Ford Perimeter Plus Security System

[Jim Lewis]

Since the "advanced" intrusion/inclination sensor system had to be removed from my 2023 Lightning, I thought I'd at least add the basic VSS (Vehicle Security System) module (ML3Z19A361A ) for the Ford Perimeter Plus Security System. Just installing the VSS module without the other options adds basic shock detection.

I have searched the forum and don't see anyone else discussing this option. But I figured since many forum members have owned tons of F-150s in the past, some folks may have had the same sensor in past vehicles and could comment on the installation and usefulness or not of the VSS device.

For starters, the accessories.ford.com site lists the basic module by my VIN # as working in my 2023 F-150 Lightning ER, although several other 3rd-party Ford parts sites say the item doesn't fit my vehicle!

Then, I asked my dealer Parts Department about labor charges for installing the module. I was told one hour for installation and one hour for "programming" the module. The Ford Parts site only quotes a $60 charge for dealer installation. And several YouTube videos and forum posts on other F-150 sites indicate that it certainly takes less than an hour to install, and if you're a whiz mechanic, it can be done in 20 to 30 minutes. The following guy is an ace mechanic. He installs the VSS and replaces all the paneling in about 20 minutes (it's a 2021 ICE F-150, IIRC).



In the above video, the mechanic had to remove the center AC control panel to get at the electronics. In a 2013 F-150, the module really is Plug 'N Play and just plugs into the OBDII port!

For my Lightning, it seems the installation will be more like the first YouTube video. The following Ford instruction sheet says the enhanced central gateway (ECG) connection point is located under the Front Display Interface Module, behind the sync module. I presume that means they'll be removing my Sync panel, etc. 2023_RMST_Common_I-sheet_9-15-22_FINAL.pdf (fordservicecontent.com) (see the top of page 4)

Various online posts say that the shock sensitivity of the VSS is not great if the device is bundled into harness wiring. The best place to put the shock sensor is on a metal plate under the steering wheel or on a metal support framework but in a way that the sensitivity dial should still be accessible.

Regarding programming, there seem to be a few simple steps to go into LEARN mode and integrate the device into the truck's security system. I don't need the remote start option or the optional LED arm status indicator, which reduces the complexity of activating the system. (see bottom of page 8 in the linked installation instructions).

Anyone else have experience with the VSS?

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[Jim Lewis]

Went to another dealer. The service department rep said the official Ford service manual says it's 2.4 labor hours just to remove the Sync screen in a Lariat ER truck to get to the ECG module. This second dealer wants to charge me $380 to $420 to install the Perimeter Plus VSS shock sensor. And the service rep said the cable is not long enough to install the module in a readily accessible place to adjust the sensitivity after everything relative to the center console is put back in place. The rep said he had to account for the time it would take his service tech to read and decipher 15 pages of service manual illustrations appropriate to the Lightning installation, even though the tech was familiar with installing electronics in older F-150 ICE vehicles. The rep felt that the $60 installation charge that Accessories. Ford.com charged for a dealer installation is based on earlier model Fords, particularly from the day when the VSS module could plug in directly to a modified OBDII port, and that Ford has not correspondingly updated installation charges at the Accessories site to take into account the different electric configuration of the Lightning. The service rep said he'd consult with FMC about getting some sort of extension that would allow the shock module, after connecting to the ECG, to be mounted in a more accessible place.

@Ford Motor Company. I tried contacting both Accessories.Ford.com support and general Ford Customer Relations to get FMC's take on how much labor it should take on a 2023 Lightning ER to install the VSS. The first-line reps at both Ford contact points said there was no one at Ford that they could put me in touch with to answer that question. I pointed out that someone at Ford generates the by-the-book labor figures that go into Ford Service Manuals and are used to determine the dealer installation charges that FMC charges on the accessories/parts site. The customer service rep said that "only the engineering department determines required labor hours, and they couldn't put a customer in contact with them. Contact my dealer." I asked for a dependable dealer in the Dearborn area that Ford trusted to give me an independent labor estimate. Called that dealer's service department, got to leave a message, and no one's called me back so far.

 

[Jim Lewis]

End of Shock Sensor Story (for now): So I waited for cooler weather to have the shock sensor installed so my truck wouldn't end up sitting out in a 130- to 140-degree F dealer parking lot in the middle of the summer in San Antonio, TX. In the meantime, the original SA I consulted had left for parts unknown. Decided to go back to the dealer who sold me my truck. The electronics tech who looked at the Ford instructions today felt the shock sensor install wasn't worth the effort and the risk involved in disassembling and reassembling the center console. In particular, if any electronic problem cropped up with future updates and, as it was put to me, the truck lit up like a Christmas tree (lights flashing, coming on when they shouldn't, etc.), they'd have to disassemble the whole dash again to remove the part, etc.). So I agreed to forget the idea, even though the tech agreed with me that Ford says the part is compatible with my VIN #. Too bad Ford can't offer an updated version of the shock sensor that can be plugged into the OBDII port and fitted under the steering wheel, the way the part was initially designed to be installed for ICE vehicles. Still miffed, too, that the intrusion sensor was removed from 2023 Lightnings.

 

[ScubaSteve_TheReal]

Old thread I realize, but still relevant. So after owning two 2023 models with this feature deleted, the lack of restoring this option just plain sucks.
If they managed to swap out my steering column to give me a heated steering wheel then why not this option…. Oh well….

 

[astrand1]

Old thread I realize, but still relevant. So after owning two 2023 models with this feature deleted, the lack of restoring this option just plain sucks.
If they managed to swap out my steering column to give me a heated steering wheel then why not this option…. Oh well….

Bro I added back the advanced security pack into my 23 lariat in about 15 min. Super easy. The part itself is like $35 if I remember correctly. Then you just pop off the center upper console from the roof and there should be a blue dummy box that you take out put the new one in and then there is some forscan work and done.

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