17 ESCAPE NO AUDIO

Replacing an audio control module on a Ford Escape

[@MichaelSmith-uj1ij]

Big Thanks for this info. I used your instruction to replace the radio in a 2013 Escape. VERY HELPFUL!! GOD BLESS!!

[@raincitywrench117]

Appreciate the feedback! Glad it worked out for you.

[@eteroo413]

Thank you so much!! My usb ports were not worked before but i followed your video until 3:40 and unplugged usb cable back side of display and plugged again. And finally it works!!

[@neilday6650]

This video helped a lot with replacing my dead ACM. A GARGANTUAN pain in the ass for me, but it worked, and I wouldn’t have even tried without the help you give here. And I must say-SCREW FORD!! Always something. Always. Never again. If I won a new Ford on The Price is Right, I’d drive to the nearest Toyota or Honda dealership and swing whatever deal I could.

[@raincitywrench117]

Cool, glad to help. The second part made me 😂

[@luvdawayshedoinit]

😂😂😂😂😂 MY SENTIMENTS EXACTLY!!!

[@steedrealestate]

I agree!!

[@0223Jeremy]

Toyota and Honda have the same problems. They just don’t whine about it lol they’re too loyal

[@jzjzjjz896]

Thanks for the video. Super helpful. What's the software you used to check and program the ACM?

[@raincitywrench117]

It's Ford factory IDS software

[@DS-bk3mc]

I pulled and replaced the 7.5 amp fuse in the footwell fuse box, and the sound came right back on.

[@madivegan3051]

Didn’t work for mine. Sigh

[@bolar9598]

Which fuse?!

[@ericgarcia7768]

What was the fuse number, please help

[@robertadams5645]

Can I ask the kind of screwdriver or drill needed? I have a 2016 Escape that has this issue. I get intimidated on the tools needed. Would a kitchen/butter knife be able to be used to remove the panel?

[@raincitywrench117]

Sorry about the response time. Here is my favorite trim tool:www.amazon.com/Metal-Magery-Sheet-Skin-Wedge/dp/B087ZV91PX/ref=asc_df_B08ZYXDJ2G/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=507830687971&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4013255982319131588&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1027669&hvtargid=pla-1285288813087&th=1 Here is a plastic set that works great also. A butter knife may work too. www.amazon.com/OTC-4489-Fastener-Molding-Removal/dp/B000I28MKU/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=otc+plastic+trim+tool+set&qid=1674416989&sr=8-5

[@sharonc8531]

After replacing the acm, did you have to reconnect your phone and redo any settings that you changed? I'm asking because I just paid for a new acm to be put in my Ford fusion but was surprised that my phone was still connected and even an old phone was still listed, and my bass and treble settings were still where I had them. Trying to figure out if they did not actually replace the acm. Thanks!

[@raincitywrench117]

The ACM drives the speakers and receives inputs from the antennas + operates speed compensating volume. I believe your phone data is stored in the APIM (sync) module. The audio control settings I think are stored in the FCIM (forward controls interface module) There are a lot of modules in these cars.

[@14samueld]

@@raincitywrench117 would that allow the speakers on the passenger front door not get any sound? We tried to wire a line out converter but i think the dude accidentally touched the amp output wire to the wire we were sending audio from(the front passenger speaker). It made a rumble sound on the passenger front speaker but now we aren’t getting any audio from that right front at all. I tested it with an older 6x9. All of the other speakers in car work

[@John419]

What I love about videos on fixing fords.. everyone comes to the comment section to cry about fords. Meanwhile, no issues with the ones in the driveway here. Except the one escape likes to have a dead radio every few years anymore.

[@grewal5983]

How much total cost this install?

[@michaelsarpong3227]

Hi, I got an issue with my ford 2017 radio, screen doesn’t come at all, use to but now screen doesn’t appear, also want to know if the modules are pre programmed

[@raincitywrench117]

If it's an Escape. The problem may be the APIM (sync module) or the FCDIM (front controls display/interface module) Before you do anything, need to have a network test done to see if all modules communicate and then see what codes are in what modules.

