Where to get an ECM replacement?

Can You Swap in a Used PCM? Experts Weigh In

If you own a late-model GM vehicle with a bad ECM or PCM, the short answer is NO; you cannot swap in a used PCM, ECM, or any other module from a junkyard. Even if the part number on the used PCM, ECM, or module is exactly the same, that doesn’t mean it’s programmed properly. On most late-model cars and trucks, the PCM, ECM, or module MUST be programmed to your vehicle’s VIN code and build code. Don’t believe me? Read this scary Technical Service Bulletin from GM:

GM PIP4670E Service Bulletin

GM and other manufacturers have issued service bulletins warning of the problems associated with swapping in used PCM, ECM and modules that aren’t specifically programmed to your VIN code and build code.

Here’s a recent service bulletin from GM discussing how swapping in a PCM, BCM, EBCM, SDM TCM ECC, EPC, HPCM or Instrument cluster from another vehicles without first programming it to your VIN can DAMAGE BOTH CONTROLLERS!!!

“The Global Architecture electrical system associated with these vehicles does not allow controller swaps between vehicles.

Swapping ECMs or other modules (including Radio, BCM, EBCM, SDM, TCM, ECC (HVAC), EPS, HPCM, & IPC) between two vehicles with the Global Architecture electrical system will result in damaging both controllers (A NO START CONDITION WILL OCCUR ON BOTH VEHICLES IF THESE MODULES ARE SWAPPED) due to the new vehicle security code protocol (environment) starting with the 2010 MY GDS applications.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.”

Where to get a replacement ECM, PCM, or module?

Rather than shop at a junkyard where you’ll still have to pay a shop to

Body Control Module

program it to your VIN and build code, instead shop at a rebuilder. You’ll get a rebuilt unit with a warranty and it’ll be programmed to your VIN and Build code. You may still have to pay to get the anti-theft portion programmed, but at least you won’t damage the other modules in the system.

PCM, ECM and Module rebuilders

bba-reman.com
autoecmstore.com
autocomputerexchange.com
goecm.com
modulemaster.com
fs1inc.com
moduleexperts.com

©, 2018 Rick Muscoplat