Ford Taurus Service Manual: Specifications, Description and Operation

SPECIFICATIONS

Torque Specifications

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

Information and Entertainment System

Component Location

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

  1. Speaker - A-pillar
  2. Global Positioning System Module (GPSM)
  3. Speaker - instrument panel
  4. Microphone
  5. Front Display Interface Module (FDIM)
  6. Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM)
  7. Audio Front Control Module (ACM)
  8. Antenna module
  9. Speaker - parcel shelf center
  10. Speaker - subwoofer
  11. Digital Signal Processing (DSP) module
  12. Antenna - satellite radio
  13. Antenna cable - satellite radio, AM/FM
  14. Speaker - rear door
  15. Media Hub
  16. Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables
  17. Speaker - front door

Overview

The audio system consists of a 12 speaker system (the rear door speakers are composed of 2 speakers) with an AM/FM single CD ACM, 8-inch (203 mm) touchscreen FDIM, Sony branded FCIM, audio DSP module, steering wheel controls, SYNC with media hub, optional navigation, optional satellite radio and HD Radio.

The SYNC system is a hands-free communication and entertainment system that provides the ability to:

  • Send and receive phone calls via a Bluetooth-enabled paired phone
  • Send and receive text messages via a Bluetooth-enabled paired phone
  • Connect media devices (such as an iPod or USB device) in order to play audio files
  • Play media files via a Bluetooth-enabled audio device
  • WiFi signal receiver for in-car internet access (requires customer-supplied USB modem)
  • Produce vehicle health reports
  • Do not disturb feature
  • Initiate an emergency call (eCall) when the air bags deploy
  • Provide turn-by-turn traffic directions

While SYNC supports many features, not all features are available with every phone. For example, text messaging is supported by SYNC, but not available with most phones.

In addition to entertainment system control, the operator can also control the climate control system, the ambient lighting system, and several other vehicle systems using either the touchscreen or voice controls.

Refer to the Owner's Literature for further information on SYNC.

System Operation

System Diagram

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

Network Message Chart

 Module Network Input Messages - ACM

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

 Module Network Input Messages - APIM

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

 Module Network Input Messages - Audio DSP Module

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

 Module Network Input Messages - FCIM

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

 Module Network Input Messages - GPSM

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

 Module Network Input Messages - IPC

Ford Taurus. Audio Systems

AM/FM Radio

The AM/FM antenna, integral to the rear window, receives AM and FM radio waves and HD Radio channels. The antenna module sends the radio waves to the ACM through the AM/FM antenna cable. The ACM powers the AM/FM antenna to amplify the AM signal. The audio signals are sent from the roof-mounted antenna, via the AM/FM antenna cable to the ACM. The ACM converts the radio waves to a fluctuating AC output voltage. The ACM sends the right and left audio signals to the audio DSP module. The audio DSP module processes the audio signals and sends them to the speakers.

Satellite Radio

The satellite antenna receives digital signals and sends them to the ACM through the satellite radio antenna cable. The satellite radio receiver is built into the ACM.

Speed Compensated Volume

The audio DSP module adjusts the audio system volume based on the VSS signal to compensate for speed and wind noise.

Instrument Panel Cluster ( IPC ) Infotainment Display

The RH side of the IPC contains an infotainment display. This screen displays a subset of infotainment information, and it is controlled by the 5-way RH steering wheel switch.

Steering Wheel Switch Function

The RH steering wheel switch consist of an integrated 5-way upper switch and three 2-way toggle lower switches. The 5-way steering wheel switch operates the IPC infotainment display. The three 2-way toggle steering wheel switches operate the audio system functions including SYNC.

Battery Load Shed

The BCM uses the battery current sensor to keep track of the battery state of charge. The battery current sensor is a hall-effect sensor attached to the battery ground cable. When the engine is off, and the BCM determines the battery state of charge is below 40% or 10% of the charge has been drained or 45 minutes have elapsed, a load shed message is sent over the CAN. This message turns off the audio/navigation system to save the remaining battery charge. Under this condition, SYS OFF TO SAVE BATT is displayed on the centerstack infotainment display to notify the driver that battery protection actions are active.

Engine off load shed occurs when the engine is not running, and the ignition is in the ACC or RUN position. To clear the load shed state, restart the engine.

