System Operation
System Diagram
Network Message Chart
A missing network message is indicated by a U-code DTC
and can be the result of intermittent concerns such as damaged wiring
or low battery voltage occurrences. Additionally, vehicle repair
procedures such as module reprogramming can set these Diagnostic Trouble
Codes (DTCs). When a missing message DTC
(U-code) sets, it is important to look for symptoms present in the
audio system and throughout the vehicle, and to review the complete
message list to determine which other modules rely on the same message.
Refer to: Communications Network (418-00 Module Communications Network, Diagnosis and Testing).
See CAN Multiplex Messages.
When the other modules have been identified, run the self-test for those modules. If the same message is missing from those modules, the identical, or similar lost communication Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) may be set in those modules. Confirmation of missing messages common to multiple modules can indicate that the originating module is the source of the concern, or that the communication network may be at fault.
It is very important to understand the following:
Module Network Input Messages - ACM
Broadcast Message | Originating Module | Message Purpose |
---|---|---|
Belt-Minder® audio mute | IPC | Used to mute speaker output so the Belt-Minder® tone can be more easily heard. This message only applies to vehicles with a MyKey® enabled and in use. The audio system is muted until the safety belt(s) are buckled. |
Chime request | IPC | Used to mute the audio system so a chime from the IPC can be more easily heard. |
Day/night status | IPC | Used to adjust the AM radio reception sensitivity. |
FCIM set volume | FCIM | Used to set the ACM volume from the FCIM . |
Gear lever position | IPC | Used to verify the gear selector position for bezel diagnostics. |
Ignition key type | IPC | Used to determine if a MyKey® is enabled and in use. |
Ignition status | IPC | Used to indicate the ignition state (OFF, ACCESSORY, RUN, and START) required for ACM operating modes and fault reporting. |
MyKey® volume limit status mode | IPC | Used to limit the maximum audio system volume when a MyKey® restricted key is in use. |
Radio preset requests | APIM | Used to select and store radio station presets from the FDIM . |
SYNC® alerts | APIM | Used for text message, news, sports, weather, satellite radio artist/title favorites (if activated), and traffic alert notifications. |
Transport mode | IPC | Used to disable the functionality of the ACM until taken out of transport mode. |
Vehicle speed | PCM | Used for the speed compensated volume function. |
Module Network Input Messages - APIM
Broadcast Message | Originating Module | Message Purpose |
---|---|---|
911 Assist™ override status | IPC | Used to enable or disable the “Always on” 911 Assist™ MyKey® feature as selected through the IPC while using an administrator MyKey®. |
ACM configuration | ACM | Used to verify that the correct configuration and modules are installed. |
Airbag deployment status | RCM | Used to monitor airbag deployment status for 911 Assist™. |
Audio source status | ACM | Used to display the selected audio source on the FDIM . |
Audio volume status | ACM | Used to display audio volume status on the FDIM . |
CD load/eject | ACM | Used to display the loaded or ejected CD status on the FDIM . |
Date and time settings | IPC | Used to display the current date and time on the FDIM . |
Do Not Disturb override status | IPC | Used to enable or disable the “Always on” Do Not Disturb MyKey® feature as selected through the IPC while using an administrator MyKey®. |
eCall notification | RCM | Used to notify of a 911 Assist™ call being initiated due to an airbag deployment. |
FCIM bezel diagnostic status | FCIM | Used to display the FCIM bezel diagnostics operations in the centerstack infotainment display. |
FCIM button state | FCIM | Used to indicate when a button is pressed on the FCIM so the audio system can make the desired setting change. |
Gear lever position | IPC | Used to verify the gear selector position for bezel diagnostics. |
Ignition key type | IPC | Used to determine if a MyKey® is enabled and in use. |
Ignition status | IPC | Used to indicate the ignition state (OFF, ACCESSORY, RUN, and START) required for APIM operating modes and fault reporting. |
Illumination dimming level | BCM | Used to control the backlight intensity of the FDIM based on the dimmer switch input. |
Media center display units | IPC | Used to display trip, time, and temperature information in the preferred measurement units. |
