Coding/programming with other than forscan edit tested

[budpalumbo]

Euro mechanic here, haven't hooked up to a Ford more than generic obd2. Seems like forscan is only device talked about here and looking at price v features I get it.

Maverick should be here in a couple weeks, and my scanner blew up. Looking at a flagship from topdon, autel or launch for personal use.

Is a forscan a Ford only device that does what those do, or is it something "more than" and I'll want it too because those can't change X settings?

Edit: a topdon doesn't appear to have the ability to change settings in any of the modules like a forscan does.

I am unwilling to hit any programming for new modules, swapping, or play with too many buttons on a truck, and tool both less than 24 hrs. old. I'll get a $20 cable and just follow the already out there instructions.


Side note: topdon has a start/stop alteration function built in. It does not work on the mav, data logs sent.

Sponsored

 

[Darnon]

FORScan isn't a device but a program. So you'll still need a laptop + OBD2 adapter. The main purpose is its ability to modify the programmed settings in the various modules, although it does offer some special tests, maintenance operations, and data streaming. I haven't tested its capability with those much versus my work scanner.

Also it's Ford only so if you need something for other brands you'll want a multi-manufacturer scanner.

 

[Rivers90]

Your obd2 can bus scanner is for reading codes and maybe doing maintenance things. Forscan is for programing.
So when a check engine light comes on use the scanner to see what the error code is. But if you want to add sand mode or eco mode to a truck that did not come with it use forscan to do this.

So you may need both depending on what you want to do. Or you may only need one.

I have not wanted to change the programming so I don't need forscan and I have not had a check engine light or any problems so I have not needed a OBD2 scanner yet.

edit:
sounds like forscan can do everything.

 

[Darnon]

Your obd2 can bus scanner is for reading codes and maybe doing maintenance things. Forscan is for programing.
So when a check engine light comes on use the scanner to see what the error code is. But if you want to add sand mode or eco mode to a truck that did not come with it use forscan to do this.

FORScan can read/delete DTC codes as well.

 

[Montana]

FDRS - Ford Diagnostic & Repair System

Not a financially feasible piece of software for 99% of people, but it's another one and will do things that ForScan can't.

 

[colinl]

FDRS - Ford Diagnostic & Repair System

Not a financially feasible piece of software for 99% of people, but it's another one and will do things that ForScan can't.

I am not sure if that's true anymore. A lot of the ability to change things is gone in FDRS since 2018.

It can program a key fob or enable optional accessories, but it can't do things like disable the double horn honk if you get out while the engine is running.

 

[Automate]

Also it's Ford only so if you need something for other brands you'll want a multi-manufacturer scanner.

Ford, Lincoln, Mazda and Mercury (if you still have one). Mazda due to Ford partially owning them at one time and they standardized on the same protocols as Ford.

 

[Montana]

I am not sure if that's true anymore. A lot of the ability to change things is gone in FDRS since 2018.

It can program a key fob or enable optional accessories, but it can't do things like disable the double horn honk if you get out while the engine is running.

ForScan won't put a vehicle into brake service mode but FDRS will. It's a much better diagnostic/service tool and that's why service departments rely on it. ForScan is really just for making minor modifications.

 

[deputylynch]

Can forscan be used to program the remote keyboard on a maverick wit remote start?

Sponsored