What software do I use for my Ford or Lincoln vehicle?
Guide to choosing between FDRS, FJDS, and IDS for Ford and Lincoln vehicles based on year, model, and whether you are using a J2534 device or an OEM Ford diagnostic interface like the VCM2 or VCM3.
Not sure which Ford diagnostic software to use for your Ford or Lincoln vehicle? The right Ford software — FDRS, FJDS, or IDS depends on the vehicle's year and model, and on the diagnostic interface you are using. This guide walks you through how to choose between Ford FDRS, Ford FJDS, and Ford IDS based on your hardware and your vehicle.
How to choose the right Ford software
The Ford diagnostic software you use for Ford and Lincoln vehicles depends on two factors: the diagnostic interface you are using (a J2534 pass-thru device or an OEM Ford interface), and the year, make, and model of the vehicle being serviced.
For 2017 and older Ford or Lincoln vehicles using a J2534 pass-thru device such as the AEZ Flasher 3, use Ford FJDS (Ford J2534 Diagnostic Software).
For 2017 and older Ford or Lincoln vehicles using the OEM Ford diagnostic interface (VCM2 or VCM3), use Ford IDS (Integrated Diagnostic Software).
For the newer Ford and Lincoln vehicles listed below, use Ford FDRS (Ford Diagnosis and Repair System) regardless of whether you are using a J2534 device like the AEZ Flasher 3 or an OEM Ford interface like the VCM2 or VCM3.
Ford and Lincoln vehicles supported by FDRS
The Ford and Lincoln vehicles listed below require Ford FDRS no matter which diagnostic interface you are using. FDRS is required for these vehicles whether you are using a J2534 device or an OEM VCM2 or VCM3:
- 2018 and newer Expedition and Navigator
- 2018 and newer EcoSport
- 2019 and newer Ranger
- 2019 and newer Transit Connect
- 2020 and newer Transit
- 2020 and newer Explorer and Aviator
- 2020 and newer Super Duty
- 2020 and newer Escape and Corsair
- 2021 and newer Bronco and Bronco Sport
- 2021 and newer F-150
- 2021 and newer Edge and Nautilus
- 2021 and newer Mustang
- 2021 and newer Mustang Mach-E
Ford and Lincoln vehicles supported by IDS or FJDS
All other Ford and Lincoln vehicles not listed in the FDRS section above are supported by Ford IDS or Ford FJDS. Which one you use depends on your diagnostic interface:
Use Ford IDS if you are using the OEM Ford VCM2 or VCM3 diagnostic interface.
Use Ford FJDS if you are using a J2534 pass-thru device such as the AEZ Flasher 3.
For complete setup and usage instructions for FJDS with the AEZ Flasher 3, see our Ford FJDS Setup and Usage Guide.
Important notes about Ford diagnostic software
All three Ford diagnostic programs (FDRS, FJDS, and Ford IDS) require an active Ford Diagnostic Software subscription through Motorcraft Service. The same Motorcraft Service subscription covers all three Ford diagnostic platforms.
If you cannot log in to your Ford diagnostic software, or you are seeing Error Code 0, see our dedicated articles on Ford FDRS login issues and Ford Diagnostic Software subscription renewal the same login and subscription troubleshooting steps apply to FDRS, FJDS, and Ford IDS.
If you need help choosing the right Ford or Lincoln diagnostic software, configuring a VCM2, VCM3, or J2534 device like the AEZ Flasher 3, or activating your Ford Diagnostic Software subscription, contact AE Tools at https://aetools.us or call us directly.