With more features rolling out that utilize Fiat Chrysler’s PROXI Coding we figured it was about time to provide a quick FAQ and some information about PROXI. Without further delay let’s dive into the world of PROXI!
What is PROXI Coding?
PROXI Coding is a type of configuration that allows the manufacturer to change software configuration options in a given control module instead of producing a new control module with a new part number for each type of configuration option present on that vehicle. This essentially provides the automaker with a large cost savings measure for the manufacturing process. PROXI also provides a system by which control modules must all maintain an identical copy of configuration values for correct operation. Any mismatch of PROXI codes can lead to DTCs, or situations that are unsafe to operate a vehicle.
Why is PROXI Coding Important?
From a technician’s perspective PROXI Coding will be a very important aspect of servicing vehicles equipped with it as the following scenarios would all require PROXI Coding:
-Replacing electronic control modules
-Coding modules to enable new or hidden features
-Retrofitting new modules to a vehicle to enable their full functionality(IE, upgrading your instrument cluster)
Failing to do PROXI Coding in any of the above scenarios can lead to vehicles losing functionality, being unable to drive, or unsafe to drive. This means knowing how to perform PROXI Coding is going to be a very important skill to any technician.
What vehicles have PROXI Coding?
In short, a lot. However when it comes to the North American market we can 2 distinct types of PROXI-enabled vehicles which we’ve described with the terms Generation 1 and Generation 2. Generation 1 PROXI vehicles(such as the 2014-2023 Jeep Cherokee, 2014-2017 Chrysler 200, 2011-2016 Dodge Dart) generally have PROXI Coding primarily on core modules in the vehicle such as Instrument Cluster, Body Control Module, Engine Control Module, Transmission Control Module and a few more. Generation 2 PROXI vehicles(Such as 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2022-2023 Jeep Wagoneer and 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer) have PROXI Coding stored in every electronic control module in the vehicle. This leads to a situation with greater potential flexibility for configuration on Generation 2 PROXI vehicles, but also some more difficulty in making modifications to the PROXI.
What is a PROXI Alignment? And how can I tell when I need to perform one?
A PROXI Alignment is the term for synchronizing the PROXI Coding data across all modules in a vehicle. When you make adjustments to PROXI Coding generally those changes are only made to the Body Control Module and then synced to other modules from there with a PROXI Alignment. Any adjustments to PROXI require this procedure to be performed. Failing to perform a PROXI Alignment may result in DTCs in various modules, warning indicators on the display screen of all types(Check Engine, ABS, Collision Warnings, etc), the vehicle not operating correctly such as shifting into gear hard, or other vehicle systems not working correctly. Therefore it is extremely important to perform a PROXI Alignment after making any modifications to PROXI Coding at all.
Can VehicleLink Perform PROXI Alignments?
At this stage we are currently working on resolving issues surrounding VehicleLink’s functionality with Generation 1 PROXI Alignments recommend using this functionality at your own risk at this time. VehicleLink is also not currently capable of performing Generation 2 PROXI Alignments and due to new security measures present in Generation 2 PROXI vehicles it is unlikely that VehicleLink will ever be able to perform this procedure and instead we recommend using the FCA dealer tool WiTech2 to complete the procedure.
My warning indicators remain on after performing a PROXI Alignment. What should I do?
If your warning indicators remain on even after performing a PROXI Alignment then we recommend cycling the ignition 3 times from OFF to ON and then allowing the vehicle to correctly go to sleep by shutting the ignition off, disconnecting VehicleLink from the OBD port, closing all doors and then locking them with the key fob and leaving the vehicle uninterrupted for 30 minutes. If after waiting 30 minutes your vehicle is still showing signs of needing a PROXI Alignment, then please attempt to align the vehicle again. If it fails again please contact VehicleLink support.
What if I have more questions about PROXI?
Then feel free to reach out to VehicleLink support! We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have and we’ll work on adding the most common questions that people have to this article to ensure this article remains a useful resource.