MyKey Audio Operation

When a MyKey is in use:

  • the audio system is muted whenever the Belt-Minder is activated until the safety belts are buckled
  • the satellite radio adult content stations are restricted
  • if always on is selected in the MyKey menu then the 911 assist and do not disturb feature are enabled and cannot be disable

The MyKey also has an optional setting that limits the audio system volume. The maximum volume of the audio system is limited to 45%. In an attempt to exceed the limited volume, the MyKey VOLUME LIMITED message is displayed in the centerstack infotainment display. The speed compensated volume feature will be disabled.

Refer to the Owner's Literature for further information on MyKey.

Audio Extended Play

The audio extended play is a feature that enables the audio system after the ignition is OFF and any door has been opened. When the power button on the FCIM is pressed, the audio system functionality is restored and remains active for a period of 20-60 minutes, depending on configuration settings. To turn the audio system OFF, the power button on the FCIM is pressed. The audio extended play is disabled if the battery saver function is enabled.

Navigation

The navigation system guides the user to a pre-entered destination. Map data is read from the map data SD card plugged into the media hub. The APIM calculates route information based on GPS data received by the GPSM. The APIM also uses vehicle speed and transmission gear selected signals received through the network to detect vehicle speed and direction, resulting in more accurate navigation tracking. The navigation display is shown on the FDIM.

The compass heading is derived from the GPS antenna signal. There are no serviceable parts for the compass.

The voice recognition system allows the user to interface with the system without using the touchscreen. A microphone located in the headliner provides a direct input to the APIM.

Voice Recognition

Voice recognition is used for many vehicle functions, including audio system and climate controls. The microphone relays the microphone input to the APIM through dedicated wiring. The TTS and voice prompt features speak certain text information and interaction requests to minimize driver distraction by having to look at the audio system display while driving. The ringtone alerts the driver to an incoming call. The microphone is also used to detect outgoing audio during a phone call.

Audible prompts can range from a simple tone to more elaborate spoken text, based on the customer setting. When interaction mode is set to standard, detailed guidance is provided. When interaction mode is set to advanced, most prompts are tones only and minimal audible guidance is provided. Refer to the Owner's Literature for further information on voice interaction.

The audio signals for the TTS and voice prompt features, the ringtones, and audio from the outside device during a phone call, are sent from the APIM to the audio DSP module.

Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

The Sony audio system provide theatre quality sound in the vehicle. Audio signals are sent from the ACM to the audio DSP module, which processes the audio signals and sends them to the speakers.

The audio DSP module determines the correct audio environment based on the audio signals it receives and on the network messages it receives from other audio system modules. These messages include such information as fade/balance and speed sensitive volume settings.

The audio DSP module is enabled through software.

In the event of an overload, the audio DSP module clips the audio output signal to the speakers and subwoofer (heard as distortion) in order to prevent damage to the speakers.

Bluetooth Mode

Bluetooth is a secure, short-range radio frequency that allows devices to communicate wirelessly through radio waves. The operating range of a Bluetooth signal is a maximum of 9.75 m (32 ft.).

The Bluetooth interface can accommodate both Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and Bluetooth-enabled media devices. The SYNC system allows interaction with several types of customer Bluetooth devices, including mobile phones and media devices. The APIM contains an on-board Bluetooth chipset, which enables certain wireless devices to interact with the system. Any Bluetooth device used with the SYNC system must first be paired with the system before it is operational.

Only one Bluetooth phone and one Bluetooth media device can be connected to the system at any one time. If an additional device of either type is paired with the system and made active, the APIM disconnects any active connection and establishes a connection with the new device.

When a new Bluetooth device is added, the APIM and the Bluetooth device must be paired together. Most Bluetooth devices can pair with the SYNC system, although functionality may vary. To determine if a Bluetooth device is supported, verify the customer device is on the compatibility list for the current APIM software level.

Pairing a Bluetooth device is accomplished through the "Add Device" selection of the phone menu. When pairing a device, the SYNC system generates a unique PIN that must be entered on the Bluetooth device in order for the pairing process to be successful. There are also some device-specific actions that must take place. For additional information on the pairing process, refer to the Owner's Literature.

