The Ford As-Built data file contains the original factory configuration settings for your Ford vehicle’s modules. This data is crucial for diagnosing and resolving issues, restoring factory settings after modifications, and understanding the specific features your vehicle was equipped with when it left the assembly line. This article will guide you on how to access and utilize your Ford As-Built data.
Accessing Your Ford As-Built Data
The primary source for retrieving your Ford As-Built data is the Motorcraft Service website: https://www.motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt. This website allows you to input your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and access the As-Built data specific to your vehicle.
The Motorcraft website provides access to your Ford’s As-Built data.
Another way to obtain As-Built data, although not directly, is through a paid service from Marti Auto: https://www.martiauto.com/martireports.cfm. While primarily known for providing detailed build sheets and window stickers, Marti Auto can also provide access to As-Built data for a fee.
Why is Ford As-Built Data Important?
Having access to your Ford As-Built data offers several advantages:
- Troubleshooting: When diagnosing electrical or module-related problems, comparing the current settings with the original factory settings can help pinpoint the source of the issue.
- Restoring Factory Settings: If modifications have been made to your vehicle’s modules, the As-Built data allows you to revert to the factory default configuration. This can be essential for resolving problems caused by incorrect coding or restoring functionality after removing aftermarket equipment.
Forscan is a software tool that allows users to modify and back up module settings.
- Understanding Vehicle Features: The As-Built data reveals the specific features and options your vehicle was equipped with from the factory. This information can be helpful for verifying options, determining compatibility with accessories, or researching potential upgrades.
- Recovery from Data Loss: In the event of a system crash or data corruption, having a backup of the As-Built data can be crucial for restoring your vehicle’s modules to their original settings. This is particularly important if modifications have been made using software like FORScan, which allows for direct modification of module configurations.
FORScan and As-Built Data
FORScan is a powerful diagnostic and modification tool for Ford vehicles. It allows users to access and modify the various modules within the vehicle, including those controlled by the As-Built data.
It’s highly recommended to back up your existing module data using FORScan before making any changes. This creates a local copy of your As-Built data, allowing for easy restoration if necessary. FORScan’s backup feature provides a simpler and more convenient method of restoring settings compared to manually copying and pasting data from the Motorcraft website. This proactive approach safeguards against potential issues and ensures you can always revert to a known working configuration.
Conclusion
Ford As-Built data is a valuable resource for any Ford owner. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or rely on professional mechanics, understanding how to access and utilize this information is essential for maintaining and troubleshooting your vehicle. Remember to always back up your module configurations before making any changes using tools like FORScan, ensuring you can easily restore your vehicle to its optimal operating condition. Leveraging the As-Built data ensures you have a comprehensive understanding of your vehicle’s configuration and the ability to address potential issues effectively.
