Hotspot issue - XLT '20 APIM install into '17 XLT

[Adamdavis25]

Hey all,

Hoping someone here may have the solution to the problem I am having.

I purchased and installed a Navi APIM from an early build 20’ Explorer into my 2017 XLT with Navi. Once installed I loaded my Asbuilt data from my old module into the new one. At the same time I finished my retrofit of a hot spot enabled TCU. I am using Ford PIFA’s for both connected car and hotspot they are connected using OEM cables. My issue is not being able to enable hot spot in settings. The FordPass tile is showing up, I can tap the hot spot menu under the FP tile but when I do I get a pop up that says “Vehicle Hotspot feature is not enabled in this vehicle” I’ve reviewed the APIM asbuilt data consulted with another DIY’er from the F-150 forums, we have made changes in hex for blocks 7D0-02-02 and 7D0-02-03 and we can’t seem to get the hotspot functionally to work.

Any suggestions? I’m sure I forgot to include some info y’ all may need, be happy to provide just let me know.

 

[mmorey79]

Are you sure the TCU has a firmware version that is compatible with the APIM? This has a pretty complete how to, you may have already done most of this stuff and a couple items you'll need to research the correct blocks for an explorer as the BCM may be different: https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct...cWGm5WQg.pdf&usg=AOvVaw1cDSjXuE8mO3ze8FfCu7Ah

 

[Adamdavis25]

Thanks mmorey,

I do have that document and have actually been conversing with F150Chief on the Cyanlabs forum about this as well (he provided the same info over there). The TCU firmware does need updated, but I am hesitant to use forscan 2.4.6 beta as the OP from FS dev team in the FS forums states it’s not safe. I am confident in my skills to flash updated Firmware, I just want to be certain the software and Pc interface cable is up to the task and I don’t end up with a bricked TCU. I am also having F150Chief confirm that the TBM hex value that is current set in the BCM is the correct value its’s currently 0=absent

 

[mmorey79]

Thanks mmorey,

I do have that document and have actually been conversing with F150Chief on the Cyanlabs forum about this as well (he provided the same info over there). The TCU firmware does need updated, but I am hesitant to use forscan 2.4.6 beta as the OP from FS dev team in the FS forums states it’s not safe. I am confident in my skills to flash updated Firmware, I just want to be certain the software and Pc interface cable is up to the task and I don’t end up with a bricked TCU. I am also having F150Chief confirm that the TBM hex value that is current set in the BCM is the correct value its’s currently 0=absent

Kinda figured as advanced as this mod is you probably had it pretty well handled. TBH other than the IPC most modules seem pretty resilient as long as you follow the "rules" of using Forscan to update modules. Good battery charger, good laptop charger, good cable with proper settings etc. I haven't done a TCU but I've done about every other module and even bricked and recovered a BCM. Assuming the TCU is anything like the BCM as long as you have a saved "profile" with it in it, you can continue attempting to flash it. The BCM at least has a low level "bootloader" type interface that will listen for and accept flashes after a reset. I was rather distraught when my wife's fusion had no electrical functionality at all, but a couple hours later it was fixed and had the latest BCM firmware.

 

[Adamdavis25]

Kinda figured as advanced as this mod is you probably had it pretty well handled. TBH other than the IPC most modules seem pretty resilient as long as you follow the "rules" of using Forscan to update modules. Good battery charger, good laptop charger, good cable with proper settings etc. I haven't done a TCU but I've done about every other module and even bricked and recovered a BCM. Assuming the TCU is anything like the BCM as long as you have a saved "profile" with it in it, you can continue attempting to flash it. The BCM at least has a low level "bootloader" type interface that will listen for and accept flashes after a reset. I was rather distraught when my wife's fusion had no electrical functionality at all, but a couple hours later it was fixed and had the latest BCM firmware.

Ahh lol I couldn’t imagine having to tell the wife that I was working on one of the modules something happened and it’s currently without power.

So if I understand correctly, you have used the 2.4.6 beta version of FS and haven’t had any issues with a corrupt firmware flash?

Was reading over preparing equipment thread for the flash and there is no mention of being able to flash firmware with the engine running (so the alternator is providing power for onboard systems). So looks like accessory power on engine off and hooked up to a battery charger is the method for successful firmware flash