I am asking this question for my daughter. Someone installed a computer module from a dakota in a '98 Ram that she bought (cheap). Both trucks had the same size engine, 360. Can the (former) Dakota module be programmed to work in the Ram? The Dakota module is in the Ram now and it is running. But she has been told that the check engine light will never go out and the fuel efficiency will be bad.

 

Not sure there is that much of a difference between the two..... The new PCM should be flashed with the trucks VIN, and that should turn off the CEL..... (and possibly the ABS lite as well?) The engine and trans are pretty much the same.... Not like these guys got stellar gas mileage when they were new....

Welcome to DF!

 

i think as long as you have the same type engine and tranny in your truck as the dakota does, you just gotta get it flashed. like heyyou said the engine and tranny arent to different from a ram to a dakota.

 

Thanks guys. It sounds like she can get it flashed and it should work. I don't know what tranny the dakota had (it was totaled) but it is worth a try. Is flashing somethng that a dealer should do? She said the local dealer is a really butt.

 

Dealer, or any independent shop with the right equipment.... probably have to call around on that.

 

thanks hey you . I will check around . Her computer is down so I am the google guy this week .

 

I was just told by a Dodge dealer that the '98 era module can't be reprogrammed and that a new one would cost >$500. Does that sound right?

 

Nope. Not correct. Any 96 and up PCM can be reprogrammed. Talk to Hemifever, he may be able to set you up.

 

Why am I not surprised that they lied. I will ck with heimfever. However I found some remanufactured units on ebay that r reprogrammed to her VIN for around 180. I wil probably go that way since I am financing this project. Unless u can recommend a cheaper source or think that isn't a relaible way to go. Once again tks fo the help.

 

DO NOT get one from auto computer exchange, their reputation is absolutely horrid.