On-Board Programming

2001 Chevrolet Chevy Express G2500, Van Passenger Extended, 5.0 MSECTION On-Board Programming
NOTE: DO NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or you are directed by a General Motors Corporation service bulletin. Programming a control module at any other time will not permanently correct a customers concern.

Before Programming a Control Module

  • Ensure the following conditions are met before programming a control module:
    • Vehicle system voltage.
      • There is no charging system concern. All charging system concerns must be repaired before programming a control module.
      • Battery voltage is more than 12 volts but less than 16 volts. Battery must be charged before programming control module if battery voltage is low.
      • A battery charger is NOT connected to vehicle's battery. Incorrect system voltage or voltage fluctuations from a battery charger, may cause programming failure or control module damage.
      • Turn off or disable any system that may put a load on vehicle's battery, such as twilight sentinel, interior lights, daytime running lights (applying parking brake, on most vehicles, disables daytime running lights system), and HVAC systems.
    • Ignition switch is in proper position. Scan tool prompts you to turn ignition on, engine off. DO NOT change position of ignition switch during programming procedure, unless instructed to do so.
    • All tool connections are secure, such as RS-232, connection at Data Link Connector (DLC), and voltage supply circuits.
    • DO NOT disturb tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.

On-Board Programming

  1. Turn ignition off.
  2. Install the Tech 2® to the DLC.
  3. Turn ignition on, engine off.
  4. Turn all vehicle accessories off.
  5. With Tech 2®, select SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
  6. Identify vehicle information as requested by Tech 2®.
  7. Select type of module you are programming.
  8. Select type of programming to be performed.
  9. Verify displayed VIN with vehicle VIN. If displayed VIN does not match actual VIN, write down actual VIN and correct VIN at Techline® terminal.
  10. When complete, exit SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
  11. Turn Tech 2® off and disconnect Tech 2® from vehicle.
  12. Turn ignition off.
  13. Connect Tech 2® to Techline® terminal.
  14. Select SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
  15. Select Tech 2® as tool you are using.
  16. Select type of programming to be performed.
  17. Verify displayed VIN with vehicle VIN. Correct VIN as necessary.
  18. Select type of module you are programming.
  19. Identify what type of programming that you are performing.
    • Normal. This type of programming is for updating an existing calibration or programming a new controller.
    • Vehicle Configuration Index (VCI). This selection is used if vehicle VIN is unavailable or not recognized by Techline® terminal. Observe, you will need to contact Techline® Customer Support center to use this option.
    • Reconfigure. This is to reconfigure a vehicle, such as tire size and axle ratio changes.
  20. Select appropriate calibration file.
  21. Ensure all connections are secure.
  22. Select REPROG to initiate download of new calibration to Tech 2®.
  23. After download is complete, turn Tech 2® off.
  24. Disconnect Tech 2® from Techline® terminal.
  25. Install Tech 2® to DLC.
  26. Turn Tech 2® on.
  27. Turn ignition on, engine off.
  28. Select SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
  29. NOTE: Important DO NOT turn ignition off if programming procedure is interrupted or unsuccessful. Ensure that all PCM and DLC connections are secure and Techline® operating software is up to date. Attempt to reprogram PCM. If PCM cannot be programmed, replace PCM.
  30. Select PROGRAM.
  31. After download is complete, EXIT service programming.
  32. Turn ignition off for 30 seconds.
  33. Turn Tech 2® off.
  34. If a PCM is replaced, the following service procedures must be performed: CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR , INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE COMPLETE SYSTEM SET PROCEDURE  under INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES, and THEFT DETERRENT PASSWORD LEARN PROCEDURE  .

Programming Verification

  1. Using scan tool, clear DTCs.
  2. Attempt to start engine.
  3. Repeat SERVICE PROGRAMMING procedure if engine does not start or operates poorly. Perform the following procedures before programming PCM:
    • Ensure PCM and DLC connections are okay.
    • Ensure Techline® operating software is up to date.
    • Ensure calibration part number is correct for vehicle.
  4. Attempt to program PCM. If PCM still cannot be programmed properly, replace PCM. You must program replacement PCM.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.