Principles of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The instrument cluster, front electronic module (FEM), and the rear electronic module (REM) must be reconfigured upon replacement. See MODULE CONFIGURATION .

NOTE: The diagnostic tool may display ICM for the instrument cluster.

NOTE: For any concerns with the restraint control module (RCM), see AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS .

The instrument cluster is a hybrid electronic instrument cluster (HEC). The vehicle electronic functions are divided into zones. The instrument cluster, FEM, and REM use the standard corporate protocol (SCP) communication network to transmit and receive information. As a technician, it is very important to understand:

Where the input (command) originates from.
All information (messages) necessary in order for a feature to operate.
Which module(s) receive(s) the input or command message.
Does the module which received the input (message), control the output of the feature, or does it output a message over the SCP communication network to another module.
Which module controls the output of the feature.
The instrument cluster communicates with the FEM, REM, anti-lock brake system/traction control/interactive vehicle dynamics (ABS/TC/IVD), powertrain control module (PCM), steering column lock (SCL), message center (MC) module, and the restraint control module (RCM) over the SCP to control the gauges, indicators, and chimes.