Transport mode | IPC | Used to disable the functionality of the APIM until taken out of transport mode. |
Vehicle speed | IPC | Used for navigation functionality. |
Module Network Input Messages - FCIM
Broadcast Message | Originating Module | Message Purpose |
---|---|---|
Ignition status | IPC | Used to indicate the ignition state (OFF, ACCESSORY, RUN, and START) required for FCIM operating modes and fault reporting. |
Illumination dimming level | BCM | Used to control the backlight intensity of the FCIM based on the dimmer switch input. |
Transport mode | IPC | Used to disable the functionality of the FCIM until taken out of transport mode. |
Module Network Input Messages - IPC
Broadcast Message | Originating Module | Message Purpose |
---|---|---|
eCall confirmation | APIM | Used to confirm the configuration of the 911 Assist™ feature, and to confirm the status of the 911 Assist™ phone call. |
Module Network Input Messages - RCM
Broadcast Message | Originating Module | Message Purpose |
---|---|---|
eCall confirmation | APIM | Used to confirm the configuration of the 911 Assist™ feature, and to confirm the status of the 911 Assist™ phone call. |
Accessory Delay Feature
The accessory delay feature is a BCM -controlled software function that allows the audio system to be operated for a preset period of time after the ignition is turned off and a front door has not been opened.
AM / FM Radio
The AM / FM roof-mounted antenna receives analog radio waves and sends them through the AM / FM antenna coaxial cable to the ACM . The radio waves are converted into fluctuating AC voltage and sent as left and right analog audio signals to the speakers.
APIM Programming
The APIM
requires specific programming procedures for correct operation when it
is replaced, when upgrades are available and requested, or when
directed by a TSB, FSA , SSM , or Electronic Field Communication (EFC)
to resolve SYNC® performance concerns. For more information,
Refer to: SYNC Module [APIM] Programming
(415-00B Information and Entertainment System - General Information -
Vehicles With: AM/FM/CD/SYNC/Touchscreen Display, General Procedures).
Audio Extended Play
This software feature allows the audio system to operate with the ignition OFF, regardless of door latch position. When the power button on the FCIM is pressed, audio system functionality is enabled and remains active for a period of 20-60 minutes, depending on configuration settings. Audio extended play will not function if the battery load shed is active. To turn the audio system off, press the FCIM power button.
Battery Load Shed - ST Only
The BCM uses the battery current sensor to monitor the battery state of charge. The battery current sensor is attached to the battery ground cable. With the ignition in RUN, ACC, or OFF, a load shed message is sent over the CAN when the BCM determines that the battery state of charge is below 40%, 45 minutes have elapsed, or 10% of the charge has been drained. This message turns off the audio system to save the remaining battery charge. Under this condition, "Battery Saver - System Off" is displayed on the FDIM to notify the driver that battery protection actions are active. To clear the load shed state, start the vehicle.
Bluetooth Mode
Bluetooth is a secure, short-range radio frequency that allows devices to communicate wirelessly through radio waves. The operating range of a Bluetooth signal is application specific, but will have a minimum range of 10 meters (33 feet).
The APIM Bluetooth chipset supports multiple Bluetooth profiles, allowing the SYNC® system to interact with both Bluetooth-enabled phones and Bluetooth-enabled media devices.
Any Bluetooth-enabled device used with the SYNC® system must first be paired with the APIM Bluetooth chipset before it can become operational. Pairing a Bluetooth-enabled device is accomplished through the "Add Device" selection of the phone menu. When pairing a device, the SYNC® system generates a unique PIN that must be confirmed on the Bluetooth-enabled device in order for the pairing process to be successful. There are also some device-specific actions that must take place. For information on the pairing process, refer to the Owner's Literature.
Multiple Bluetooth-enabled phones and Bluetooth-enabled media devices can be paired to the APIM at the same time. The APIM supports an active connection with one Bluetooth-enabled phone and one Bluetooth-enabled media device at a time. If an additional device of either type is paired and made active, the APIM ends any active connection with an already-paired device, and establishes an active connection with the new device.
