ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

I just had the CEL come on this morning. I had the codes checked, P1607 (ECM circuit failure) & P1259 (VTEC system malfunction). I'm guessing the P1259 comes from the ECM failing.

I've called around and a new ECM is about $825. I can get a used/salvage one for about $125. Shouldn't be too hard to swap. Just need to pull the center console. Do I need to reprogram it? I found one on eBay that should fit.

I know I need one for an AT, but I don't know if I can just pull one from an LX or EX and drop it in my SE.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

go with the used one,
u wont need to reprogram it...
just plug n the new/used one

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

With a 2000? You have a immobilizer if I'm not mistaken - which would require the ECU to be reprogrammed.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

Yeah, it does have an immobilizer so it will need to be reprogrammed. I'm just not sure how picky I have to be when finding a replacement. Can I pull one from an LX? EX? Etc?

Mine's a 4cyl, 2.3 VTEC ULEV, AT, w/AC, no California emissions. But I'm not sure if I can just pull one from any 2.3 VTEC with an AT. I'm hoping that I can, just go in and have it reprogrammed, and drop it in myself.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

You need to get an ECU for a 98-02 automatic F23A4, 2.3L VTEC ULEV. A regular 2.3L VTEC will not work properly with the ULEV sensors.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

Yup, I figured that would be the case, but I just wanted to make sure.

Thanks, Ghost.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

np :beer:

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

I got a new ecm for my car, exact replacement. I talked to the dealer, and they'll reprogram it for me for $100, but they said they need the car to do it. That doesn't make a lot of sense to me.

Anyone have a similar situation? How did they reprogram the ecm?

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

I believe they need the VIN and can go by that.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

OK, that makes sense. They probably code the VIN into the ECM. I'm sure it has something to do with making sure the car isn't stolen or something.

Re: ECM failure - can I swap & do I need to reprogram?
 

Hi I have the same problem and im tryin to avoid 1000 dollars for a ecu replacement and i was trying to see if i can buy one then take it in to get it done and pay for labor and all that.
Mine is 01 honda accord lx 2.3 vtec engine california emissions . with a 37820 PAA L75 ecu part number .
Can anyone help me ? Stuggling to get my car back on the road before next inspection !