Vehicle Identification (VID) Block

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If the PCM needs to have a powertrain calibration flash programmed, refer to SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - CNG, FLEX-FUEL & GASOLINE . Make sure to use the flash cable when programming calibrations or running a PMI routine on the PCM.

NOTE: When carrying out a PMI routine on any non-PCM module, use the OBDII cable.

NOTE: Flash programming powertrain calibrations onto the PCM is different than PMI. It has no effect on the backup data in the VID block memory area of the PCM.

The PCM contains a memory area called a vehicle identification (VID) block. A portion of the VID block is used to store the backup data for each programmable module on the vehicle.

The VID block is the first backup of information when using the PMI configuration method. If the diagnostic tool cannot retrieve option content information from the suspect module, the diagnostic tool will attempt to extract backup information from the VID block of the PCM.

The VID block is not related to or affected by the powertrain calibration information stored in the PCM. If a new powertrain calibration has been flashed onto the PCM, the VID block will not be affected.

If using the PMI routine to install a new PCM, the diagnostic tool will reprogram only VID information. The engine calibration information may still need to be flashed. For more information, refer to the SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - CNG, FLEX-FUEL & GASOLINE for flash programming information.