Frequently Asked Questions.

Usually, no. Most replacement modules—even when they have not yet been programmed or configured—should still communicate with a capable scan tool. You may see faults indicating that programming, configuration or coding has not been completed, but communication should generally be present.

If there is no communication with the replacement module, check the basics before scheduling programming: power, grounds, fuses, network integrity and vehicle battery condition. If the module communicates and is reporting programming or configuration-related faults, that’s when you should call ECFT.

Sometimes. It depends heavily on the vehicle, module and manufacturer.

Some manufacturers and control modules allow used components to be adapted or configured to another vehicle. Others contain vehicle-specific, immobilizer or security information that prevents conventional reprogramming.

ECFT will determine what options are available for the vehicle and module involved. When used components are involved, successful programming cannot be guaranteed. We do not recommend or program used airbag control modules.

Before purchasing an expensive used module, contact us with the year, make, model, VIN and module information. We may be able to save you from buying a part that cannot be used.

Have two unique, functional keys available whenever possible.

Certain Ford security procedures may require two recognized keys. Two physical keys aren’t necessarily two unique keys—some aftermarket keys may be clones, causing the vehicle to recognize them as the same key.

Having two appropriate keys available before ECFT arrives can prevent an incomplete procedure and an unnecessary second visit.

ECFT uses licensed OEM software, scan tools and procedures where appropriate, supplemented by professional aftermarket equipment when necessary.

The objective isn’t simply to connect a scan tool. It’s to have the information, equipment and technical capability required to complete the operation correctly.

It depends on the calibration procedure, but many static ADAS calibrations require a controlled indoor environment.

Camera and radar calibration procedures can have specific requirements for floor level, lighting, target placement, distances, vehicle setup and the area surrounding the vehicle. ECFT follows the applicable procedure and uses the required equipment to establish the calibration environment.

For windshield-camera target calibrations, plan on providing an appropriate indoor work area unless we’ve told you otherwise.

Call us before final assembly whenever possible.

Access requirements vary considerably by manufacturer and vehicle. Some calibration procedures require access to the sensor or mounting bracket, while others can be completed with the bumper cover installed.

Collision damage can also affect sensor brackets and mounting locations even when the sensor itself appears undamaged. A quick call to ECFT before final assembly can prevent unnecessary disassembly later.

Yes.

ECFT provides pre- and post-repair scanning to help repair facilities identify diagnostic trouble codes, damaged systems, programming requirements and calibration requirements associated with the repair.

Our goal is to give the shop useful information—not simply hand over a scan report full of codes. We can also help document necessary diagnostic, programming and calibration operations to support the repair file and insurance reimbursement process.

Many security-related operations require ECFT to verify vehicle ownership or authorization before work can begin.

Depending upon the operation, we may require vehicle owner or authorized-agent information, vehicle registration, driver’s license or other required identification, a completed authorization, and additional information required by the automaker or the NASTF Vehicle Security Professional process.

Have the required documentation ready before our technician arrives. Missing authorization or documentation may prevent us from performing the security-related operation.

Yes. ECFT works with insurance companies and repair facilities.

We help shops document necessary diagnostic, programming, calibration and electrical operations so the repair facility has the information needed to support reimbursement for properly performed work.

The repair facility remains responsible for its repair plan and insurance claim, but our documentation can help explain why specialized operations were necessary.

No. ECFT is a B2B service provider.

We provide mobile automotive technical services to professional automotive businesses, including collision centers, mechanical repair shops, transmission shops, dealerships, auto-glass companies and fleets.

We’re mobile because we come to the repair facility—not because we’re a consumer mobile-mechanic service.

ECFT provides mobile service throughout Eastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey and New Castle County, Delaware.

If you’re unsure whether your shop is within our service area, submit a service request with the shop address or call 610-389-4312 and we’ll confirm coverage.

The more information we have before dispatching a technician, the better prepared we can be for the first visit.

Provide the VIN, a description of the problem or requested operation, relevant diagnostic trouble codes, information about parts that have been replaced, and any available documentation related to previous diagnostic or repair work.

For security-related work, have all required ownership or authorization documentation ready before our technician arrives.

Our goal is simple: arrive prepared to finish the job.

We’re always interested in talking with exceptional automotive technicians.

If you’re an experienced technician with strong diagnostic ability, comfortable working independently and interested in specialized mobile diagnostics, programming, electrical work and ADAS, we’d like to hear from you.