Parameter Identification (PID): Description

The parameter identification (PID) mode allows access to powertrain control module (PCM) information. This includes analog and digital signal inputs and outputs along with calculated values and the system status. There are two types of PID lists available and both are used throughout this article. The first is the generic (J1979) on board diagnostic (OBD) PID list. This is a standard set of PIDs that all scan tools must be able to access. The second is a Ford specific (J2190) PID list which can be accessed by an appropriate scan tool. When accessing any of these PIDs, they are continuously updated. The Generic or Ford PID list provides definitions and values in appropriate units.