Programming 2nd PCM
Programming 2nd PCM
I recently ordered a second PCM for my truck so that I can send it off to HP tuners to have it unlocked for tuning. I have to program the module before sending it to HP tuners and I'm wondering if it's possible to have two PCMs programmed to the same truck that are essentially identical from a PATS standpoint so that I can swap PCMs without having to run a PMI or deal with PATs issues each time I swap PCMs.
According to Alldata, PCM replacement only requires a PMI, so it doesn't sound like this will cause any PATS issues or require additional steps, but this also isn't a scenario that I would expect Ford to give specific guidance on. If anyone can provide some insight into whether or not this is possible or what specific steps need to be taken to make it possible, I'd would love to hear about it.
According to Alldata, PCM replacement only requires a PMI, so it doesn't sound like this will cause any PATS issues or require additional steps, but this also isn't a scenario that I would expect Ford to give specific guidance on. If anyone can provide some insight into whether or not this is possible or what specific steps need to be taken to make it possible, I'd would love to hear about it.
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My understanding , although possibly not what you are asking, is that you can send the PCM away for unlocking, and then have a dealer flash it when you get it back, an exact clone of the factory item, and both are interchangeable.
Thought of doing this myself, but as I am supercharged, support for that won't be immediate.
Thought of doing this myself, but as I am supercharged, support for that won't be immediate.
I contacted HP tuners to get clarification on a couple things they told me that the PCM must be programmed to my truck before I send it in. They also said that they shouldn't having any issues unlocking my factory PCM (ML3Z-12A650-GVB) or the newer version that replaced it (PL3Z-12A650-FDA). I'm not sure what the difference between the two part numbers is, but the original part number has been superseded and wasn't available when I ordered my spare.
It's my first day
Joined: Sep 2014
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From: Kamloops, BC
@Jesse - Infotainment might know the answer. PATS is an intergraded function of the BCM so I don’t see that being an issue.
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From: Miami, FL
@Jesse - Infotainment might know the answer. PATS is an intergraded function of the BCM so I don’t see that being an issue.
@Jesse - Infotainment might know the answer. PATS is an intergraded function of the BCM so I don’t see that being an issue.
PATS System Operation and Component Description w/ Keyless Vehicle System
The PATS function is controlled by the BCM, the PCM, ABS, and SOBDMC (if equipped).
When the START/STOP button is pressed, a voltage signal is sent to the BCM. When the BCM detects the START/STOP button is pressed, it begins the key initialization sequence by activating the PATS center antenna and keyless entry rear antenna. Each antenna transmits a low frequency signal with an approximate range of 1m (3ft). The passive key activates if it is within range of the antennas. The BCM is able to determine the passive key location (inside or outside the vehicle) based on the input from the antennas.
When the passive key activates, it sends the PATS identification code to the RTM via a high frequency signal. The RTM interprets the high frequency signal from the passive key and sends the information to the BCM over the LIN based circuit.
If a programmed passive key is detected inside the vehicle, the BCM transitions the ignition from OFF to ON.
When the ignition transitions from OFF to ON and the modules initialize, the PCM sends a target 1 challenge request, the SOBDMC sends a target 2 challenge request (if equipped), and the ABS module replies to a target 1 challenge request to the PCM. The BCM replies and if the correct identification is received, the PATS disables and allows the vehicle to start. If the PATS prevents the vehicle from starting, a DTC sets in one of the modules.
The PATS and the RKE system share operation of several components including the passive keys, the BCM, and the RTM.
If there is a concern with either of these components, the PATS and the RKE system are both affected.
In the event of a no start, place a programmed passive key in the backup location to allow the vehicle to start. The PATS center antenna activates the passive key when the START/STOP button is pressed in the event the batteries are depleted within the passive key.
NOTE: If available as a selection on the diagnostic scan tool, the passive start feature is a programmable parameter and can be enabled/disabled. If the feature is disabled, the features to passively enter and start the vehicle are inoperative. To start the vehicle, the passive key must be placed in the backup starting location.
The BCM controls the ignition modes and in conjunction with the PCM, ABS, and the SOBDMC (if equipped), controls the PATS.
The PATS function is controlled by the BCM, the PCM, ABS, and SOBDMC (if equipped).
When the START/STOP button is pressed, a voltage signal is sent to the BCM. When the BCM detects the START/STOP button is pressed, it begins the key initialization sequence by activating the PATS center antenna and keyless entry rear antenna. Each antenna transmits a low frequency signal with an approximate range of 1m (3ft). The passive key activates if it is within range of the antennas. The BCM is able to determine the passive key location (inside or outside the vehicle) based on the input from the antennas.
When the passive key activates, it sends the PATS identification code to the RTM via a high frequency signal. The RTM interprets the high frequency signal from the passive key and sends the information to the BCM over the LIN based circuit.
If a programmed passive key is detected inside the vehicle, the BCM transitions the ignition from OFF to ON.
When the ignition transitions from OFF to ON and the modules initialize, the PCM sends a target 1 challenge request, the SOBDMC sends a target 2 challenge request (if equipped), and the ABS module replies to a target 1 challenge request to the PCM. The BCM replies and if the correct identification is received, the PATS disables and allows the vehicle to start. If the PATS prevents the vehicle from starting, a DTC sets in one of the modules.
The PATS and the RKE system share operation of several components including the passive keys, the BCM, and the RTM.
If there is a concern with either of these components, the PATS and the RKE system are both affected.
In the event of a no start, place a programmed passive key in the backup location to allow the vehicle to start. The PATS center antenna activates the passive key when the START/STOP button is pressed in the event the batteries are depleted within the passive key.
NOTE: If available as a selection on the diagnostic scan tool, the passive start feature is a programmable parameter and can be enabled/disabled. If the feature is disabled, the features to passively enter and start the vehicle are inoperative. To start the vehicle, the passive key must be placed in the backup starting location.
The BCM controls the ignition modes and in conjunction with the PCM, ABS, and the SOBDMC (if equipped), controls the PATS.
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I contacted HP tuners to get clarification on a couple things they told me that the PCM must be programmed to my truck before I send it in. They also said that they shouldn't having any issues unlocking my factory PCM (ML3Z-12A650-GVB) or the newer version that replaced it (PL3Z-12A650-FDA). I'm not sure what the difference between the two part numbers is, but the original part number has been superseded and wasn't available when I ordered my spare.
I was also told they won't support Whipple Calibrations initially, I wonder if that is true or not....
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