Pre Programmed ECM/PCM
Good evening all, I am new to this forum and wanted to ask a question regarding buying pre-programmed control modules. Currently there are a few vendors that are offering pre-programmed modules and the cost is much cheaper than purchasing a new control unit and then having it programmed. Any lessons learned or feedback from others who have purchased pre-programmed units. Any other considerations that I should keep in mind when choosing one over the other. Thanks in advance!
Tom, there are many plug-in-play modules offered. Whether the module is programmed on a bench or in the vehicle makes no difference. The problem with it is the same issues you may come up against programming a module in-vehicle. First is programming the VIN properly and using the correct program for the application and secondly, is the source actually factory or a rewritten clone type of…
I buy most all from Carquest and have never had a problem. Sometimes they are exchange sometimes Carquest will have to send in. The few that need programming say from a salvage yard if not available from Carquest I will then send to the Dealer after installing.I have also bought several from "The Parts House"out of Jacksonville Florida a warehouse for most all Manufactures. They have a…
I used to buy Pre-programmed and if costly reman units. All was well but a few times when I was told the unit was on the shelf and would be programmed and shipped within 48hrs it didn't show for 2 weeks. Then there is the problem with getting a bad reman unit every once in a while. That being said I program myself now and have built a new customer base just or that. I only do domestic and have…
George may I ask what year range of vehicles you normally service?
Caleb...... I would say the majority are from 2000 to 2010 all makes and models....I do not do any hybrids . We do verify computers/modules failures from a few garages as a second opinion when they are not sure of their diagnostics.
Gotcha that makes sense on how you are able to use those modules. Most everything we work on is …
Tom, Steven is correct. Yes you can use "plug and play" modules. However its always hit and miss. No matter what anyone says even if you do happen to get one programmed correctly and with the correct VIN there are still a variety of adaptations,learns,immobilizer, etc that have to be done depending on the application. My advice, go new OE modules everytime with OE tools to program and dont look…
Yup, go OE tools to program and don''t look back. There is always limitations with the 2534. Can't have every OE tool so the Cardaq Plus 3 seemed the best J box to have on hand with 5 can channels
Many OE tools will not allow you to install used modules. Right now it is becoming a legal and legislative battle between who actually owns the car and the salvage useful parts.
That's right, Some OEMs warn against used parts, don't matter to me. Cars come in on the hook to be fixed after a body shop puts them back together and so be it if it needs to have a new part installed. Still can't go wrong with OE equipment. J box is hit and miss.
Tom, Bench flashing is something that I do in my business. Sometimes due to an aftermarket radio or alarm installed in a GM full size truck with the Class II data BUS system (installers almost always tap into the Data BUS and it causes issues with programming). Unfortunately there is a lot of misconception, especially on Fords. A new, reman or used PCM for Ford can have more than 36…