[@3613jeremy]

Those square plugs are alot easier when using needle nose pliers to squeeze and pull

[@rodneyallgire9075]

I would recommend Roberts Auto repair to fix your ACM. They are great to work with and 1 year warranty.

[@reyArturo_juega]

how much you paid for that?

[@rodneyallgire6864]

you would have to look them up and see. But great to work with and easy to install. @@reyArturo_juega

[@teamjohnson9960]

How can I remove the final 2 antenna cords if the clips broke when pushing down?

[@raincitywrench117]

I was worried about that on this one. The connectors are ridiculous. I can't say other then using a pick and digging out. Did you get them out?

[@MarkDaMan55]

So I dropped my 2016 ford escape off to the dealership this morning for a SYNC update and I called 30 minutes ago and the guy said something was wrong with my audio control module but I’ve had nothing happen with the radio or the screen itself since I got the car the only issue is that my update won’t install. Any idea what’s going on?

[@raincitywrench117]

Your dealer needs to read TSB 21-7088 if they haven't already. Here is one of the notes: NOTE: "If all normal WSM, TSB, SSM and/or GSB diagnostics have been performed, there may be a SYNC server issue preventing SYNC programming. If all above diagnostics, as well as all below diagnostics, have been performed, it may be necessary to contact the Ford Technical Assistance Center to restore the SYNC server information." There could be quite a number of issues that can programming problems like VCM not hard wired, bad USB cable, power supply not installed, poor internet connection, IDS not at current software version, etc. Possible causes are listed in the bulletin. Hope this helps

[@rodneyallgire9075]

Would you think the ACM caused the fuse to blow? My issue is i get a loud crackle in the speakers and then no sound. Seems to come back once it sets overnight. Thinking my ACM is going bad?

[@raincitywrench117]

That's what happened to this one. It popped the fuse.

[@rodneyallgire9075]

@@raincitywrench117 mine comes and goes. So far the fuse hasnt popped or it would be done until i replaced it. unless it can reset itself?

[@rodneyallgire9075]

Mine seems fixed. never popped fuse. loud crackle, lose sound. Sometimes comes back next day. Ebay AMC al better. 20 min job. Dealership wants $500 just for the module.

[@xaviersacta801]

Help no audio everything works (all features) sound is at 0 and radio balance all to the right. Ford expedition 2016 sync 3 system. Do you think my ACM is bad. Also if I change it what do I use to program it what software.

[@raincitywrench117]

Sounds like bad ACM. Will need Ford software to program it unless it says it is already programmed. The one in the video already had software on it. The first thing to do is with a compatible scanner, do a network test and see if the ACM will communicate.

[@loudieselsrb5610]

My radio had no gps signal no audio I couldn’t change radio stations or use Bluetooth I changed the ACM with a used one same part number it made the gps work radio and Bluetooth but volume is stuck at a certain level and I can’t change it the volume controls on the steering wheel and center dash don’t work and rear speakers don’t work do you think it needs to be programmed?

[@raincitywrench117]

There is a TSB that sounds similar to your issue: SSM 46418 2017 Escape/MKC - No Audio, Navigation Inoperative, Unable To Access Audio Features From All Controls With DTC U0184 Some 2017 MKC vehicles equipped with an instrument panel center mounted speaker and 2017 Escape vehicles with a Sony audio systems may exhibit no audio, navigation inoperative, inability to access audio features with all controls including steering wheel switches and voice commands with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U0184. If unable to communicate with the audio control module (ACM), remove the radio power fuse for 10 minutes to reset the ACM. Reprogram the ACM to the latest calibration using the Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) release 104.02 or higher. Make sure your Sync works when pressing the steering wheel button. If it doesn't then there may be a problem with the APIM module. Before doing anything, I would have all the modules scanned to see if and what codes are stored. That will then send you in the right direction.

[@kevinnguyen3281]

Hi Rain, What software do you programing the vehicle can you help how to get this software and how to program it?

[@raincitywrench117]

It is Ford factory IDS software. Unless you know someone with a ids subscription you will be stuck going to your local dealer. The last couple audio control modules came programmed so you may get lucky.

[@pastrychefaz]

​@Rain City Wrench where are you getting the remanufactered units from need one for my wife's 2016 escape

[@briantaylor9475]

You didn't remove the battery cable when working on an electrical component. Bad move, fella. Poor maintenance practice.

