01 F150

When you read the VIN# with a OBD11 scanner where does it get the VIN from, the PCM or the Instrument cluster?
I ask this cause A high dollar Snap On scanner and my little cheapy one
pull difference numbers!

 

It comes from the ID block in the program.
Depends on what you call a cheapie scanner.
Most mid ranges scanners can't look at the VIN in a Ford because it's not normally usefull for diagnostics.
One may read it out as a HEX code, another in a different format that still tells the same info when translated. It depends on what, how or why the aftermarket designer chose to write the scanner program and what features he included in the program and hardware to control the PCM data access.
For example, my scanner will cover me up with data from a Chrysler product but not nearly that amount from a Ford.
Does either match what's on the dash board as seen through the windshield on the driver's side and on your title or Lic info or the door jamb tag.?.
If it's of any interest there is a VIN decoder at the top of this page.
Plug in the numbers/letters and see what it tells.
Good luck.

 

My little scanner cost about $35.00. His big Snap On cost several thousand. If we pull the PCM neither one reads a VIN. With a new PCM mine does not read any, his will show a # but it is not the VIN on the truck door post.
With the old PCM installed mine reads the correct # from the post but his does not show any! That is why I wonder where the info comes from.
Truck shows a PATS problem.

 

Has the new PCM been programmed with factory as built data?
Has the keys been reprogrammed along with it?
This must all be done at the same time.
The PATS and the PCM 'marry' each other such that if you make a change both must be addressed with reprogramming.
What are you or have you done?

 

Thanks. I think that I understand that but still would like to know where the
number is stored, and if in more than one location.