It is important to understand that while most Bluetooth-enabled devices can pair with the SYNC® system, not all Bluetooth-enabled devices have the same level of available features when interacting with the SYNC® system. To determine if a Bluetooth-enabled device or feature is supported, review the device compatibility list. Refer to: owner.ford.com/how-tos/sync-technology/all/phone-setup/how-your-device-works-with-sync.html or es.owner.ford.com/how-tos/sync-technology/all/phone-setup/how-your-device-works-with-sync.html
For more information, refer to “Bluetooth” in the Owner's Literature.
Compass
The GPS antenna integral to the AM / FM /satellite radio antenna is used to acquire the compass heading. The compass heading is sent through the satellite radio/ GPS coaxial cable, satellite radio/ GPS splitter, and GPS coaxial cable to the APIM . The APIM uses this data in addition to wheel speed and wheel rotation direction CAN messages from the ABS module to calculate and provide accurate vehicle tracking. The APIM processes the data and transmits it though the LVDS cable to be displayed on the FDIM . In the event that the GPS fix or signal is temporarily lost, the APIM will continue to use the CAN messages from the ABS module as well as information from the internal gyroscope and accelerometer to provide accurate vehicle tracking.
HD Radio® - If Equipped
HD Radio® is a subscription-free service.
HD Radio® technology allows an AM or FM radio station to duplicate their traditional analog channel with a matching digital channel. Some FM radio stations subdivide the digital output signal into multiple channels that are not duplicates of the analog channel. These extra multicast channels vary in availability and are called HD2, HD3 and HD4 channels.
The AM / FM roof-mounted antenna receives radio waves containing metadata (information such as station call letters, artist, album title, song title, and genre) and digital HD Radio® audio. The radio waves are sent through the AM / FM antenna coaxial cable to the HD Radio® receiver built into the ACM . The metadata is separated from the audio. The metadata is sent to be displayed on the FDIM , and the audio is converted into fluctuating AC voltage and sent as left and right analog audio signals to the speakers.
For more information, refer to “HD Radio” in the Owner's Literature.
MyKey® Audio Operation
For more information, refer to “MyKey®” in the Owner's Literature.
Navigation - If Equipped
The navigation system guides the customer to a pre-entered destination.
The navigation display is shown on the FDIM .
Map data is stored in the APIM . The GPS antenna integral to the AM / FM /satellite radio antenna receives GPS data and sends it through the satellite radio/ GPS coaxial cable, satellite radio/ GPS splitter, and GPS coaxial cable to the APIM . The APIM uses this data in addition to wheel speed and wheel rotation direction CAN messages from the ABS module to calculate route information and provide accurate navigation tracking. The APIM processes the data and transmits it though the LVDS cable to be displayed on the FDIM . In the event that the GPS fix or signal is temporarily lost, the APIM will continue to use the CAN messages from the ABS module as well as information from the internal gyroscope and accelerometer to provide accurate vehicle tracking.
The voice recognition system allows the customer to interface with the system without using the FDIM . A microphone located in the headliner provides a direct input to the APIM .
For more information, refer to “Navigation” in the Owner's Literature.
RDS
RDS allows metadata (information such as station call letters, artist, song title, and genre) to be contained within FM radio waves. If the RDS feature is turned on, a PTY (Program Type) can be chosen. Once the customer has chosen a single PTY such as Sports, Rock, Religious Music, or Weather, the SEEK or SCAN button is pressed, and the ACM only tunes channels within the selected category. If a channel within the selected category is not found, the ACM will continually seek or scan.
Satellite Radio
Satellite radio is a subscription-based service. When a satellite radio subscription is activated, the ESN of the satellite radio receiver built into the ACM is associated with the VIN . The SIRIUS 12-digit ESN can be obtained by tuning to channel 0, accessing AHU Part Numbers in Bezel Diagnostics, or by referencing the label attached to the ACM .
