I need to change the computer in my '99 Dodge Durango 5.2, OD trans. I've searched online looking for a straight answer about how to do it but have yet to find one. Some people say you have to replace it with one that has the exact same part number, others say you just need one from the same year, engine size, trans type. I would rather do it myself instead of sending it to a dealership or shop.

There seem to be tons floating around on eBay right now but none with a part number matching mine (P58040102AD). If someone could shine some light on whether I can use any from the same year and get it reprogrammed/flashed at the Dealership or if I must use the same PN I would really appreciate it.

Thanks

 

Unless someone has direct experience and knows for certain - you could try calling various Parts counters at Dodge Dealers - someone might know and often they'll tell you.

I'd be cautious about using one that's not the right part number, it is very likely that reprogramming the PROM in there would work just fine, but maybe not.

In general, when it comes to electrical and such on vehicles, I'm cautious about 'work arounds' since so many other parts could end up fried in the process. I'd hate to mess up my injectors or something because of a funky computer... Other parts aren't so much of a concern if they fit right and all.

Nasty part is I did a Google search on that part number and only found your post pretty much. Did you try a local junk-yard? I know they are on various networks now and can order parts from just about anywhere.

With a computer, as long as there is some kind of warranty - at least that it works when you get it or can swap it out for another, I wouldn't think twice about one from a Junkyard.

Wish I could be more help, but the few times I have replaced one of these units in other cars, I've always managed to find the same part # out there.

 

the PCM usually needs to be flashed with your VIN and mileage in order to work correctly, not something that can simply be swapped out as a used part in most cases.

there are places on ebay which will do this for you, you tell them what year, vin and mileage match up with your truck and they flash it and mail it to you, then you just plug it in and go.

 

Question about the plug in and go. I have the same issue, ordered an ECM and got it Flashed, but now the parts guy says after I plug it in I will need to get the Body Control Module re-programmed because of the anti-thief devise in the car, otherwise it still will not start. Wanting to know how true this is before I end up towing it to a garage to have them scan the whole car for other possible issues.

 

Getting it reflashed isn't a problem, I know of a few places I can take it and I'm sure I'll have to do it regardless. I'm just wondering if any computer from the same year, engine size, etc will work the same if reflashed. That way I can pick up a cheap one out of the junk yard, put it on the durango, and go get it flashed.

 

afaik yes, as long as it is from the same size engine it should be flashable to work