Things are constantly changing in the automotive world and will continue to do so at an ever increasing rate. 30 years ago, we started to see "Software" become something technicians had to deal with. This was pretty much limited to Engine Control Modules due to Emission Regulations and the need to change operating characteristics without replacing the entire module.
Once that platform was instituted allowing software changes via the diagnostic port, manufacturers started rolling out other control units that could be updated via software in the workshop environment. Modern cars today have 30-60 control units installed in the vehicle that can be update via diagnostic port.
Recently we replaced the Power Steering Gear in a Volvo V90 (late model, SPA Platform). The SPA Platform uses Ethernet Technology through the 16-pin diagnostic connector, known as Diagnostic over Internet Protocol (DoIP).
After the Steering Gear replacement and aligning the Vehicle to factory specs, the original fault of "no steering" was corrected. However, a message on the Instrument Cluster remained: Power Steering Fault, pull over Safely". This is because the Steering Gear is shipped without software for this vehicle. Each vehicle is assigned VIN specific software that allows the component to function to the specifics needs of the vehicle installed.
To achieve this, we have to connect our vehicle to Volvo Headquarters via the VIDA Diagnostic Program. Since this vehicle also uses DoIP, we need the specialized cable to it can communicate through our laptop. Once connected, we can find and download the specific software from Volvo and then the message is gone!