The roof-mounted combination AM / FM /satellite radio antenna receives signals containing metadata (information such as station name, artist, album title, song title, and genre) and digital satellite radio audio. These signals are sent through the satellite radio antenna coaxial cable to the satellite radio receiver built into the ACM . The metadata is separated from the audio. The metadata is sent to be displayed on the FDIM , and the audio is converted into fluctuating AC voltage and sent as left and right analog audio signals to the speakers.
SD Card Mode
When a non-navigation SD card is connected to the vehicle audio system through the SD card slot, audio from the card can be played through the vehicle speakers. Functions such as volume, seek, fast forward, pause, etc. can be controlled by the vehicle audio controls.
Image files can be saved to the APIM from a non-navigation SD card in order to be used as wallpaper backgrounds displayed on the FDIM .
SIRIUS Travel Link - If Equipped With Navigation
SIRIUS Travel Link is a subscription-based service, and requires a separate subscription from the satellite radio. When a SIRIUS Travel Link subscription is activated, the ESN of the satellite radio receiver built into the ACM is associated with the VIN and registered in the SIRIUS database. The SIRIUS 12-digit ESN can be obtained by tuning to channel 0, accessing “AHU Part Numbers” in Bezel Diagnostics, or by referencing the label attached to the ACM .
SIRIUS Travel Link allows the customer to receive information for:
The SIRIUS Travel Link feature requires the use of an APIM equipped with navigation.
The satellite radio antenna receives digital signals containing Travel Link data. The time intervals that the antenna receives the signals for each Travel Link category to update the data vary depending on the category. These signals are sent through the satellite radio antenna coaxial cable to the satellite radio receiver built into the ACM . The satellite receiver decrypts the data and the ACM sends it to the APIM through the SDL circuits. The APIM processes the data (together with GPS data for date-dependent features, such as sports schedules and scores, movie times, and the 5-day weather forecast, that require the use of GPS data for accuracy) and sends it to the FDIM to be displayed.
For more information, refer to “Sirius Travel Link” in the Owner's Literature.
Speed Compensated Volume
The ACM compensates for wind and road noise by adjusting the audio system volume based on the VSS signal and customer-defined setting.
When a MyKey® is in use and the MyKey® Volume Limiter is enabled, the speed compensated volume is disabled.
Steering Wheel Switch Functions
The LH 5-way steering wheel switch operates the volume +/-, seek +/-, voice, send/receive call, and end call functions.
SYNC® AppLink™
SYNC® AppLink™ allows Applications installed on the customer’s device to be controlled using the steering wheel switches, FCIM, and/or FDIM .
All devices must be paired with the SYNC® system via Bluetooth, and Apple® devices must also be connected to USB port.
Data is transmitted back and forth between the customer’s device and the APIM through Bluetooth, or through the USB port with Apple® devices.
For more information, refer to “AppLink” in the Owner's Literature.
SYNC® System
The SYNC® system uses Bluetooth, USB , FDIM , GPS, microphone, and CAN message APIM inputs to control the entertainment system, phone, climate control system, ambient lighting system, and navigation system (if equipped).
The SYNC® system provides the following abilities:
All SYNC® system features are not available with every phone/device. To determine if the APIM supports a particular phone, tablet, or media player, or feature of one of those devices, review the device compatibility list. Refer to owner.ford.com/how-tos/sync-technology/all/phone-setup/phones-compatible-with-sync.html#?syncGen=sync3=us.
The customer can update the CIP by using a USB flash drive or a Wi-Fi connection not requiring a browser sign in or two-step security validation. The update is approximately 600 MB.
Once the update download and installation is complete, an ignition cycle must occur before the update becomes active. For more information, refer to “Updating Your System” in the Owner's Literature.
For more information on the SYNC® system, refer to “SYNC” in the Owner's Literature.
USB Mode
When a portable media device, such as an iPod® with its available cable or portable mass storage such as a USB flash drive, is connected to the vehicle audio system through the USB ports, audio from the device can be played through the vehicle speakers. Functions such as volume, seek, fast forward, pause, etc. can be controlled with the vehicle’s audio controls.
When playing media files stored on a mass storage device such as a USB flash drive, the SYNC® system only plays supported file types that do not have DRM protection, and are contained on a properly formatted device. For more information, refer to “Supported Media Players, Formats and Metadata Information” in the Owner's Literature.
