Dealership programmers

[stangcbr]

I looked around on this site and couldn't find much on programmers, specifiically whatever ford or mecury use at the dealership to change firmware on the ECUs. Do consumers have the ability to buy a connector and some software to then be able to make upgrades to firmware on the cars? I need to get a couple firmware upgrades related to a couple TSBs on my transmission and would rather put that money towards me being able to upload updates myself. Thanks!

 

[Gus Gorilla]

If your looking for a dealership level tool your going to shell out around $5K through Rotunda (Ford tool supplier) for the computer, connections, and software. There are some on E-bay now for $2K-$3K. It's called IDS (Interactive Diagnostic Software) and you need the VCM (Vehicle Communication Module...? I think) which is the cable set and another small box. If you already had a laptop (non-apple) then you could get a VCM cable set and the IDS software and load it up. No idea what this costs but again, check E-bay.
It is all available to the general public but the cost is restrictive for most.

 

[stangcbr]

Thanks for the quick and complete answer! I looked on Ebay and saw what you were talking about. You are right, out of most peoples purchase ability. I at least know what to ask for when calling around to local shops, although I will probably end up at the dealer for the programming.