1999 Accord ECU - Flash/Program

[mcole1973]

I've been having stalling/hesitation issues for a while. Left the car with a tech for 2 weeks at ~100k miles and after trying everything, they could not diagnose the issue. Best thing they said at the time was replace ECU. Now at 170k, I'm getting CYP ODB code (1381) and based on net readings, believe I could be getting faulty codes due to a screwed up ECU.

I can get one for $100 on Ebay. But, does the ECU need to be flashed/programmed at the dealer before I can install it? If so, can I just take them the ECU or do I have to have them install and program it? Trying to save cash and troubleshoot this one myself.....

Thanks.

[02 accord]

After I did my auto->stick swap, I drove to the dealer on the auto ecu, and swapped the plugs to the manual one so they could program the immobilizer. I had one ECU mounted and the other laying on the floor in front of the passenger seat. The guy programming it didn't mind. Do that to get it programmed, and you can mount it later on. It will save the programmed keys even if you disconnect it from power.

Call around and find the best price. I did and was told anywhere from $30 to $100 to program it.

[GhostAccord]

There are some locksmiths that are able to do this now as well, you don't have to go to the dealership.

[timpletcher]

Originally Posted by 02 accord

After I did my auto->stick swap, I drove to the dealer on the auto ecu, and swapped the plugs to the manual one so they could program the immobilizer. I had one ECU mounted and the other laying on the floor in front of the passenger seat. The guy programming it didn't mind. Do that to get it programmed, and you can mount it later on. It will save the programmed keys even if you disconnect it from power.

Call around and find the best price. I did and was told anywhere from $30 to $100 to program it.

I have a 2002 Accord that looks identical to yours, 4door, 4cyl, Ex model. The car was in a flood and I am working on replacing some electrical components including the ECU... I was told, however, that my ECU wouldn't need to be programmed... but if your specs match mine then they are wrong?

I bought a new ECU and installed it but now the car wont start. Turns over no problem... replace it with the old ECU and runs again...
ECU needs flashed / programmed?

[02 accord]

Yeah, the dealer needs to program the new ecu to work with your keys. Otherwise, the car won't start, as you already found out.