I have a 2001 Honda Prelude, Automatic with VTEC, and I am looking to replace the ECU with a '96 or older model ECU to get rid of the Immobilizer. My original computer fried and instead of dealing with the Immobilizer since I don't have the original infamous 'Red Key', I want to get an older ECU and disable it. I currently have a P5M-L55 on the car, not sure which number I would need as long as it still has the VTEC and it's for an automatic transmission. I figure from everything I have read on all forums and through Google, the price should be somewhere in the neighborhood of $50 used. Let me know if you have something. Does anyone know if the Tiptronic transmission option will still work with an older computer? Thanks.
Charles

 

I don't think you can use an OBD1 ecu on an OBD2 engine. You probably want to call a locksmith and ask them about reflashing your immobilizer control unit that is located under the little square of carpet in the passenger side floorboard on the console. Should run about 3 or 400 bucks. I have done it quite a few times. It is much cheaper than buying a new unit from honda.

 

i don't know for sure, but i suppose it's possible that you could get a '96 ecu to work, since that was the first year they were obdII. don't know about the differences between obdIIa and obdIIb though.