It is important to understand that not all mobile phones have the same level of features when interacting with the SYNC system. For a list of compatible phones, refer to the SYNC MyRide website.

USB Audio Mode

The USB port can be used for connecting a media device (such as an iPod) with the device's available cable, or for directly plugging in a portable mass storage device (such as a "thumb drive"). When playing media files stored on a mass storage device, the SYNC system only plays files that do not have DRM protection. The USB port can also be used for uploading vehicle application upgrades. The USB port is powered by the APIM, so no external power source is needed to power a device plugged into the USB port if the device supports this feature.

In addition to audio information, metadata (information as artist, album title, song title, and genre) may also be sent to the APIM from a device plugged into the USB port. The APIM uses the metadata to create indexes that can be used to sort for particular music, based on customer preference. Not all USB devices can send metadata to the APIM. When a new media device is connected to the SYNC system, the APIM automatically indexes the information. This may take several minutes (depending on the amount of data on the device), and is considered normal operation. When a device that was previously connected to the SYNC system is reconnected, the APIM updates the index (rather than creating a new one), which reduces the amount of time needed to index the device.

USB Video Mode

The USB port has the capability to view photos stored on memory devices and display them on the FDIM.

SD Card Audio Mode

The SD card slot can be used for playing audio content that is stored on the SD card.

SD Card Video Mode

The SD card slot has the capability to view photos stored on memory SD cards and display them on the FDIM.

Composite Audio-Video Input Mode

The composite audio and video inputs consist of the RCA jack connections that are used for playing video or audio content from an external device (such as a gaming system). The media hub contains an internal composite audio/video translator connected to the external RCA jacks, which output video and audio signals to the APIM via a shielded audio and video harness.

Audible Prompts

The APIM receives both stereo and mono sound inputs, and can also transmit both stereo and mono sound. The mono function is used to receive the microphone input. It is also used to send sound to the ACM for voice prompts, the TTS feature, ringtones, and any audio received through a connected mobile phone. The TTS feature speaks information so that it does not have to be read from the display.

SIRIUS Data Services

The satellite radio system has SIRIUS data services that are separate subscription services which are received through the satellite receiver. The data services include periodic updates for:

  • Traffic
  • Movies
  • Weather
  • Gas prices
  • Sports score tracking

Some services may be available separately while others are only available as packages.

SYNC Traffic, Directions and Information

The SYNC traffic, directions and information service is a subscription-based service that includes precise turn-by-turn directions, personalized real-time traffic updates with text alerts, business search, entertainment, news, sports, stocks, travel and weather. The customers mobile phone is used to access and download the SYNC services. The GPS antenna, that is integral to the GPSM, is used to detect the location and direction of the vehicle. For traffic, directions and information services subscription, refer to the SYNC MyRide website.

HD Radio

HD Radio is a free to public digital radio broadcast. Radio stations transmit digital AM and FM audio and data (such as station call letters, artist, and title). HD Radio channels duplicate analog channels; in addition, some HD Radio channels subdivide (multicast) the digital signal into multiple channels that do not have analog equivalents.

APIM Programming

The APIM for this vehicle requires specific programming procedures for correct operation. APIM programming is required when:

  • APIM is replaced
    • Programming is required when the APIM is replaced.
  • Directed by a TSB
    • Updates to resolve SYNC performance concerns can only be performed when directed by a TSB.
  • Feature upgrades are requested
    • Occasional feature upgrades and/or new applications can be programmed when they become available. This type of programming is available upon customer request and expense.

Types of Programming

There are 3 types of APIM programming available:

  • Module Replacement - used when the APIM has been replaced. This type of programming performs the required provisioning.
  • Standard - used to update the APIM and any currently installed applications to the latest software level.
  • Custom - shows all available software options (including applications that may not have been previously installed) that can be programmed into the APIM. Use this selection when upgrades become available or as directed by a TSB.