[@DiegoHaugh-sj3qb]

I have a 2015 ford f150, volume suddenly went away and “entertainment “view from sync has barely any response. I have no ability to turn up or down volume from bezel or steering wheel. Think this is just a simple acm repair job? Thank in advance !

[@raincitywrench117]

Most likely will be the ACM or APIM. Don't see any bulletins related to your problem. FCIM, FDIM, SCCM, media hub, microphone, etc all talk to the APIM. Your first step needs to be, have all modules scanned to see if/what codes are stored. U-communication codes related to APIM or ACM will lead you in the right direction.

[@antonwright1300]

where did you get the module? i need to purchase one. please and thank you.

[@raincitywrench117]

Work at a Ford dealer and got it through our parts department. It's a reman unit and preprogrammed.

[@peterp4319]

nice work as always. automotive electrical connectors are a pain.

[@raincitywrench117]

I thought those two small connectors would break for sure. When the plastic gets older, will be a different story.

[@hobbymagicstopmotion]

What's the name of the software to program the module?

[@raincitywrench117]

Ford IDS (Integrated Diagnostic System) This audio control module happened to come pre programmed.

[@ashleylopez9084]

So i have a 2017 ford escape & everything has worked perfectly fine up until my car battery died. The screen says audio off & none of the buttons work to turn it back on nor to turn the volume up. However, when i put a cd into the cd player all buttons, audio, & volume work i just cant skip music or change the radio station. Everything connects & seems to be good i think its just locked but i have no clue how to unlock it. Any idea on what to do?

[@Blancaamezcua103]

Go to settings and reset the system. Or check the fuses underneath the glove box.

[@user-lx3ri6fo4y]

I have the same problem as you solved it

[@user-lx3ri6fo4y]

How did you solve the problem, please tell me?

[@AB-nf7wf]

i'm having exactly the same problem. My ACM has a part number EB3T-19C107-DF, but I can only find it on the internet to buy ACM with the same reference, changing only the last letter as an example EB3T-19C107-DH. If I buy ACM with a different part number than mine, what would need to be done for it to work? I'm very happy if you can help me, I've been without sound in my car for 6 months and nothing solves...

[@raincitywrench117]

I don't know what the last letter change does if anything. You may want to give your local Ford dealer a call, give them your vin# & see what they want and if possible the current part#. These ACM's are preprogrammed remanufactured units with a core. At least this is something you can do yourself to save money. Just take your time and don't break the wire connectors.

[@AB-nf7wf]

@@raincitywrench117 I tried to replace my acm(part number EB3T-19C107-DF) with one with part number EB3T-19C107-DH. But as soon as I replaced it kept showing "entertainment unavailable" on the screen, as if you didn't have any acm there. I just did the plug and play swap, for this new acm to work would I have to have reprogrammed it with forscan to work?

[@raincitywrench117]

@@AB-nf7wf Yes. I would start by running a network test and see if there is communication with the ACM. If so it will probably have one of these codes: U201A:51 Control Module Main Calibration Data: Not Programmed U2100:00 Initial Configuration Not Complete: No Sub Type Information U2101:00 Control Module Configuration Incompatible: No Sub Type Information "This DTC sets due to incomplete or incorrect PMI procedures. CHECK the vehicle service history for recent service actions related to the ACM . If there have been recent service actions with the ACM , INSTALL as-built data from PTS , following the diagnostic scan tool instructions under Module Programming>As-Built." If network test has ACM as fail then it is probably bad.

[@apathy615]

Wheres the best place to order replacment for 2015 escape titanium?

[@raincitywrench117]

IMO, your local Ford dealer. Most likely will come pre-programmed like this one. It will be an exchange unit and have a warranty too.

[@Jxtasty]

Is there any way to do this without taking it to a dealer for the software upload?

[@raincitywrench117]

Have done a couple and they already had software loaded and worked fine right out of the box. If you get a Ford audio control module it's likely to work without programming.

[@Randomvideos-wz2mc]

Good job brother

[@raincitywrench117]

Thank you so much 😀

[@RileyGamino22]

How much did the customer pay after getting everything fixed?

