OEM 2008 Ford E-150 Engine Control Module

2008 Ford E-150 Engine Control Module Parts Q&A

• Q: What are the key features and considerations regarding the Engine Control Module (ECM) and its Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) on 2008 Ford E-150?

  A: Vehicle strategy and calibration information dedicated to each specific vehicle gets stored in the Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) component embedded into the powertrain control module (PCM). This EEPROM exists as part of the Engine Control Module (ECM) and enables programmers to flash or program the information multiple times. The Vehicle Identification (VID) block must be programmed at new PCM installation because failing to do so could trigger diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) PI635 or P1639. The VID block needs adjustment to show changes in vehicle parameters and hardware since production yet wrong VID modifications can trigger DTC P1635 which stems from tire/axle ratio mismatch. The VID block contains vital data points which include the vehicle identification number (VIN), octane adjust, fuel type, vehicle speed limit, tire size, axle ratio and speed control and 4-wheel drive configuration settings. The modification process of the VID block demands specific range compliance from certain items until the device prompts the PCM reflash requirement. The process to program VID block data during PCM exchange requires an automatic data transmission from operational old units or requires manual input when the old unit is nonfunctional. Automatic transfer enables a scan tool to collect data from the removed PCM before installation to send it to the new PCM after it is installed. A compatible scan tool must be used to enter tire size in revolutions per mile and axle ratio and 4x4/4x2 settings for the new PCM after installation because improper parameter programming can result in DTCs P1635 and P1639. If the old PCM becomes unusable or its data is corrupt then technicians must obtain needed information from the As-Built Data Center by contacting either the National Hotline or the Professional Technician Society (PTS) website based on whether they are Ford or Lincoln Mercury technicians or if they are non-Ford technicians they can use the Motorcraft® website. The VID block needs modification to fit vehicle components and complete EEPROM reprogramming can occur when adapting strategies or calibrations or resetting the VID block after its maximum threshold.