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Anybody know how to use the FORD IDS & VCM for reprogramming modules?

darkostoj

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 24, 2009
Messages
144
Location
Detroit
Hi,

I bought a 17 F250 that needs some work, and it needs the BCM replaced.

I bought the IDS software, and VCM and it works as it should.

I have never programmed a BCM before and was wondering if anybody here might be able to point me in the right direction since this is difficult information to find online.

When I install the new BCM (bought from dealer) I can't connect to the PCM, but I can connect to the PCM with the old BCM installed.

Am I doing something wrong?

Thanks!
 
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larryforce

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 16, 2014
Messages
164
You can start a session with the old bcm in, then swapp the modules. Them go to module programming and program the bcm with as built data.
 
OP
D

darkostoj

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 24, 2009
Messages
144
Location
Detroit
You can start a session with the old bcm in, then swapp the modules. Them go to module programming and program the bcm with as built data.

I wasn't able to get a connection to the PCM with the new BCM installed.

I put the old BCM in and was able to get a connection then I went to program the BCM and it told me to install the new module on screen and when I did it the program said I had to do the PATS function.

When I tried that a screen popped up saying I have to subscribe to NASTF which requires background checks, insurance, another $400 (For a 2 year license), and I have to wait for it to process.

I poked around for a while trying to get the PATS data from the old BCM to install into the new one but had no luck.... :(

Its a 2017 F250 if that makes any difference.
 
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billford

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 26, 2016
Messages
81
From the service manual:

Installation

NOTE: If installing a new BCM, the ignition cannot be turned on until 2 keys are programmed to the vehicle. The BCM still communicates with the diagnostic scan tool with the ignition off. If necessary, use the previous diagnostic scan tool session or start a diagnostic scan tool session using the PCM part number or tear tag number located on the PCM.

NOTE: If installing a new BCM, verify at least 2 of the vehicle keys are available prior to carrying out this procedure.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

NOTE: Some replacement BCM may be in transport or factory mode. Follow the steps to deactivate transport or factory mode.

Deactivate transport or factory mode in the BCM.
Refer to: Transport Mode Deactivation (419-10 Multifunction Electronic Modules, General Procedures).
Refer to: Factory Mode Deactivation (419-10 Multifunction Electronic Modules, General Procedures).

NOTE: Carry out the remaining steps only if installing a new BCM.

NOTE: A diagnostic scan tool should not be used to program keys for this specific step.



Place the first key in the ignition lock cylinder or the backup starting location.
Refer to: Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - System Operation and Component Description (419-01C Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - Vehicles With: Keyless Vehicle System, Description and Operation).

Turn the ignition lock cylinder to the RUN position or press the START/STOP button and wait approximately 6 seconds.

Turn the ignition lock cylinder to the OFF position or press the START/STOP button and remove the first key.

Place the second key in the ignition lock cylinder or the backup starting location.

Turn the ignition lock cylinder to the RUN position or press the START/STOP button.

Carry out the parameter reset.
Refer to: Anti-Theft Security Access and Key Programming - Scan Tool (419-01B Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS), General Procedures).
Refer to: Anti-Theft Security Access and Key Programming - Scan Tool (419-01C Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - Vehicles With: Keyless Vehicle System, General Procedures).

Using a diagnostic scan tool, complete the PMI process for the BCM following the on-screen instructions.

Using a diagnostic scan tool, carry out the Configuration Engine Immobilizer (CEI) configuration following the on-screen instructions (Toolbox > Body > Service Functions > CEI Lock Configuration).

Using a diagnostic scan tool, carry out the battery monitor sensor reset following the on-screen instructions (Toolbox > Body > BMS Reset).

NOTE: This step does not apply to vehicles equipped with 360 degree camera view.

If equipped with video rear parking aid, using a diagnostic scan tool, carry out the new module initialization following the on-screen instructions (Toolbox > Electrical > Service Functions > LIN New Module Initialization).

Configure the customer preference programmable parameters.
Refer to: Module Programming (418-01 Module Configuration, General Procedures).

Train the tire pressure sensors.
Refer to: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor Location Calibration (204-04B Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), General Procedures).

Carry out the BCM self-test (must include an on-demand self-test) and then repeat the self-test to confirm all DTC have been cleared.

If equipped with a PAM, using a diagnostic scan tool, complete the PMI process for the PAM following the on-screen instructions.

----------------------

If you have any questions, let me know...
 

anndel

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 28, 2015
Messages
3,270
Location
Hawaii, USA
This is a 2017 F250 and it needs a new BCM? Isn't the truck including the BCM under warranty?
 

GTA Matt

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 30, 2010
Messages
3,148
Location
Zebulon, NC
You need an LSID. You can either pay the $400 and do the background check, take it to someone with an LSID, or take it to the dealer for programming.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
 

pgilmore7

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 12, 2015
Messages
141
Location
Riverview Florida
You have to have a license to program modules or to do anything with IDS. I have a license and it’s still picky because I run windows off my MacBook Pro. If you do have a license, did you try using asbuilt data?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
 

wreckedcarz

New member
Joined
Feb 22, 2018
Messages
1
I am having a very similar problem with a 2015 F150 that was a flood vehicle.

I have replaced the BCM and using IDS it will not allow me to program keys to see if it will start. Looks like you must have an LSID log-in which requires an additional subscription plus a $1,000,000.00 bond.

Even though Ford markets the IDS subscription as being able to do key programming for 1996 to current and future models it clearly does not allow it. Seems like it stopped about the 2013 model year for most push to start vehicles and they are still marketing it 5 years later as doing it.

Does anybody have a workaround when keys are not in the BCM?
 
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