I've been seeing a lot of confusion lately about Vehicle Configuration Index (VCI) numbers, in particular when it comes to the GM Supercharger reflash. About a month ago, I didn't know anything about VCI's, but now that I've figured out most of it and the basics of how they work, I figured I might share what I've learned with everyone else... plus then others can chime in, correct me where I might be wrong, or add other info about VCI's... then I'll compile all the info and stuff it in the FAQ so we all have somewhere to reference to!!
Quoted from the Feb 2004 issue of Techlink:
Quote:
Let’s begin with a definition.
A Vehicle Configuration Index (VCI) is a number assigned to a valid calibration or group of calibrations for each module for a specific vehicle that is programmed using the Service Programming System (SPS). Each VCI represents a specific vehicle configuration. Multiple VCI numbers can be assigned to the same Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) based on the number of SPS programmable modules on the vehicle. When programming using a VCI number, keep in mind that it is valid only for the vehicle and control module that it is issued for, and cannot be used to program another vehicle with the same configuration.
TIP: VCI numbers will always take you to the latest calibration or group of calibrations available in TIS.
When the vehicle leaves the assembly plant, a database has already been created for it. This is called the “as-built” data. At that time, VCI numbers are assigned to each VIN and control module based on variables such as engine type, transmission type, tire size, axle ratio, etc. If a dealer adds certain equipment to a vehicle, or changes certain equipment on a vehicle, the “as-built” data are no longer representative of the vehicle. So, it is necessary to obtain a new VCI number to represent the “as-is” content of the vehicle. An example is installing an optional wheel/tire size.
TIP: It is necessary to call the Techline Customer Support Center (TCSC) at 1.800.828.6860 to change a vehicle’s VCI.
TIP: For a given vehicle, it is possible to obtain VCI numbers only for combinations of components and specifications approved by General Motors.
Important Benefit of the VCI Number
The VCI concept provides an important benefit to dealers: the reconfiguration history of a vehicle does not need to be known before programming. It works like this. If a vehicle’s content is changed, requiring module reprogramming, a different VCI number is needed before the Techline terminal and Tech 2 can be used. Only TCSC can issue VCI numbers.
When TCSC issues a new VCI number for a vehicle, the changes made to the vehicle now become a part of the vehicle’s VIN data record. Once the database has been updated, subsequent Techline releases will contain the new information and a VCI number will no longer be required.
Imagine a 1999 J-car with a 2.4L engine and a 5 speed manual transmission. There is a unique VCI number that describes that particular powertrain, and the VCI is usually the same calibration number for all of those cars. There would be a different VCI number if that same car had a different engine or transmission. I'm not sure how many different VCIs exist for each year of J-car.. in theory it should be between 4-6 but could also depend on different regions such as California's CARB requirements. I'm not really sure.
If you want to find out what your VCI number is.. check out this site:
http://calid.gm.com/vci/VINEntryPre.do All you do is type in your VIN and it will give you the valid calibration IDs for your car.
Imagine for a moment that you installed a GM supercharger kit. The way the "reflash" works is quite simple. After installation, the GM dealer calls the TCSC and gives them your VIN, along with the part number for the reflash information. TCSC then takes your VIN and updates the VCI number for your car, replacing the regular non-supercharged VCI with the supercharged VCI information. The tech then downloads the new VCI for your car from the Techline terminal, and uploads it to your PCM which completes the reflash procedure.
Note: there are other ways around this... such as reflashing your PCM with a different VIN number. This is a necessary procedure in some circumstances, for example, following a transmission swap where you reflash the original PCM instead of installing the one out of the car the transmission came from. TCSC does NOT support transmission or engine swaps, so they are unable to provide a VCI number in those instances.
Any questions?
...j
<a href="http://www.lenkorules.com/"><img src="http://members.shaw.ca/jlenko/sig/redsig.jpg"></a>
Though I don't have a 2.4 nor am I supercharged. It explains a lot. Awesome John!
thanks lenko!
Evolution of Cavyboy-->C22t--> C24na--->c24s/c
1995 Cavalier W/2k1 Engine
GM S/C 13.940@99.78pmh w/2.068 60ft
I went to said website, and got two different #'s for part #'s and Cal. ID#'s. Does this mean i need said latest flash, or does it mean i already have said flash? My VIN is 1G2JD12T8W7529383 if someone would please help me understand this.
Well, if I put my VIN in, I got three numbers... therefore three different calibrations. The stock one it came out of the factory with, the first recall, and the second recall... I know from my own experience (with the silver Z) that it had been in for reflashing, but uncertain of the red car.. only way to tell is to call the dealer and find out if the recalls (one, in your case) has been done for your VIN or not.
I'm sure there's a way if you plug a Tech 2 into your car and download the info from your car... but otherwise, there's no way to be sure.
The VCI listings on your VIN (on that site) just tell you what it's supposed to be... not if it is or not.
<a href="http://www.lenkorules.com/"><img src="http://members.shaw.ca/jlenko/sig/redsig.jpg"></a>
Gotcha, any GM Dealer (ie a Pontiac in my case) will do it for free?
If it's a recall, then yes it should be free at any GM dealer. If it's a drivability update then they'd likely charge you.
<a href="http://www.lenkorules.com/"><img src="http://members.shaw.ca/jlenko/sig/redsig.jpg"></a>
hey john you got the VCI #'s for the gm s/c ?? i need the 5spd and auto
Not handy
Once the GM site comes back up, I can run my VIN and give you the 5 speed one... I had it written down, but I seem to have lost that scrap of paper in this "disaster" called my apartment...
I don't have the automatic VCI... but it might be on this forum somewhere...
<a href="http://www.lenkorules.com/"><img src="http://members.shaw.ca/jlenko/sig/redsig.jpg"></a>
is the vci number the same for all the cars with the same options? i was under the impression it was unique for each car?
... the former.
For example, the VCI for the PCM would be the same for all cars with the Ecotec and a 5 speed transmission....
Of course, there will be different VCIs for the BCM, those would vary with the Regular Production Options (RPO's)
...j
<a href="http://www.lenkorules.com/"><img src="http://members.shaw.ca/jlenko/sig/redsig.jpg"></a>
update for above, went to the Pontiac Dealer today to get some Synromesh, and asked about the VCI, and they wanted to charge $40 to see download the car's PCM, and if i were to have it reflashed it would be $80, he said since i wasnt having issues not to worry about it, does this sound right to you guys? BTW, he also said all of the recalls for the vehicle had been complied with, but i would think "Supersession to Correct false knock sensor retard'" would be something important, wouldnt you?
