FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

VCM Replacement/Programming

NOTE: In order to prevent possible Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) damage to the VCM, do not touch the connector pins or soldered components on the circuit board.

IMPORTANT:
^ Service of the Vehicle Control Module (VCM) consists of either replacement of the VCM or reprogramming of the VCM.
^ If the VCM is being replaced, the Knock Sensor (KS) module must be transferred to the replacement VCM.
^ The replacement VCM must be programmed before the vehicle will run.
^ The replacement VCM must have the Passlock Reprogramming procedure performed before the vehicle will run.
^ The replacement VCM must have the CKP System Variation Learn procedure performed or a DTC P1336 will set.

A shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness will not damage the output driver module (ODM) in the VCM. A shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness will cause the circuit and the controlled component to be inoperative.

When the circuit fault is not present or the technician has repaired the fault, the output driver module (ODM) will again operate in a normal manner due to its fault protected design.

Removal Procedure

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Service Precautions.




1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the spring retainers off the edges of the VCM.
3. Slide the VCM out of the bracket at an angle.




4. Remove the connectors from the VCM.

IMPORTANT: The remaining steps are only necessary for a VCM replacement:




5. Remove the access cover fasteners.
6. Remove the knock sensor module access cover.

IMPORTANT: Since the knock sensor module will be used in the replacement VCM, place the knock sensor module in an area where the module will not be damaged.




7. Gently pinch the retaining clip.




8. Pull upward to remove the knock sensor module.

Installation Procedure

IMPORTANT: Ensure that the VCM being installed is the original VCM, or that the replacement VCM service number is identical to the original VCM service number.

NOTE: In order to prevent possible electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to the VCM, do not touch the connector pins or soldered components on the circuit board.

IMPORTANT: Steps 1-4 are only necessary for a replacement VCM installation:




1. Align the notches of the knock sensor module with the notches in the knock sensor module socket.

IMPORTANT: Press only on the ends of the knock sensor module. Gently press on the knock sensor module until the module is firmly seated in the socket. Listen for the click.

2. Install the knock sensor module in the socket.




3. Install the access cover on the VCM.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

4. Install the access cover screws.

Tighten
Tighten the screws to 5.0 N.m (44 lb in).




5. Install the connectors to the VCM.




6. Install the VCM in the engine compartment.
7. Install the retaining springs over the edges of the VCM.
8. Program the VCM. Programming and Relearning