Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Definition of Terms
The following are definitions of configuration terms:
Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
PMI is a scan tool process which configures settings in a new module. Data used for the PMI 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 when a strategy/calibration update is available.
To carry out PMI, refer to Programmable Module Installation .
Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming
APIM programming is a process that updates the APIM Consumer Interface Process (CIP) and Vehicle Interface Process (VIP) software. The VIP programming updates the calibration files in the portion of the APIM that interfaces with the Controller Area Network (CAN). The CIP programming updates calibration files in the portion of the APIM that interfaces with mobile phones and other customer devices.
APIM programming uses the VCM to read and program the VIP software through the Data Link Connector (DLC). A web-based OASIS application is used to read and program the CIP software via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable between the scan tool and vehicle USB port. Both the VCM and Oasis application must be running on the scan tool during APIM programming. To carry out APIM programming, refer to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming .
Module Reprogramming
Module reprogramming (also referred to as "flashing") is a scan tool process which updates the strategy/calibration in a module. Module reprogramming is automatically carried out during PMI when a later strategy/calibration is available. Reprogramming a module with the same level of software will not improve module operation or repair a hardware failure.
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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.
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