Principles of Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When installing a new instrument cluster, it is necessary to upload the module configuration information to the diagnostic tool. Following installation of the instrument cluster, download the module configuration information from the diagnostic tool into the new instrument cluster. For additional module configuration information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION . The following items are configurable:

gulf coast countries (GCC) destination
traction control
oil life threshold
oil minder off
powertrain control module (PCM) oil life used
engine idle hour meter
back up aid
air suspension

The standard and optional instrument clusters are configurable, hybrid electronic clusters (HEC) that contain a microprocessor, gauges, indicator lamps, and internal circuitry. The instrument cluster uses hardwired circuitry, the standard corporate protocol (SCP), and the controller area network (CAN) to transmit and receive data from other modules. For additional information regarding the communication networks, refer to MODULE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK . It is very important to understand:

where the input originates.
all the information necessary in order for a feature to operate.
which module(s) receive(s) the input or command message.
whether the module which received the input controls the output of the feature, or whether it outputs a message over the CAN or SCP communication networks circuits to another module.
which module controls the output of the feature.

The instrument cluster carries out a display prove-out to verify that the warning/indicator lamps and monitored systems are operating correctly. The safety belt warning indicator illuminates for 65 seconds +/- 1 second or until the safety belt is fastened. When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, the charging system warning indicator, the low oil pressure warning indicator, and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminate until the engine is started and operating normally. Each time the ignition key is turned from the OFF to the ON positions, the following instrument cluster warning indicators prove out for 3 seconds:

air bag (6 seconds on, 2 seconds off)
ABS
BRAKE
low fuel (if equipped)
air suspension (5 seconds) (if equipped)
fire suppression (5 seconds) (police only)
traction control
engine coolant over temperature
powertrain malfunction (wrench)
traction control active (if equipped)