Ford Group

Summary

• Brands Covered: Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
• Tools: VCMM, VCM3, VCM Lite or J2534 Pass Thru Device ( OLD Devices - Rotunda VCM, Bosch VCM II )
• Vehicle Coverage: 1996 - Current
• Functionality: Diagnostics, Security Access, Module Programming, Wiring Diagrams, Full Technical Data, Service Data Upload, & Oscilloscope Functionality.

Covered Brands

• Ford
• Lincoln
• Mercury

• IDS Software was also adopted and used by Mazda, Jaguar/ Land Rover and Aston Martin

Functionality

• Diagnostics
• Guided Diagnostics
• Security Access
• Module Programming
• Wiring Diagrams
• Full Technical Data
• Service Data Upload
• Service Data Write to Vehicle
• Key Reading
• Barcode Scanning
• Oscilloscope Functionality

Vehicle Age Coverage

• Ford Ka – 1997 – 2021
• Ford Focus 1999 – 2025
• Ford Mondeo 2000 – 2022
• Ford Transit 2000 to Current
• Ford Transit Connect 2002 to current
• Ford Fiesta 2002 – 2023
• Ford Fusion 2002 – 2012 ( US Fusion 2006 – 2020 )
• Ford C Max 2003 – 2019
• Ford Galaxy 1997 – 2023
• Ford S Max 2006 – 2023
• Ford Ranger 2006 to Current
• Ford Kuga 2008 to Current
• Ford B Max 2012 – 2017
• Ford EcoSport 2013 – 2023
• Ford Edge 2016 – 2025
• Ford Mustang 2019 to Current
• Ford Explorer 2020 to Current
• Ford Mustang Mach-E 2021 to Current
• Ford Puma 1998 to Current
• Ford Cougar 1996 – 2002
• Ford Capri 2024 to Current
• Ford Bronco 2021 to Current
• Ford Escape 2020 to Current
• Ford Expedition 2018 to Current
• Ford F150 1997 to Current
• Lincoln Navigator 1997 to Current
• Lincoln Aviator 2002 to Current
• Lincoln Corsair 2019 to Current
• Lincoln Nautilus 2019 to Current
• Lincoln MKZ 2007 to Current

Pass-Thru Support

FDRS works fully with Pass-Thru. IDS does not, so if you’re working on an IDS vehicle you’ll need to use FJDS instead. Just note, FJDS only allows module reprogramming on European and US models built up to 2018.

Pass-Thru Score: 7 out of 10

Recommended Computer

The manufacturer recommends using a laptop, specifically the Dell Rugged Latitude 5430 Laptop. Make sure your laptop meets these minimum specifications:

• Operating System: Windows 10 64bit or Newer
• Storage: 500GB SSD
• Processor: i5 Gen 10 or equivalent processor
• RAM: 16GB
• LAN Ports: A Dual LAN port is preferred, this will allow you to connect to the VCI and be on a LAN network.
• USB Ports: 2 x USB 3.1 Gen1 or Gen2

• DELL Latitude 5430 Rugged Laptop

  £2799 ex. VAT

Geographical Usage

Before purchasing, consider where the tools will be used. Some regions may require additional permissions or local approvals: 

• Western Europe
• Eastern Europe & Russia
• North America
• South America
• Middle East
• Northern Africa
• Subsaharan Africa
• Australia / Oceania
• Asia Pacific

Registration Requirements

To use Ford tools fully, especially for security-related functions such as programming keys or modules, you’ll need to meet certain registration and compliance criteria. These vary slightly depending on your location, but the following are commonly required:

1. 1. SERMI Certification
2. 2. NASTF Registration
3. 3. VAT Registered
4. 4. No Trademark infringement

Additional Resources: SERMI and NASTF (for the US and AUS regions).

Below is a list of countries that have obtained SERMI approval:

Note: If you’re operating in or serving customers in any of these countries, SERMI approval may be mandatory to access certain OEM diagnostic functions. 

Cost and Support

• Cost Per Hour: £15.79
• Ease of Use: 7/10
• Training Requirements: 6/10

Updates and Technical Support

IDS and FDRS updates are generally released every 2–3 weeks. Updating takes 1–1.5 hours if both IDS and FDRS are required, or up to 2 hours if new firmware is released, it is the first install, or hardware has been upgraded. Ford does not require users to run the latest software version, but it is recommended when working on newer vehicles. Ford Motor Company also provides support from their UK offices at £1.60 per minute, which must be purchased in advance via the Service Info portal.

• Updates Per Month1-2
• Time taken1-2 hours
• Latest RequiredNo

Technical Support Options 

• Dealer Tool Support Subscription – £99/month 
  Includes update assistance, remote guidance, and system checks 

• VTS (Vehicle Technical Support) Contract – £125/month 
  Designed for ALLMAKES workshops needing real-time diagnostic support and repair advice 

• Combined Support Bundle – £205/month 
  Get both subscriptions at a reduced rate for complete coverage 

Note: Support contracts are strongly recommended for users managing multiple systems or unfamiliar with Ford diagnostic environments. 

Additional Products

Recommended Essentials 

If you’re a Ford specialist workshop or aiming to deliver a dealer-level experience, we strongly recommend the following:

• BSU for programming. Ford recommend a Traction BSU2 50amp Unit.
• 2D Bar Code Scanner for use with the XMB-9640 Battery Balancer – New EV Vehicles

Optional Add-ons 

While not required, these products can help streamline your workflow: 

• Docking Station – For improved connectivity and ease of use with your chosen laptop or tablet 

• Diagnostic Workstation Trolley – Keeps your tools mobile and organised in a workshop environment 

Footnote

A few key things to keep in mind: 

• Ford UK and Europe have announced that the use of NON UK & European Licences will see customers accounts suspended and repeated violations will result in permanent deletion of the account.

• Training and support are critical. Dealer diagnostic tools offer excellent return on investment—but only when the user is properly trained. Software can change daily, and without regular updates, tools will stop functioning. That’s why Maverick’s helpdesk is here to support you: “You fix the cars, we do the IT.” 

• Important Limitation: Dealer diagnostic tools are not intended for reprogramming second-hand modules or vehicle remapping. These actions are considered a breach of global vehicle security and emissions regulations. 

• Final Thought: Choosing the right diagnostic tool and software is key to efficient maintenance and repair. Assess your needs carefully and select a setup that fits both your workshop and your budget.