS, Calibration, And Scanning Article Hotspot
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Collision Information Website Access: Ford/Lincoln
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