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.
Module Programming
Module Programming Menu
Module Programming is listed under the Toolbox tab after starting an IDS session with a vehicle. The module programming menu is disabled when a manual vehicle session is created.
The Module Programming menu has 4 selections:
- Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
- Module Reprogramming
- Programmable Parameters
- As-Built
These selections may not be present for all vehicles.
Programmable Module Installation (PMI)
Programmable Module Installation (PMI) is a scan tool process which configures settings in a new module. Data used for the Programmable Module Installation (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 Programmable Module Installation (PMI) when a strategy/calibration update is available.
It is important that the scan tool identifies the vehicle and obtains configuration data prior to removing any modules. The new module must be able to communicate with the scan tool in order to carry out Programmable Module Installation (PMI).
Module Programming
Module reprogramming (also referred to as "flashing") is a scan tool process which updates the strategy/calibration in a module. During module programming, the IDS will read the current software levels within the module and compare this information with the IDS database. If there is an update, it will be displayed on the IDS screen.
Reprogramming a module with the same level of software does not improve module operation or repair a hardware failure. Module reprogramming is automatically carried out during Programmable Module Installation (PMI) when a later strategy/calibration is available.
Limit module reprogramming to circumstances where a published FSA, TSB or SSM procedure recommends doing so.
A module cannot communicate with other modules on the communication network while being reprogrammed. After the reprogramming process, clear any network communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) which may have been set in other modules.
Some modules are reprogrammed in coordination with other modules. Follow the IDS key cycling instructions carefully to avoid reprogramming errors, including failure of programming one or more of the modules.
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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.