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Ford IDS Blank Module Programming Procedure

Step-by-step procedure to program a blank or used PCM module using Ford IDS, including how to rewrite the VIN with the tear tag method. Covers key discipline during identification, session file cleanup, and the FDRS limitation that prevents VIN rewrites on newer vehicles.

Overview - Ford IDS blank module / used module VIN rewrite

This guide walks through the complete Ford IDS procedure for programming a blank module or rewriting the VIN on a used module. The procedure uses the tear tag from motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt and works only on Ford and Lincoln vehicles that use IDS it does NOT work on FDRS vehicles (see the warning below before sourcing a used module).

The most common reasons this procedure fails are turning the ignition key ON too early during vehicle identification, skipping the session file cleanup step, or running an older IDS version. Follow each step in order and pay close attention to the key discipline notes.

Step-by-step procedure

Complete the steps below in order. Skipping a step particularly the session file cleanup or the key-off discipline during identification will cause IDS to default to a standard programming flow that does not write the VIN to a blank or used module.

Step 1 -  Retrieve the tear tag from Motorcraft

Go to motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt and enter the VIN. The tear tag is displayed at the top of the page. Write it down before proceeding  you will need it in Step 5.

Step 2 - Verify your IDS version

On the laptop, confirm you are running IDS version 132.05 or later. Older IDS versions may not support the tear tag screen or the VIN rewrite flow. If you are running an older version, update IDS before continuing.

Step 3 - Clear old session files

Navigate to: C:\ProgramData\Ford Motor Company\Sessions

Press Ctrl + A to select all files, then delete them all. Deleting all files in the Sessions folder before starting prevents leftover data from conflicting with the new module programming process. This is one of the most commonly skipped steps and a frequent cause of failed VIN rewrites.

Step 4 - Start a new session with the key OFF

Keep the ignition key OFF. Start a new session in IDS and select "All Other" as the vehicle type. Continue pressing the green checkmark through each screen. The key must remain OFF throughout this step.

Step 5 - Enter the tear tag and identify the vehicle

When the "Enter Tear Tag" page appears, type in the tear tag number you wrote down in Step 1. Allow the vehicle to fully identify the ignition key must remain OFF throughout this step.

Turning the key on too early will cause IDS to skip the tear tag screen and default to a standard programming flow, which will not work for a blank module. If this happens, clear the session files again (Step 3) and restart from Step 4.

Step 6 - Turn the key ON and program the PCM

Once the vehicle is fully identified, turn the ignition key ON. Follow the on-screen prompts for the PCM programming procedure. When prompted, enter the VIN number this writes the VIN to the used module.

Entering the VIN during the PCM programming step is the only method to rewrite the VIN on a used module. This process only works via IDS.

Warning - FDRS vehicles cannot have the VIN rewritten

Vehicles using FDRS (Ford Diagnostic and Repair System) cannot have the VIN changed on an existing module. A brand new module is required for all FDRS vehicles. Confirm which system the vehicle uses before sourcing a used module — if the vehicle is on the FDRS list, do not purchase a used PCM expecting to rewrite the VIN. See our guide "What software do I use for my Ford or Lincoln vehicle?" for the FDRS vehicle list.

Quick reference checklist

Before starting the procedure, confirm:

- Tear tag written down from motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt.
- IDS version confirmed at 132.05 or later.
- Session files deleted from C:\ProgramData\Ford Motor Company\Sessions.
- Ignition key kept OFF during vehicle identification.
- New session started with "All Other" selected.
- Tear tag entered on the correct screen.
- Key turned ON only after vehicle is fully identified.
- VIN entered when prompted during PCM programming.
- Confirmed vehicle uses IDS, not FDRS.

Contact AE Solutions for support

For additional help with Ford IDS blank module programming, used module VIN rewrites, or FDRS vs IDS questions, contact AE Solutions:

- Phone: 913-856-6678
- Website: https://aesolutions.us - Submit a support ticket online