Joined: Oct 2011

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I have a 1996 Honda Accord EX 2.2L 4-DR Sedan that has the check engine light on, indicated as P0141 code after I recently had the rack replaced. I took the vehicle back to the place that I had the work done, but they were unable to find the cause. They replaced the oxygen sensor and reset the ECU, but the light came back on again. I had to take it to another place and they believe I have a defective ECU module because there is no signal/power control to the oxygen sensor. If I was to get another used ECU module, does it need to be reprogrammed? If so, what is the cost?
As I researched further, I believe the ECU only needs to be reprogrammed if the vehicle has a factory installed anti-theft system, which it doesn’t. I have a separate DEI Viper alarm installed. So, purchasing another used ECU and installing it would be a plug-and-play if I am correct.

Joined: Dec 2008

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Joined: Oct 2011

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I never had a starting problem that was associated with the Viper alarm. I did have a problem with a hot start where it would not crank and it was a bad starter. So, just the starter itself or the ICM/Distributor. I had this alarm installed in 1999 and never had a problem with the alarm failing to work. Amazing..... for this long.

So, the master mechanic believes that the P0141 code is due to a faulty ECM. I also notice that when sitting at a light when the a/c is on, I can feel the engine shake sometimes. And sometimes there is hesitation when driving on the highway or going up a hill. In other words, I notice the engine shake more when it’s under a load. The mechanic says this is most likely due to the bad ECM. He says to try to replace it with the same exact number that’s on the module and see if the symptoms disappear.

Joined: Dec 2008

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d8N-SE047VY&

Joined: Feb 2009

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From: 94577/Gaillimh

Joined: Oct 2011

Posts: 14

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I took the ECU module out and reseated the connectors and sent the command to erase the code again and the light never came back on as it usually does. So, it appeared it was only a connection problem to the ECU module. I sprayed some electrical cleaner to remove any residue. The transmission shifter was shifting harder before and now it’s much smoother and easier. I didn’t think the the ECU was causing that, but I guess it was. It looks as if you were right to say that the ECU rarely fails. This is why I like to ask for opinions here because they certainly do matter. I’m going to monitor the car over the next few days before screw everything back together.