Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get Your Ford
As-Built Data

Follow this comprehensive guide to obtain, parse, and utilize your Ford vehicle's configuration data

Step 1
Get Data
Step 2
Upload File
Step 3
Parse & View
Step 4
Use Codes
Step 1: Get Your As-Built Data

There are several ways to obtain your Ford vehicle's as-built configuration data

Method 1: Ford Official (Recommended)

1

Visit Ford's As-Built Portal

Go to motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt

2

Enter Your VIN

17-character Vehicle Identification Number

3

Complete Security Check

Solve CAPTCHA and submit request

4

Download XML File

Save the generated as-built data file

Method 2: Diagnostic Tools

Professional Tools:

  • • Ford IDS (Integrated Diagnostic Software)
  • • Ford FDRS (Ford Diagnostic & Repair System)
  • • Dealer-level diagnostic equipment

Enthusiast Tools:

  • • FORScan (Windows/Android)
  • • ELM327 OBD-II adapters
  • • Third-party diagnostic software

What Your As-Built File Looks Like

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<BCE_MODULE>
<VIN>1FTFW1ET5DFC12345</VIN>
<DATA LABEL="720-01-01">
<CODE>2C08</CODE>
<CODE>3864</CODE>
</DATA>
</BCE_MODULE>

Your file will contain hundreds of configuration entries for all vehicle modules

Step 2: Upload Your File

Use ABParse to analyze your as-built data

1

Go to Parser Tool

Click the "Start Parsing" button or navigate to /parser

2

Upload Your File

Drag & drop or click to select your .xml, .ab, or .txt file

3

Automatic Processing

Parser extracts VIN, modules, and configuration data

4

VIN Lookup

Automatic vehicle information retrieval via NHTSA database

Ready to Parse?

Upload your as-built file and see the magic happen

Step 3: Understanding Your Data

Learn how to read and interpret the parsed information

Vehicle Information Tab

View your vehicle's complete specifications including make, model, year, engine, and safety features.

Basic Info

  • • Make, Model, Year
  • • Trim Level & Body Style
  • • Manufacturing Location

Technical Specs

  • • Engine Configuration
  • • Horsepower & Fuel Type
  • • Safety Features

Modules Tab - The Main Event

Each module contains configuration data with Address and Instruction codes for programming.

Understanding the Table Format

ConfigurationAddressInstructionsAdditional
720-01-012C0838647864

Address Codes (Blue)

Memory locations where settings are stored. Use these with diagnostic tools to navigate to specific configurations.

Instruction Codes (Green)

The actual configuration values. These hex codes control how features behave and can be modified.

Navigation & Search Features

Global Search

Search across all modules for specific codes or configurations

Command Palette

Press ⌘K (Ctrl+K) for quick navigation to any module or data

Favorites System

Star important modules for quick access and filtering

Step 4: Using Your As-Built Codes

Practical applications for your configuration data

🔧 Module Replacement

When replacing ECUs or control modules:

  1. 1. Note original configuration codes
  2. 2. Install new module
  3. 3. Program with original as-built data
  4. 4. Verify all functions work correctly

✨ Feature Activation

Enable hidden or optional features:

  • • Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
  • • Auto-folding mirrors
  • • Remote start settings
  • • Lighting customizations

🔍 Diagnostics

Troubleshooting configuration issues:

  • • Compare current vs. factory settings
  • • Identify modified configurations
  • • Restore original settings
  • • Document changes for warranty

⚙️ Customization

Personalize vehicle behavior:

  • • Door lock/unlock preferences
  • • Lighting timing adjustments
  • • Climate control settings
  • • Audio system configurations

Required Tools & Software

Professional Level

  • Ford IDS: Official Ford diagnostic software
  • Ford FDRS: Newer Ford diagnostic platform
  • VCM II: Ford's diagnostic interface
  • J2534 Device: Professional programming tool

Enthusiast Level

  • FORScan: Popular third-party software
  • ELM327 Adapter: OBD-II interface device
  • OBDLink MX+: Professional OBD adapter
  • Laptop/Android: For running diagnostic software

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you understand the process, get your Ford's as-built data and start exploring your vehicle's configuration with ABParse