Reprogramming PCM myself

[Sburn]

Originally Posted by Ke5fuj

P.S. If your response is to let the dealer do it cause you dont want to mess it up, just know that the dealer can't even program the PATS system without my help so i doubt they will be able to program the PCM on their own. Besides i'd rather get the experience. and i have tons of time now since i just lost my job. (another reason to save money)

If your dealer is kind enough to let you do this with their software and equipment (called VCM) at their facility, then you should be fine. You run through the software to the point where you are prompted to replace PCM module and then install the as-built calibration from Ford using your VIN onto the replacement module. Then you go into the PATS function to nix out anything on the replacment PCM and reprogram to your keys.

If you can't do this at the dealer using their system, you can still DIY, but it's not cheap. You buy the DIY/independant shop module programming software from (called FMP) Motorcraft Service:

http://bit.ly/b3a5XJ


Then you need a J2534 interface cable, which is what goes between your computer's USB port and the OBD port:

Mongoose


Between the FMP software and the J2534 device, you're going to be out $500, which might be enough to convince you to pay the dealer for a couple hours of their shop time.