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I am having trouble with all sorts of functions on my 2002 F150 4x4, 4wd not working, cluster module illumination not working, horn not working, reving up and down at idle and sometimes dyin, cruise control quit working. I have been reading it is the GEM module that causes these issues. My question is I ordered a new one from Ford, when it arrives I was told I can just install it and It should be pre programmed. but one ford house tells me that they have to install it and program it. Which it right? can anyone tell me? I have seen several sites on u tube where people replace the module and then start their truck right up without any issue. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
The GEM module only would affect the 4x4 operation, none of the rest of your issues utilize the GEM. You likely have at least three unrelated issues in that list.
You'd either have to get a GEM that is already configured for your specific option set or, if a new module from a dealer, it would have to be re-programmed at installation time.
Kenny; I've run into similar issue with my Expy. multiple functions acting wonky (wipers, flashers, seat heaters). Research (including replacing the multifunction switch before the seat issue became apparent) and reading through Ford Shop Manual narrowed my issues to GEM.
Here's the bad. The data in the GEM has to be uploaded into an NGS (or equivalent) scan device BEFORE the GEM comes out of your truck. Then, once you install the new one, the data has to be downloaded into the new GEM, BEFORE the truck is driven. You can try just swapping it out and driving, but my understanding is that the truck won't work without its data.
This scanner is not the one you borrow from O'Reilly's when you want to read a code. You can find the Hickock brand software and adapter for a laptop online for about $700. My dealer quoted me shop rates of $102/hr. SInce I found a used GEM online for about 15% of the Ford Parts price, it put me money ahead.