AutoCodes – Mercury – P1639 Mercury

P1639 Mercury Code - Vehicle ID Block Corrupted or Not Programmed

Quick Answer

Configurable modules accommodate a variety of vehicle options, eliminating the need for many unique modules for one vehicle line. Common causes include Reprogram Module ("Flashing"), New Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Needs programming, Incorrect Vehicle Identification (VID) configuration. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P1639 Mercury indicates Vehicle ID Block Corrupted or Not Programmed.
Common causes: Common causes include Reprogram Module ("Flashing"), New Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Needs programming, Incorrect Vehicle Identification (VID) configuration.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 8,435

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 01, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P1639 Mercury Description

Configurable modules accommodate a variety of vehicle options, eliminating the need for many unique modules for one vehicle line. These modules must be configured when replaced as part of a repair procedure. Configurable modules should not be exchanged between vehicles since the settings are unique to each vehicle. Failure to configure a new module may result in improper operation.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates that the Vehicle Identification (VID) block is not programmed or is corrupt.

OBDII Code P1639 Mercury - Vehicle ID Block Corrupted or Not Programmed - AutoCodes.com — P1639 Mercury Code - Vehicle ID Block Corrupted or Not Programmed

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1639 Mercury?

Reprogram Module ("Flashing")
New Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Needs programming
Incorrect Vehicle Identification (VID) configuration

How to Fix the DTC P1639 Mercury?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

After a new Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has been installed, the Vehicle Identification (VID) block has to be programmed to the PCM.

There is a Factory Service Bulletin for the 2002 Mercury Mountaineer:
2002 Mercury Mountaineer Factory Service Bulletin OBDII Code P1639

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1639 Mercury code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.