I've spent the last two days reading various forums regarding the VSM on a Ford. My conclusion is I'm not sure even one exist or if it does, you can't find one unless you are lucky enough to have a parts yard with one. First, let me describe the problem with one of the best vehicles I've ever owned. Out of the blue, my door ajar light came one (still is) and I've looked at fuses and sprayed door locks with gallons of WD40 with no success in getting the light to go off Key fob won't work.. When I turn my radio on, stays on even when I get out of the truck and the ignition is off. Auto headlights won't come on. Have to turn on manually. Bell ding when key is in ignition is silent. No inside lights unless I turn on manually. Plug my trailer lights into my plug but no power to light them. Sometimes, the windows will not go down nor will my built in garage opener (programed on visor) open my garage door. Both start working after a while but NONE of the other issues ever work now. And my CD player on radio won't eject a CD that is in it (that may just be a radio issue.)

From what I've read, these issues tie back to the VSM. First, where in the world is this thing? I thought it was behind the radio but then thought I read where it is behind the fuse box. I've also ready where the 2002 had issues and if you put the same back in (if you can find one), you just inherit the same on going problems. Then saw where you should use one from 2003 Ford F350 Super Duty." And then there are the program issues. Some VSMs seemly you can install and they come right up. Others say it needs to be programmed by the Ford dealer. What part # will work in with this year Excursion?

Would really appreciate any insight and direction especially maybe any answers to my question to help clear the confusion. Sorry for all the questions and thanks in advance for any help.

 

Its commonly known as the GEM module. Circuit Medics fix these iirc.

 

It's my understanding that the GEM was used through 2001. The back of the speedo is said to have relays and GEM functions.

 

Thanks for the input. So, would the GEM be responsible for the issues I described in my original post? I briefly read some info on the GEM and I didn't see a lot that pointed toward my issues. But if needs to be replaced, is this the one that is attached or located to the fuse box under the driver side dash? If so, do these have to be programmed by Ford dealer or can it be matched to my VIN. Again, wandering around in the dark on this. Looks like I may have been chasing the wrong module. Thanks for any additional input.

 

The Vehicle Security Module (VSM) controls the following Systems:

• perimeter alarm
• remote keyless entry (and panic feature)
• computer-operated locks
• autolamp

Vehicle Security Module
REMOVAL

1. Disconnect the battery ground cable.

NOTE: Prior to removal of the vehicle security module, it is necessary to upload module configuration information to a diagnostic tool. This information needs to be downloaded into the new module once installed.

1. Locate the vehicle security module on the dash panel behind the radio and heater controls and disconnect the vehicle security module electrical connectors.

 

I much appreciate your input, but I'm still having this dilemma...is it a VSM or GEM? Are those terms interchangeable?? From what I see in your post and photo, the radio come out and device is behind it. Where do I go with it then? Try to match the part # on the device and either ship it to someone to program or find an exact replacement. Getting close!! Thanks!

 

VSM and GEM are the same thing.

NOTE: Prior to removal of the vehicle security module, it is necessary to upload module configuration information to a diagnostic tool. This information needs to be downloaded into the new module once installed
NOTE: Once the new module is installed it is necessary to download the module configuration information from the diagnostic tool into the new module.
NOTE: Upon installation of a new Vehicle Security Module (VSM) , the module must be reconfigured.

You could send it out for repair or find another one.

For instance: https://moduleexperts.com/shop/?filt...icle-year=2002

 

Thank you for the clarification on the VSM/GEM. Obviously, I would like to do this myself to save some bucks (hate giving it to the Ford dealer) but I don't have a tool that would store the data off the old one and load back to the new one, so would I not just be better off taking it to the Ford dealer and let me do it? Anyone had an experience in cost for this procedure by a dealership? Are there shops that can do this (Pep Boys) for example or is this purely a dealership fix? Thanks.

 

The VSM replaced the GEM (General Electronic Module) 02-03 and possibly through 05. The GEM is/was piggy backed to the fuse box behind the lower steering column access panel, the VSM is located where 2002Ex mentioned.

 

Given the last comment, this is my assumption...I have a 02 which means the GEM was replaced by the VSM and the VSM is behind the radio/heater control. When I first thought this was a VSM issue, I can't find one, but GEMs are available. Before I pull the radio which appears to be no big deal, I'm now back to looking for a VSM. Correct assumption?

 

It should look something like this. 3 connectors is the giveaway.

 

This is the part number that is returned for your BCM (body control module), which appears to be avail.

(3C3Z-14B205-AA)

My ownership stops at 2001, from what I'm able to verify by search is that the BCM appears to be what really replaced the GEM, and the VSM as described above would be for your PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) So I think I am mis-speaking when I say that the VSM replaced the GEM. It's a known fact that Ford changed the electronics platform starting in 2002 so my vehicle has a GEM, but the VSM part number is the same for my vehicle.

https://www.tascaparts.com/oem-parts...e-3c3z14b205aa

This part number is returned for your VSM module which is NLA from Ford.

(98BZ-19A366-EA)

https://www.tascaparts.com/oem-parts...OC1kaWVzZWw%3D

 

Thanks for the input. I assumed the module I am looking for now is behind the radio. Went to part place to get the pins to pull the radio and had zero luck with that. As matter of fact, the pins broke off some of the plastic facing around the radio where pin slots are so not sure I will ever get it out now. "Bout ready to throw in the towel on this project and go to the dealer. However, before I make that costly mistake, does any know if the radio can still be removed with the pin holes basically gone on one side. I can get them into the inserts and the radio moves some, but it won't come forward and applying the pressure doesn't seem to help. Thanks again...

 

This is the pic I meant to post. It should look something like this.



As for the stereo, mine must not have the pins you are referring to. I can remove the dash face and the stereo comes with it. Usually there is a specific tool or sequence for dislodging factory radios.

Like this:

 

Your diagram for the clip inserts looks just like mine. I bought them from the parts store but the radio won't pull forward. As mentioned, I can tell it is loose but just not sliding forward even when I put pressure on the U shaped clips.