Off-Board Programming

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2001 GMC Savana, 2001 Chevrolet RV Cutaway, 2001 Chevrolet Cutaway, and 2001 Chevrolet Chevy Express. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Before Programming a Control Module

NOTE: DO NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or you are directed by a General Motors Corporation service bulletin. Programming a control module at any other time will not permanently correct a customer's concern. Off-Board Programming is used in situations where a control module must be programmed without having vehicle present. Off-Board Programming Adapter must be used to perform Off-Board Programming procedure. Adapter allows PCM to power up and allows Tech 2® to communicate with PCM. DO NOT disturb tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during programming procedure, programming failure or PCM damage may occur.

Ensure all connections are secure.

Obtain VIN of vehicle for which PCM is being programmed.
Using Techline® terminal, select SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
Select Tech 2®, Reprogram ECU, and Off-Board Programming Adapter as electronic control unit (ECU) location.
Connect PCM, Off-Board Programming Adapter, and Tech 2® as described on Techline® terminal. Ensure you use correct harness connector from Off-Board Programming Adapter kit.
Using Tech 2®, select SERVICE PROGRAMMING REQUEST INFORMATION function. Tech 2® communicates with PCM and receives access code.
Using Tech 2®, exit SERVICE PROGRAMMING REQUEST INFORMATION.
Disconnect Tech 2® from Off-Board Programming Adapter.
Connect Tech 2® to Techline® terminal.
Turn Tech 2® on.
Using Techline® terminal, enter VIN of vehicle that will be receiving PCM.
Techline® terminal will display message, attaching to database.
Identify what type of programming you are performing.
Select appropriate calibration file.
Ensure all connections are secure.
Techline® terminal displays a summary screen that summarizes your selections. After confirming you choices, Techline® terminal automatically loads calibration files to Tech 2®.
After download is complete, turn Tech 2® off.
Disconnect Tech 2® from Techline® terminal.
Connect Tech 2® to Off-Board Programming Adapter.
Using Tech 2®, select SERVICE PROGRAMMING.

NOTE: DO NOT turn off Off-Board Programming Adapter if programming procedure is interrupted or unsuccessful. Ensure PCM and Off-Board Programming Adapter connections are secure and Techline® operating software is up to date. Attempt to reprogram PCM. If control module cannot be programmed, replace control module.

Using Tech 2®, select PROGRAM.
After download is complete, exit SERVICE PROGRAMMING.
Turn off Off-Board Programming Adapter.