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
Check
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NOTE: Starting the engine prior to creating a programming session may prevent certain part number information from being inhaled by the IDS. This may cause programming errors in some modules.
Start the programming session in Key ON Engine OFF.
- Make sure the vehicle battery is fully charged or is connected to a battery charger.
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NOTE: A hardwired internet connection is recommended.
Inspect the Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and cables for damage. Make sure cables remain connected throughout the programming procedure.
- Turn off all unnecessary accessories, such as radio, A/C, climate controlled seats, headlamps, interior and demand lamps.
- Disconnect any aftermarket accessories, such as remote start, security alarm and power inverter.
- For Plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, disconnect the external charge cord from the charge port.
- Disable Microsoft Windows sleep mode, screensaver and hibernation modes.
Programming
- Follow all on-screen instructions carefully, especially any key movements IDS directs to perform. Allow the startup and power down routines to complete.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the programming process. If programming errors occur, continue to Step 3. If no programming errors occur, continue to Step 8.
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NOTE: Perform the following steps when the module programming procedure has resulted in a blank module.
Obtain the original IDS used when the programming error occurred during Module Reprogramming or PMI.
- Disconnect and reconnect the VCM from the DLC and the IDS.
- Start a new IDS session.
- If the IDS can read the VIN, the IDS will default to the failed session.
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NOTE: Sessions with failed programming will be highlighted in red. If the original session is not listed, click the Recycling bin icon in the lower left corner of the previous session screen to locate any deleted sessions.
If the IDS cannot read the VIN, locate the original failed vehicle programming session.
- Once the session is loaded, the failed process should resume automatically.
- If programming does not resume, proceed to the Module Programming menu and select the process previously attempted, PMI or Module Reprogramming. Follow all on-screen instructions.
- When the IDS prompts to select certain parameters, click on ALL parameters listed, including items already highlighted.
- Perform any additional programming steps in the order directed by the IDS to complete the programming process.
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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.