Looking around the internet and seems that I can buy a chinese copy of the Ford IDS/VCM Rotunda system, its only around ver 7x or 8x which says it will do cars up to 2011, which is fine since I own a 2007.

Just wondering if anyone is using this or something like it. Seems it would be cost efficient compared to your first dealer visit to have something checked or programmed. I'm not talking about just reading codes, but actually doing IDS programming like changing the steering wheel, or stereo etc.

I used to have a VW and the Vag-Com system and software I used was invaluable when doing work on the Diesel pump and such.

Anyone?

 

Really?, no one on here has their own IDS? Seems odd. Is it really that hard to use, or that much a dark secret?

 

Well I bit the Bullit (pun intended!) and got the IDS\VCM system. Works like a charm. Was able to reprogram the Factory NAV (ACM Module) that I bought, was able to tell it I have steering wheel contrrols and now installing the 2011+ BOSS Steering Wheel.

 

School me.

I'm interested in knowing more about what it is you got, and what you are able to do with it.

 

IDS is the software and VCM is the hardware. Its the actual Ford Dealer system that is used anytime you need anything done to your car, a PCM reflash, Add or change any module such as ABS, Factory Stereo, ect. Its also used to change axle ratios, tire size ect. It programs the PATS system. All diagnostics and troubleshooting, Basically anything you take it to the dealer for can be done without a trip to the dealer if you take the time to learn the system same as a Ford tech would.

The system costs over $3000, but you can buy them from China for less than $400. Just have to make sure you buy a quality version from the same manufacture as the original, as many of the "clones" don't have all the electronics of the original and therfore will fail to program a number of the modules. http://www.adkautodiagnostic.com/top...01e4c0b72abdc8