Forscan: Do I Select 1999MY or 2002MY?
Forscan is a powerful software tool used by Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicle owners for diagnostics, programming, and customization. When using Forscan, selecting the correct model year (MY) is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your vehicle’s modules. One common question that arises is, “Forscan: Do I Select 1999MY or 2002MY?” This article will guide you through understanding the differences and making the right selection for your vehicle.
Understanding Model Year (MY) in Forscan
What Is Model Year (MY)?
The model year (MY) of a vehicle is the year that the manufacturer assigns for a specific production version. It may not necessarily match the calendar year of manufacture.
Why Does Forscan Ask for MY Selection?
Forscan requires you to select the correct MY because Ford vehicles can have different Electronic Control Units (ECUs), firmware, and software configurations depending on the model year. Choosing the incorrect MY can result in communication failures or inaccurate data readings.
Forscan: Do I Select 1999MY or 2002MY?
Identifying Your Vehicle’s Model Year
To determine whether you should select 1999MY or 2002MY, follow these steps:
- Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
- The 10th character of the VIN represents the model year.
- Example VIN Model Year Codes:
- X = 1999
- Y = 2000
- 1 = 2001
- 2 = 2002
- Look at the Vehicle Emission Label
- The emission label (found under the hood or on the door frame) typically states the model year.
- Refer to the Owner’s Manual
- The user manual may explicitly mention the model year.
- Check Forscan’s Auto-detection Feature
- Forscan can often detect the correct MY automatically when you connect your OBD2 adapter.
Differences Between 1999MY and 2002MY in Forscan
The 1999MY and 2002MY selections in Forscan may differ in:
- ECU Firmware Compatibility: Some vehicles produced in transition years (1999-2002) may use different firmware versions.
- Supported Modules: The availability of certain features, such as PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) programming, varies by MY.
- Live Data and Diagnostics: Some vehicles with earlier MY selections may not support certain advanced diagnostic features.
Common Issues and Solutions
Problem: Forscan Fails to Connect to the Vehicle
Solution:
- Try selecting the alternative MY (e.g., if 1999MY fails, try 2002MY).
- Ensure your OBD2 adapter supports Ford protocols (preferably an ELM327 USB or Bluetooth adapter).
- Check vehicle battery voltage (low voltage can prevent Forscan from connecting).
Problem: Forscan Reads Incorrect Module Data
Solution:
- Verify your VIN and confirm the correct MY.
- If your vehicle was produced in a transition year, test both MY options.
Problem: Unable to Program PATS Keys
Solution:
- Ford changed PATS systems between model years. If one selection doesn’t work, try the other.
- Use an extended license in Forscan for advanced programming functions.
FAQs About Forscan and Model Year Selection
1. How do I know if I should select 1999MY or 2002MY in Forscan?
Check your VIN’s 10th character. If it’s X (1999), select 1999MY; if it’s 2 (2002), select 2002MY.
2. What happens if I select the wrong MY in Forscan?
Selecting the wrong MY might cause Forscan to:
- Fail to communicate with modules.
- Display incorrect data.
- Prevent certain programming functions from working.
3. Can I switch between MY selections in Forscan?
Yes, you can switch between 1999MY and 2002MY to see which works best for your vehicle.
4. Is there a risk of damaging my vehicle by selecting the wrong MY?
No, selecting the wrong MY in Forscan will not cause permanent damage. However, it may lead to errors in diagnostics or programming.
5. My vehicle was manufactured in late 1999 but registered as a 2000 model. Which MY should I choose?
Vehicles manufactured in late 1999 for the 2000 model year might use 1999MY or 2000MY in Forscan. Check the VIN or try both MY options.
Conclusion
Selecting the correct MY in Forscan is essential for accurate diagnostics and programming. If you’re unsure whether to choose 1999MY or 2002MY, start by checking your VIN and testing both options if necessary. Forscan is a flexible tool, and with the right MY selection, you can unlock advanced features for your Ford vehicle.
By following this guide, you can confidently answer the question, “Forscan: Do I Select 1999MY or 2002MY?” and make the most of your diagnostic experience.