In addition to audio information (track length, track number, etc.), metadata (information such as artist, album title, song title, and genre) may also be sent to the APIM from a device connected to the USB ports. The APIM uses the metadata to create indexes that can be used to sort for particular music based on the customer’s preferences. Not all USB devices can send metadata to the APIM . When a new media device is connected to the SYNC® system, the APIM automatically indexes the information. This may take several minutes depending on the amount of data on the device, and is considered normal operation. When a device that was previously connected to the SYNC® system is reconnected, the APIM updates the index rather than creating a new one. This reduces the time needed to index the device.
Voice Recognition
Voice recognition allows certain phone, navigation system (if equipped), audio system, and climate control system functions to be controlled with voice commands to reduce or eliminate the need to interact with the FCIM, FDIM , and/or device while driving.
When the voice steering wheel switch is pressed, an audible prompt originating from the APIM is heard from the speakers. Based on the customer’s setting, audible prompts will either be a voice or a simple tone. When interaction mode is set to standard, detailed voice guidance is provided. When interaction mode is set to advanced, most prompts are tones only, and minimal voice guidance is provided. The microphone receives the voice commands and sends them to the APIM . For more information, refer to “voice recognition” in the Owner's Literature.
Component Description
ACM
The ACM can be operated with the ignition in RUN, ACC, or OFF.
The ACM receives radio waves containing audio from the antenna coaxial cables and converts them into fluctuating AC voltage. The ACM receives stereo and mono audio signals from the APIM in the form of fluctuating AC voltage. The ACM processes all inputs, and depending on the input received, sends stereo or mono analog audio signals to the speakers as fluctuating AC voltage.
The ACM receives radio waves containing satellite radio and HD Radio® (if equipped) data through the antenna coaxial cable. The data is sent to be displayed on the FDIM .
The ACM contains the CD player.
The ACM sends data to the APIM through the SDL circuits for the SIRIUS Travel Link features.
The ACM requires PMI when it is replaced.
Antenna
The AM / FM radio uses the fixed-mast roof-mounted combination AM / FM /satellite radio/ GPS antenna to receive analog radio waves. The radio waves are sent through the amplifier integrated into the antenna base and AM / FM antenna coaxial cable to the ACM , where they are further amplified.
To compensate for AM signal strength loss as the radio waves are transmitted from the antenna to the ACM , battery voltage is applied to the antenna to boost the AM radio signal. This allows the AM radio waves entering the ACM to be approximately the same strength as they were before amplification at the antenna.
If equipped, the HD Radio® uses the fixed-mast roof-mounted combination AM / FM /satellite radio/ GPS antenna to receive radio waves containing digital audio and data. The radio waves are sent through the AM / FM antenna coaxial cable to the HD Radio® receiver built into the ACM . The radio waves containing digital audio are amplified to improve reception.
The satellite radio uses the fixed-mast roof-mounted combination AM / FM /satellite radio/ GPS antenna to receive signals containing digital audio and data. These signals are sent through the satellite radio antenna coaxial cable to the satellite radio receiver built into the ACM .
The roof-mounted antenna contains a GPS antenna circuit board that receives radio waves containing GPS data. The data is sent through the satellite radio/ GPS coaxial cable, satellite radio/ GPS splitter, and GPS coaxial cable to the APIM .
APIM
The APIM can be operated with the ignition in RUN, ACC, or OFF.
The APIM receives stereo and mono inputs. Stereo inputs include audio from the USB ports, connected Bluetooth-enabled media device, and outside device during a phone call. The mono input includes signals from the SYNC® microphone.
The APIM sends stereo and mono audio signals to the ACM as fluctuating AC voltage. Stereo outputs include audio from the USB ports, connected Bluetooth-enabled media device, ringback tone, outside device during a phone call, voice or tone prompts initiated from the voice steering wheel switch, and instructions or information spoken by the SYNC® system when initiated from the voice steering wheel switch. Mono outputs include audio from the TTS feature, incoming call ringtone, instructions or information spoken by the SYNC® system when initiated from the FDIM , and navigation route guidance voice or tone prompts (if equipped with navigation).