[@raincitywrench117]

I think that was a 700 dollar repair. There also is a core on the old unit.

[@charlieschanel9203]

Hello, i replaced my acm with a matching part number minus the last letter. The ac. Works.as is should but there is no sound..is this something a dealer can program to fix or have i got another faulty acm? Thnx

[@raincitywrench117]

The one installed in the video came programmed. It could be the replacement unit in yours need configured which will require dealer software. Tell me what you are working on and I can enter into Ford's PTS application and check the symptoms chart for you.

[@charlieschanel9203]

@@raincitywrench117 hey appreciate that..its a 2014 f150 fx4 with the 8ninch screen, the ebay seller says the acm was tested and thinks it something else like a factory amp fuse with are all good or a setting! How often do these factory amps go out?

[@raincitywrench117]

@@charlieschanel9203 I haven't done one on an F150 yet. Seems like it's always the APIM that has problems. Here is what workshop manual says after replacement: "Download the ACM configuration information from the scan tool to the new ACM following the scan tool on screen instructions." At this point the pickup will need self test done and see if/what acm codes are stored and if it can even communicate which will require dealer software unfortunately.

[@charlieschanel9203]

@@raincitywrench117 its at the dealer now, they ran test and said the speakers are showing open circuit, they took a couple door panels off and said the door harness are rotted so that likely my problem,,i appreciate your help! Im.going to swap the harness out this weekend or try to solder it, ill post an update for anyone else going through the same thing.

[@raincitywrench117]

@@charlieschanel9203 Open circuit speakers? Weird. Haven't seen that before. Hope you get it fixed.

[@roujahbaby5556]

I took my ride to Ford dealership, they said that I have to take it back to where I got the aftermarket speakers.. but my radio sync , everything paired , shows bt no sound , the mute button won’t unmute. Ford says that the radio is fine that it’s the guys fault who installed my speakers , that I have to go back to that shop to have him connect it???? I don’t understand.. it was working well… couple months n nw no sound ahh 😱.

[@ronsellers5963]

I have a 2016 Escape the radio and audio stopped working. I looked at alot of videos was fixing to get elbow deep on it then i saw a video that said to do a hard reset. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and touch the negative cable to the positive cable for 15 seconds this lets the system reset. Easy as pie. Good luck.

[@raincitywrench117]

Yea, definitely. Battery disconnect can sometimes also fix the APIM module if voice commands, display, nav goes down.

[@joesmith5801]

Where can i buy a new ACM? I'm having the same problem!

[@raincitywrench117]

I suggest your local Ford dealer. It will be pre programmed and have warranty. They will want your old one because there is a core charge.

[@kevinhackethal2263]

I haven't done so yet but there is a place called automotive circuit solutions that refurbished them for 179 and that why you don't have to pay three hundred dollars for a new and pay a Ford dealership like five hundred dollars to program it. If you took it to dealership it would be minimum 1200 dollars

[@niteowl9733]

The dealership wants 1200 bucks to fix mine! The car doesn't even have 60k on it ! Any advice?

[@raincitywrench117]

These have to be programmed so Ford has you by the cahonies. The are sellers on eBay that may be able to fix you up for much cheaper. Here is one seller: www.ebay.com/itm/193606774518?hash=item2d13dceef6:g:RnwAAOSwfjFfJYK8 May be worth reaching out and asking what their process is and if your application will work depending on what you have.

[@niteowl9733]

@@raincitywrench117 if I'm not mistaken they need to be ordered with your Vin number. The manager at the service department is going to help me out I think. Hope.

[@raincitywrench117]

@@niteowl9733 That's right, you are correct. ACM's will come preprogrammed and you will need to return your core. Some APIM's come programmed but still have to initialize it to get the fancy ford logo to pop up on the screen. BCM, PCM, etc come blank. You can definitely save some money installing yourself.

[@laudanum669]

@@niteowl9733 I got quoted $900+ with no guarantee it wouldn't happen again. Ford knows this is a problem on several of their models and couldn't care less. Make sure you get a replacement ACM from the EXACT same year and Model as your vehicle or it most likely won't work.

