Keypad Code Printed on PCM not Valid

[Geologist]

Owing to the fact that my 03 EB was a complete lemon, I just bought an 04 EB to replace it.

I had to pull the keyless entry pad code off of the computer module (in the passenger rear door side panel). It is the ONLY 5 digit code on the whole module, so unless there is something I don't know about it has to be the correct one, am I right?

Problem is, the truck rejects the code (keypad blinks for one minute after plugging this code in to many times).

I pulled the module out and looked it over twice, I definitely have it written down correctly and it is definitely the only 5 digit code on the label (it is all by itself and is the largest numbers on the box).

Short of taking this thing in and having it read, or whatever they do, is there any other way to get this code out of the module?

Also is there some kind of mod that may have been done to change the factory code?

I did notice an aftermarket upgrade to the factory security system, but it appears to be a Basic Key Type Starter Disable Module only.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Geologist]

OK so a little research revealed that the module is actually called the Vehicle Security Module (VSM), but that doesn't really change anything for my issue.

I am now wondering if I can put my 03 module in my 04 since I know the codes for that one. Does anyone know if they are swappable like that? I have not been able to find any information on this subject via Bing, Google etc.

It is stated on a number of sites that the factory code cannot be changed. However, I used to use an EPROM flash unit to reprogram the BIOS chip on various PC motherboards that were said to be "unrecoverable" so I have doubts that it is impossible to reprogram the factory code with the right equipment. Any thoughts?

 

[BigRondo]

As far as I know, a different module will have to be programmed by the dealer to work with your Ex.

Good luck getting it sorted.

 

[Geologist]

Thanks BigRondo.

I had a feeling it would need to be reprogrammed.

I took my 04 into my local dealer today and they only charge $50 to pull the code from the current module. Well worth it to save the time and trouble so I told them just do it.

He initially tried pulling the factory code from their VIN cross reference, and to his surprise that code was not valid either. Only way is to have it hooked up to their computer and have it read.

 

[BigRondo]

You're welcome. Glad you got it sorted.

 

[Geologist]

My appointment was actually for today, they pulled the code via their computer and it is the same as the code I read off the side of the module. The tech that handed it back off to me said the keypad was probably faulty.

So I swapped the keypad out with my 03 Eddie when I got home (thanks to BigRondo for the how to on removing it in Welli's sticky by the way) and it still does not accept the code. I even traded out the wiring harness inside the door panel with no luck. The alleged bad keypad works perfectly in the 03.

Next I cleaned the contacts and pulled the neg terminal off the battery for 30 minutes, and visually inspected the wiring harness all the way out the door, it all looks good.

I am starting to think the VSM is actually bad but I am open to suggestions.

 

[BigRondo]

My appointment was actually for today, they pulled the code via their computer and it is the same as the code I read off the side of the module. The tech that handed it back off to me said the keypad was probably faulty.

So I swapped the keypad out with my 03 Eddie when I got home (thanks to BigRondo for the how to on removing it in Welli's sticky by the way) and it still does not accept the code. I even traded out the wiring harness inside the door panel with no luck. The alleged bad keypad works perfectly in the 03.

Next I cleaned the contacts and pulled the neg terminal off the battery for 30 minutes, and visually inspected the wiring harness all the way out the door, it all looks good.

I am starting to think the VSM is actually bad but I am open to suggestions.

I'll check my shop manuals for any info on troubleshooting the keypad and pass along what I find.



In the meantime:

I can't believe that I haven't mentioned a broken/damaged wire(s) in the boot:

I had similar electrical issues with my '02 XLT. The dome lights would stay on until the battery saver feature turned them off, the accessory delay wasn't working, the driver side puddle light didn't work, when the alarm was armed the keypad on the door would set off the alarm when I pressed it, the door ajar light would flash and beep at highway speeds, the radio would shut off as soon as I turned the key off, the alarm would beep twice when I armed it. Recently all 4 windows stopped working. Most recently the driver door lock actuator stopped working.

A lot of electrical issues can be traced back to broken/damaged wire(s) in the boot between the body and the driver's door. I found 3 broken wires and repaired them. The thin black ground wire was broken and after repairing it all was back to normal. When the windows stopped working, I repaired the thick black ground wire and the windows now work like a champ. I had to repair the pink/black wire to fix the driver door lock actuator.

Here is the thread for removing the door panel: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=303524

Here is a great thread for checking for broken/damaged wires, thanks to synyster for this awesome write-up: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums//showthread.php?t=270081

Be sure to take your time when looking for broken/damaged wire(s). Check all the wires for breaks/damage. When you think you're done looking, look again, and again, and again. A bright flashlight can be very helpful.

EDIT: I can send you the troubleshooting steps for the keypad from my Shop Manuals upon request!

 

[Geologist]

I was just about to go back out and re-open the door panel anyways, so I will inspect the wires at the door boot thoroughly again.

Another thought came to mind though. The PCM was last upgraded in 2006. Is there any possibility that a newer revision might cure this problem as well? I am considering it as it does like to surge at idle, but if the PCM is possibly bad I would hate to drop the money to flash a bad PCM...

 

[BigRondo]

I was just about to go back out and re-open the door panel anyways, so I will inspect the wires at the door boot thoroughly again.

Another thought came to mind though. The PCM was last upgraded in 2006. Is there any possibility that a newer revision might cure this problem as well? I am considering it as it does like to surge at idle, but if the PCM is possibly bad I would hate to drop the money to flash a bad PCM...

I believe the troubleshooting steps from the shop manuals will be able to determine if the PCM is bad or not.

I'll see about sending the info tonight when I get home if I can work it around the game!!

 

[BigRondo]

Check you PM. I have sent some good info.