Keep Alive Memory (KAM)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 25 other vehicles, including the 2013 Lincoln Navigator, 2013 Lincoln MKZ, 2013 Lincoln MKX, 2013 Lincoln MKT, and 2013 Lincoln MKS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The PCM stores information about vehicle operating conditions in the KAM (a memory integrated circuit chip) and then uses this information to compensate for component variability. The KAM remains powered when the ignition is in the OFF position so the information is not lost.