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.
Service Programming Methods
The 4 methods of programming a control module and the proper tools for each method are as follows:
- Remote Programming:
- The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool, Techline Terminal or a personal computer equipped with General Motors Corporation authorized programming software-The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool is used as an interface between the vehicle and the Techline Terminal or a personal computer.
- The control module is installed in the vehicle
- Pass Thru Programming:
- The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool, Techline Terminal or a personal computer equipped with General Motors Corporation authorized programming software - The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool is used as an interface between the vehicle and the Techline Terminal or a personal computer.
- The control module is installed in the vehicle.
- Off-Board Remote Programming, vehicle NOT available:
- The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool, off-board programming adapter (OBPA), Techline Terminal or a personal computer equipped with General Motors Corporation authorized programming software - The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool is used as an interface between the vehicle and the Techline Terminal or a personal computer.
- The control module is NOT installed in a vehicle
- Off-Board Pass Thru Programming:
- The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool, off-board programming adapter (OBPA), Techline Terminal or a personal computer equipped with General Motors Corporation authorized programming software - The Tech 2(tm) or other scan tool is used as an interface between the vehicle and the Techline Terminal or a personal computer.
- The control module is NOT installed in a vehicle
All 4 methods may not be available for every vehicle.
For information on programming a control module using one of the methods listed above, refer to Service Programming System (SPS) (Remote Procedure) or Service Programming System (SPS) (Pass-Thru Procedure) or Service Programming System (SPS) (Off Board Remote Procedure) or Service Programming System (SPS) (Off Board Pass-Thru Procedure) .
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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.