Can I replace my PCM with a used one?
Can I replace my PCM with a used one?
The PCM uses software to control the systems in the vehicle. But if you purchased a used PCM as a replacement (usually from a vehicle that was totaled in an accident), you will need to have it reprogrammed for it to be able to work with your vehicle.
What happens when you replace the PCM in a car?
After replacing the PCM, the engine may crank and even fire initially, but die almost immediately. Certain Ford vehicles incorporate the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS). This security feature immobilizes the vehicle by disabling the fuel pump, injectors and possibly the starter, until the ignition key relearn is performed on the car.
Can you swap in a used PCM, ECM or module?
Can you swap in a used PCM, ECM, or module from a junkyard? The short answer is NO, you cannot swap in a used PCM, ECM or module from a junkyard. Even if the part number on the used PCM, ECM or module is exactly the same, that doesn’t mean it’s programmed properly.
Can a PCM be programmed to the VIN code?
Even if the part number on the used PCM, ECM or module is exactly the same, that doesn’t mean it’s programmed properly. On most late model cars and trucks, the PCM, ECM, or module MUST be programmed to your vehicle’s VIN code and build code.
Where can I find the replacement part number on my PCM?
Most supplier’s catalogs list replacement PCMs both ways. So if in doubt, always refer to the OEM number on the PCM and look it up in the suppliers cross reference index to find their replacement part number. The calibration chip and PROM contains the programming instructions for the vehicle application.
After replacing the PCM, the engine may crank and even fire initially, but die almost immediately. Certain Ford vehicles incorporate the Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS). This security feature immobilizes the vehicle by disabling the fuel pump, injectors and possibly the starter, until the ignition key relearn is performed on the car.
Can you swap in a used PCM, ECM, or module from a junkyard? The short answer is NO, you cannot swap in a used PCM, ECM or module from a junkyard. Even if the part number on the used PCM, ECM or module is exactly the same, that doesn’t mean it’s programmed properly.
Even if the part number on the used PCM, ECM or module is exactly the same, that doesn’t mean it’s programmed properly. On most late model cars and trucks, the PCM, ECM, or module MUST be programmed to your vehicle’s VIN code and build code.
Most supplier’s catalogs list replacement PCMs both ways. So if in doubt, always refer to the OEM number on the PCM and look it up in the suppliers cross reference index to find their replacement part number. The calibration chip and PROM contains the programming instructions for the vehicle application.
