Because getting an existing module repaired is so convoluted, more often than not people prefer to opt for a full ECM replacement.įor an ECM replacement, you’ll have to bring in the car to a repair shop where a new ECM has been ordered. Most repair shops aren’t equipped with the tools to properly fix them so to get your module repaired you’ll most likely have to ship it to a location that has the capability of repairing it. Having an ECM repaired can be difficult because they’re so complex. The engine may just be running rough due to a misfire when starting, the transmission may not shift correctly and make a grinding metallic sound, or the car may stall out occasionally for seemingly no reason.
Even if the problems aren’t quite as dire, they’ll be straightforward. The check engine light will go on and the car will often sputter out or not start at all. A failing ECM will cause constant problems across the car’s systems. If you have a problem with your car’s ECM, you’ll know it. So as you can see, the module is vital for the car’s ability to function. Those sensors send information back so the module can monitor the rest of the car. It does this by drawing power from the car battery and then sending electricity to engine sensors and other systems throughout the car. It is basically a computer that takes into account information from all the other systems to make sure the right amount of power is being delivered to the engine. The ECM itself is a circuit board that can control power and the direction that electricity flows. If something has an electrical component it likely has an ECU involved. There are a number of ECU’s throughout your vehicle that regulate how different components work, they can be found regulating your car’s air and heating systems, transmission, sliding doors, and body controls. It’s a type of ECU, or engine control unit. The ECM or engine control module is exactly what it sounds like, it helps control the engine. To make matters worse, when these problems do happen, it can be difficult to have them repaired since few repair shops are capable of working on the sensitive electronics.Īs car experts, we’ll give you all the information you’ll need to know what symptoms to look out for and what repair options may be best for you. That means that unlike other types of mechanical issues that can build up because of regular wear and get resolved when you start to see small symptoms, ECM problems can happen quite suddenly.
Problems with the ECM, or engine control module, can be especially frustrating because it is a specialized electronic component. One of the most expensive repairs you could have to make on your car is to the ECM. What Is An Engine Control Module (ECM) and How Much Do They Cost To Replace?