I have a 2016 Escape and the Audio Control Module (radio) has gone out. I've contact Ford about a replacement radio and it is available. I've looked at various Youtube video of guys replacing their radios and it appears its just a plug and play removal and reinstall. If in fact it is a plug and play - Do I need the dealer to reprogram the radio? The dealer wants $295 to reprogram the radio. I'm thinking it's just another stealer profit center.
Any advice or experience you've had with replacing your radio is appreciated.
Thanks.

 

I know this doesn't answer your question but...I would look at an aftermarket head unit, especially if you do have to get it programmed. There are some pretty nice ones out there with more functionality for less a lot of the time.

Hopefully someone will be along to answer your specific questions.

 

Probably not what you want to hear but the shop manual states that you have to download the configuration from the old unit to the Ford scan tool prior to removing the unit. That data then has to be uploaded back into the replacement unit after installation.

If I had to guess, I would imagine that the radio checks the VIN information of the vehicle its installed in before it will work as an anti-theft strategy. Makes a stolen radio useless.