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What is the Ford diagnosis and repair system?

The Ford Diagnosis and Repair System is a comprehensive suite of tools and technologies developed by Ford Motor Company to simplify the diagnosis and repair of their vehicles. This innovative system aims to provide a seamless and efficient experience for both Ford technicians and vehicle owners, ensuring that maintenance and repairs are carried out quickly and accurately.


Key Components of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System


The Ford Diagnosis and Repair System consists of several interconnected components that work together to enhance the diagnostic and repair process:



  • Diagnostic Scanners: Ford's advanced diagnostic scanners can quickly identify and diagnose issues within a vehicle's electronic systems, providing technicians with detailed information to guide the repair process.

  • Repair Procedures: The system includes detailed, step-by-step repair procedures for a wide range of vehicle components, ensuring that technicians have the necessary information to perform repairs efficiently and effectively.

  • Parts Lookup: The system integrates with Ford's parts inventory, allowing technicians to quickly identify and order the correct replacement parts for a specific vehicle and repair task.

  • Technical Service Bulletins: The system provides access to the latest technical service bulletins from Ford, which inform technicians about known issues and recommended solutions, helping to ensure that repairs are performed correctly the first time.

  • Training and Support: Ford offers comprehensive training programs and technical support to ensure that its technicians are well-equipped to utilize the Diagnosis and Repair System effectively.


By integrating these components, the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System streamlines the entire maintenance and repair process, reducing the time and effort required to diagnose and fix issues, while also improving the overall quality and consistency of the work performed.


Benefits of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System


The Ford Diagnosis and Repair System offers several key benefits to both Ford technicians and vehicle owners:



  • Faster Diagnosis and Repair: The system's advanced diagnostic capabilities and comprehensive repair procedures help technicians identify and address issues more quickly, reducing the time required for vehicle maintenance and repairs.

  • Improved Accuracy: By providing detailed information and step-by-step guidance, the system helps to ensure that repairs are performed correctly, reducing the likelihood of repeat visits or additional issues arising.

  • Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: The streamlined diagnostic and repair process, combined with the improved quality of work, helps to enhance the overall customer experience and build trust in the Ford brand.

  • Cost Savings: The efficiency and accuracy of the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System can lead to cost savings for both Ford dealerships and vehicle owners, as fewer resources are required to diagnose and address issues.


Overall, the Ford Diagnosis and Repair System represents a significant advancement in the automotive maintenance and repair industry, demonstrating Ford's commitment to providing its customers with a seamless and reliable ownership experience.

What is Ford WDS?


WDS 2000 is Fords latest World Diagnostic System released in 1996 for all OBD2 equipped vehicles. It has replaced the earlier FDS2000. It is a lap-top computer which receives a diagnostic routine from a docking station and is then carried to the Ford model and plugged into the diagnostic interface.



What diagnostic program does Ford use?


VCM RETAIL. Integated Diagnostic Software (IDS) - The factory Ford Motor Company vehicle diagnostic software provides complete dealership level vehicle diagnostic coverage for all 1996 to present Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.



What is the difference between Ford IDs and FDRs?


FDRS software is used to diagnose and repair Ford vehicles, while IDS software is the main diagnostic tool used by Ford technicians. FDRS software also includes repair information and diagnostic tools that are not available in IDS software.



What operating system does Ford use?


Ford's $395 Sync is essentially a small computer running the Microsoft Auto operating system that wirelessly integrates all of your mobile gadgets.



How much does Ford charge for diagnostics?


Most expensive diagnostic fee at a dealership by brand

BrandGeneral Diagnostic Fee (estimated)
Buick$88 to $111
Cadillac$88 to $111
Chevrolet$88 to $111
Ford$88 to $111



Is Ford IDs worth it?


However, the most valuable function the IDS performs is to seamlessly reflash any component of the vehicle with rewritable software. Using the vehicle's VIN, the software connects to Ford's corporate server. It determines the latest software level and offers to update the vehicle for you.



How much should a full car diagnostic cost?


Car diagnostic test prices

StateLabor rateCar repair cost
Florida$142.74$253.55
Texas$145.86$251.67
Georgia$145.34$262.37
California$144.56$268.48



What does APIM mean at Ford?


Accessory Protocol Interface Module
Ford Sync, Accessory Protocol Interface Module.



How long does a Ford diagnostic test take?


A standard car diagnostic test will take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. The time will vary depending on what problems were presented as a reason for the diagnostic and the severity of the problems found. If the issue is complex, a diagnostic test could take as much time as two to four hours.



When did Ford switch to FDRs?


FDRS is the software Ford Dealerships use for Programming and Diagnosis on all Fords (specifically 2018+). I am using the VXDIAG VCXNANO OBD2 ADAPTER for FORD. It is $125 on Amazon. You must install VX MANAGER to install the driver for this OBD2 ADAPTER so it works for FDRS.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.