[@rodneyallgire9075]

once you figure out the pinch points on the plugs they come out ez. I did all 4 of my plugs with little issues. I didnt have to remove the bracket to get to the plugs. Also i am blessed with little hands. LOL

[@raincitywrench117]

Funny! I have fat meats. 😂

[@michaelhiggins2135]

I have a 2015 edge… everything works, Bluetooth, radio, sync. But no volume. I’ve seen videos about the fuse. Didn’t work. I dunno what to do but I need music damn it

[@raincitywrench117]

I hear ya. I would first start by having all modules scanned to see if there is communication with the audio control module plus see if there is any trouble codes stored. Found service bulletin SSM 46129 that may address your concern: "Some 2013-2016 Fusion/Escape/MKT/Flex/MKS/Taurus, 2015-2016 MKZ/MKC/Edge and 2016 MKX vehicles may exhibit various radio concerns including: speaker static with key-off, no audio after vehicle is first started with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U0184, no volume control, or a stuck CD with no slot blockage. Prior to starting normal diagnosis for any of these conditions, verify the ACM is at the latest calibration using IDS version 102.03 or higher"

[@lionsn11]

Does Ford have to program it or do you work for ford?

[@raincitywrench117]

I work at a Ford dealership. This one actually came preprogrammed. PTS says they need programmed but not all do.

[@samyrodriguez5036]

I have audio everything works I just can’t control the volume it’s turned up but I can’t turn it down the control doesn’t even show up on my screen

[@raincitywrench117]

Had a 21 F150 the other day that had some segments missing and volume could only be controlled by the steering wheel button. It also could not be updated. The APIM module was bad. Installed a new module, initialized and it worked great. You need to try a master reset first and see if that fixes your problem. What do you own?

[@adolfoamoctezuma1978]

Yo desarme el módulo ACM y lo limpie con dieléctrico y realice pruebas y volvió a tener sonido la camioneta. Por si lo quieren intentar

[@shreader327]

Ive owned 3 Fords in my life. All serious pieces of shit... My 3rd one I own now. I swore up and down after my last one I'd never buy another one. I found 2015 escape Ecoboost with 81k Miles for $9,300 at a supposedly reputable Ford dealership. One year of owning it, it has had a transmission replacement. Head gasket repair. New torq converter. 3 recalls. The rotors were completely shot. New calipers because the original ones were defective.. it's leaking oil at the valves. It randomly loses power. And on the way to work today the stereo made a loud bang from the speakers (seriously thought something exploded in the car) and now the fucking sync radio doesn't work. I hope Ford company goes to the ground bankrupt. They're disgustingly over priced and won't even last the life of the loan.

[@raincitywrench117]

Oh Man, That's tough. Sorry to hear that. I didn't realize they had so many problems until I started working at a Ford dealership in 2019. The newer Explorers have many issues but Ford decided to roll them out anyway and make the dealerships fix them. Same thing with the Focus DSP6 transmissions that Ford eventually scrapped and had class action lawsuits on. The new Broncos have so many problems also. The only product I like from Ford is the Super Duty. They haven't screwed that up yet IMO.

[@RobbyMaQ]

"F@%ker Only Runs Downhill" 🤣 Less than impressed with our 2015 Escape Titanium. Pita to swap battery. Trans cable connector broke once already, rust on bottom of doors after about 3 years (garage kept) and now this acm unit failure.

[@trentdaddydolla647]

Well you ought to know that furd only puts effort into their f150 and mustang lol all the others are throw away cars

[@RobbyMaQ]

I should add that we've just now started to hear the rear differential fu@k up at 130k. Good times ☹️

[@stoodx8636]

I swapped it out for a new one but now my bass hits so much less even if I put the bass to max

[@raincitywrench117]

Unfortunately it sounds like you have corrupt or incorrect software in that module. Here is what Ford workshop manual says after install: "Download the ACM configuration information from the scan tool to the new ACM following the scan tool on screen instructions." It looks like you will need to perform programmable module installation on the audio control module with latest software. This can only be done with factory Ford IDS software. So you will need to call your local dealer and see what they will charge you to program the module. They'll probably want a couple hundred bucks. There is no guarantee but if nothing else has been done and all is connected up correctly this will probably solve your issue.