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.
2011 Ford Explorer FWD V6-3.5LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Engine Control Module: Service and Repair
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Exploded View
Removal
1. If servicing the PCM (Powertrain Control Module), the module configuration must be retrieved before the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is removed. Connect the scan tool to the vehicle. Allow the scan tool to identify the vehicle and obtain configuration data. All PMI (Programmable Module Installation) information will automatically be retrieved by the scan tool.
2. Remove the cowl panel. REFER to Cowl Panel Service and Repair.
3. Disconnect the 3 PCM (Powertrain Control Module) electrical connectors.
4. Remove the 2 nuts and the PCM (Powertrain Control Module).
Installation
NOTE: PCM (Powertrain Control Module) replacement DOES NOT require new keys or programming of keys.
NOTE: After the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is installed, the module configuration must be restored. Using the scan tool, perform the PMI (Programmable Module Installation) procedure following the on-screen instructions.
NOTE: After the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is installed, the PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) must be reprogrammed. Carry out the Parameter Reset procedure. For vehicles with Intelligent Access, REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset. For vehicles without Intelligent Access, REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset.
1. Install the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and the 2 nuts.
- Tighten to 8 Nm (71 lb-in).
2. Connect the 3 PCM (Powertrain Control Module) electrical connectors.
3. Install the cowl panel. REFER to Cowl Panel Service and Repair.
4. NOTE: If the PMI (Programmable Module Installation) procedure was not successful in downloading the data from the vehicles original PCM (Powertrain Control Module), then the oil life data of the vehicle is lost. If this occurs, and the oil life cannot be determined through service history or customer interview, it is recommended the vehicle engine oil and filter be changed and the oil minder reset.
Restore the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) configuration. Using the scan tool, perform the PMI (Programmable Module Installation) procedure following the on-screen instructions.
5. Reprogram the PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System). Carry out the Parameter Reset procedure. For vehicles with Intelligent Access, REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset. For vehicles without Intelligent Access, REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) Parameter Reset.
Factory Service Tools
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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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