The APIM receives data from the ACM through the SDL circuits. This data is processed and sent to be displayed on the FDIM .
The TTS feature allows the customer to hear information through the audio system speakers so it does not have to be read from the FDIM and/or device while driving. Examples include incoming text message sender information, text messages, and metadata from audio being played via USB or Bluetooth.
The APIM consists of two internal modules: the CIP and the VIP . The modules are not replaceable individually, but can be programmed independently if required.
The CIP interfaces with all of the customer inputs to the APIM . It contains an analog-to-digital-to-analog converter, as well as the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi chipset.
The VIP provides an interface between the CIP and the vehicle inputs. Its main functions are controlling the APIM power management and translating inbound and outbound CAN signals.
The APIM provides the FDIM with power and ground through the LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) cable.
The APIM receives GPS data through the GPS coaxial cable. The data is used for the navigation system (if equipped) and SIRIUS Travel Link date/time-dependent features such as sports schedules and scores, movie times, and the 5-day weather forecast. The APIM also uses this data to identify the vehicle’s location in the event of a collision and to display the compass heading on the FDIM .
The APIM requires programming when it is replaced.
FCIM
The FCIM can be operated with the ignition in RUN, ACC, or OFF.
The FCIM audio system buttons provide one of the methods through which the customer interacts with the infotainment system.
The FCIM is separate from the ACM .
The FCIM requires PMI when it is replaced.
FDIM
The FDIM can be operated with the ignition in RUN, ACC, or OFF.
The capacitive touch FDIM provides one of the methods through which the customer interacts with the infotainment system. For more information, refer to “Using the Touchscreen” in the Owner's Literature.
The FDIM is attached to the APIM .
As the FDIM does not communicate on the CAN, the APIM acts as the proxy for all FDIM inputs and outputs requiring CAN communication. Communication between the FDIM (including FDIM customer inputs) and APIM is accomplished via the LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) cable. The FDIM power and ground are provided by the APIM through this cable as well.
LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) Cable
The four circuit shielded LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) cable provides power and ground from the APIM to the FDIM and is also the means by which data is transmitted from the APIM to the FDIM and from the FDIM to the APIM .
Noise Suppression Equipment
The radio frequency suppression equipment reduces interference transmitted through the speakers by the engine, ignition, and electrical systems. When installing any new radio suppression equipment components, make sure that a good contact is made at all connections.
Steering Wheel Switches
The LH steering wheel switches contain series of resistors. Each steering wheel switch function corresponds with a specific resistance value within the switch.
The APIM sends a 5-volt reference voltage to the LH steering wheel switches on the input circuit. When a switch is pressed, the voltage is routed through the corresponding resistor(s), through the return circuit, and then to ground through the APIM . The APIM monitors the resultant voltage drop to determine which switch was pressed. The voltage drop varies depending upon the resistance of the specific switch pressed.
The steering wheel switch inputs are sent as network messages from the APIM to the ACM to control audio functions.
SYNC® Microphone
The SYNC® microphone is powered by the APIM .
The SYNC® microphone receives SYNC® system voice commands and outgoing audio during a phone call. The monitored sounds are converted into analog signals by the microphone and sent to the APIM as fluctuating AC voltage.
USB Hub
The USB hub contains two USB ports. The USB ports allow audio from portable media devices to play through the vehicle speakers.
The USB hub is powered by circuits carrying battery voltage from the APIM . The APIM outputs approximately 5V on the USB cable to power the USB cable data communication circuits.
The USB ports can be used to power and/or charge a device if the device supports this feature and does not have a power consumption requirement of more than approximately 5V and 2.5A (about 13 watts).
Data is sent from the two USB ports to the APIM through a single USB cable.
Special Tool(s) / General Equipment
Surface GaugeCheck
Ride Height Measurement - Front
NOTE: Make sure that the vehicle is positioned on a flat, level surface and the tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Vehicle should have a full tank of fuel.
Ride height = 2-3