Caravan ECU Big problem!!

gtuplin · #1 11-20-2008, 02:09 AM

New here and looking for some rather technical assistance on my 2002 Grand Caravan.
ECU went south, no problem just call a local auto parts wrecker and provide the part number and get one but Big Problem, this model has immobilizer system!. Installed the used ECU tried to start the van and it did so 2 times them locked, WHAT now??? How do I reverse or correct this problem? Is there a way to reprogram or even bypass this? The local dodge dealer says they have never had to deal with a used ECU so have no knowledge of how to fix this problem, come on there must be a way !!!
Seriously it can not be so complex that it can not be fixed easily but I just can't seem to find the answer I need so PLEASE I need some assistance to get the van back on the road!
Thanks

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Nofrag · #2 11-20-2008, 03:27 AM

Just tell them to ignore that it's used, and reflash it like they would the original. God some people that are supposed to be smart(the dealer in this case), sure are dumb.

gtuplin · #3 11-20-2008, 11:26 AM

While I admit that not all mechanics that assume employment in a dealership are well trained I will go with the fact that you as moderator and many post would have some knowledge of this problem. I will try once again to approach the dealer and tell them what I would like them to attempt and see if that clears the cob webs out.
I will have to trailer the van to the dealer as it is immobilized but I really want to be sure that they can do this easily.
Does this have to be done in the service bay hooked to the the Serve Bay diag system.
Hey thanks for the help.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nofrag

Just tell them to ignore that it's used, and reflash it like they would the original. God some people that are supposed to be smart(the dealer in this case), sure are dumb.

gtuplin · #4 11-20-2008, 11:31 AM

Also wanted to be sure that since it is immobilized can they still access the ECU to re flash?

Nofrag · #5 11-20-2008, 12:47 PM

Well they are the only ones that can access it. I'm not a mechanic, but I assume that chrysler didn't intend for a van to become a brick if someone tries to steal it. Talk to a few of them before you trailer the van to the dealer and pay for them to try it. You can't be the fist guy dealing with an immobilized van, so they will be able to fix it, but if they're idiots you don't want to pay them for stabbing in the dark. Call a couple other dealers and ask their techs about it, see if they know what's going on.

rabbler · #6 11-21-2008, 03:16 AM

The problem is the serial Number in the SKIS module (Immobiliser) and the PCM don't match.
You can program the VIN (serial #) with the factory scan tool on a new or reman PCM but I'm not sure if you can over wright an existing VIN. (Its been a while. Sorry)

If they can't over wright the VIN they (Dealer) might be able to wipe clean the whole pcm and reprogram it like it was a new one.
Sometime they lock up (corrupt) when performing routine flash updates and you have to wipe the thing clean and start over,

Good luck!

gtuplin · #7 11-21-2008, 08:15 PM

All this info is great as it helps with the visit to the dealer, but there are thousands of used ECU for sale and the wreckers say they sell them so I just can't help but think it is a simple procedure . I wonder if the problem is that the dealer would rather just sell the $1000 part!
I also believe that it should not turn into a pumpkin for something as ridiculous as this!

rabbler · #8 11-23-2008, 12:11 AM

It wouldn't be much of a security system if you could just plug in a different PCM and drive off with the car, would it?