Software Installation Methods

There are 3 types of software installation methods:

  • Full Flash (Force CIP ) - a CIP program is the entire software package for the APIM. Performing a Full Flash erases the existing APIM software and installs the complete program. A Full Flash should only be performed if a Service Pack is not available. If a Full Flash is performed, all applications must be re-installed. Performing a Full Flash by selecting Force CIP requires additional programming time and is not necessary unless directed by a TSB.
  • Service Pack - a Service Pack update only provides the necessary software to update the existing APIM program to a new level. For example, a Service Pack would change the software program from and "AA" to an "AB" version level. It does not delete or overwrite the existing APIM software. A Service Pack is a much smaller program than a Full Flash and requires less downloading and programming time. A Service Pack software installation should always be performed instead of a Full Flash, if possible.
  • Applications - applications are special software programs that may be installed on the APIM. Applications necessary for each vehicle are determined by the vehicle build information stored in the Ford online database. Selecting individual applications for installation may not be necessary every time the APIM is programmed.

NOTE: VIP programming is not selectable because the VIP is configured automatically during programming.

General Programming Instructions

There are some general programming guidelines that are applicable to multiple types of programming:

  • Service Pack and Applications
    • A USB flash drive with a minimum 1 gigabyte (GB) storage capacity is required.
    • The file is downloaded from the Ford online database onto the flash drive. The files are then transferred via the flash drive to the APIM through the vehicle USB port.
  • Full Flash/Force CIP
    • The scan tool, along with the SYNC Re-Flash Kit (or equivalent) are required to complete the flash procedure.
    • All previously paired phones are deleted from the SYNC system.
    • The file needs to be downloaded from the Ford online database. Allow for extra time in order to complete the download. The compressed files are between 200 and 400 megabytes (MB), and once downloaded will be extracted to the full size of approximately 2 GB.
    • Once scan tool programming is complete, applications need to be installed with the USB flash drive. This should be accomplished by connecting the USB flash drive to the media hub.

To perform module replacement programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming - Module Replacement.

To perform standard programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming - Standard.

To perform custom programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Programming - Custom.

Component Description

Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM)

The APIM consists of 2 internal modules: the CIP and the VIP. These modules are not replaceable individually, but can be flashed independently, if required.

The CIP interfaces with all of the inputs to the APIM. It contains an analog-to-digital-to analog converter, as well as the Bluetooth chipset. Any application upgrades that are available to the consumer are loaded directly to the CIP through the USB port.

The VIP provides an interface between the CIP and the vehicle. Its main functions are controlling the APIM power management and translating both inbound and outbound signals. In addition, the VIP queries the modules on the network to retrieve any DTCs when a vehicle health report is requested.

Antenna

The AM/FM antenna is integral to the rear window and has an integrated antenna module that is powered by the ACM to improve AM/FM reception.

Audio Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Module

The audio DSP module enhances the input audio signal sound quality from the ACM. The audio DSP module requires PMI when it is replaced.

Audio Front Control Module (ACM)

The ACM can be operated with the ignition in RUN or ACC. The accessory delay feature allows the audio system to be operated for a preset period of time after the ignition is turned off and a front door has not been opened. The ACM requires PMI when it is replaced.

Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM)

The FCIM is one of the customer interfaces to the audio system and the HVAC module. It is separate from the ACM.

Front Display Interface Module (FDIM)

The FDIM provides for customer interaction through the touchscreen display. The FDIM plugs directly into the APIM, and therefore does not communicate directly on any network and no external circuits are connected.

Global Positioning System Module (GPSM)

The GPSM provides vehicle location for real-time traffic reports and re-routing, and for identifying vehicle location in the event of a collision.

For vehicles with navigation, the GPSM acts as the antenna for the navigation system.

The vehicle location information is broadcast to the APIM.

Media Hub

The media hub allows for various audio and video devices to be played through the vehicle speakers and viewed in the FDIM display.

The media hub receives inputs from:

  • 2 USB ports
  • 1 SD card slot
  • 1 set of component RCA jacks

Satellite Antenna

The satellite antenna is integrated into the roof-mounted antenna module.

Steering Wheel Switches

The RH steering wheel switch consists of a series of resistors. Each steering wheel control switch function corresponds with a specific resistance value within the switch. The SCCM sends out a 5 volt reference voltage to the RH steering wheel switch on the input circuits and monitors the voltage drop when a button is pressed. The voltage drop varies depending upon the resistance of the specific button pressed, providing indication to the SCCM which switch is pressed.

Microphone

The microphone receives the voice command and sends a signal to the APIM. The microphone is also used to detect outgoing audio during a phone call and voice command for the SYNC system.

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