Many areas of your BMW require technological function to work properly; however, one of the most important areas of your vehicle’s functioning is the engine control module (ECM). This is essentially your engine’s computer that helps optimize and implement engine function.
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What are the signs of a failing ECM?
- Check Engine Light (Or Other Sensors)
- Engine Performance Issues.
- Poor Fuel Efficiency.
- Car Won’t Start.
- Transmission Complications.
How much does a ECM module cost?
The cost for the new ECM will typically be around $800, with labor around $100, bringing the average total expense for an ECM replacement to approximately $900 before taxes and fees. This can increase depending on the shop you go to or the type of car you, running as high as $2,000.
Is an ECM an expensive repair?
Your ECM repair cost could likely be more than you want to spend on your car. In addition to the replacement module cost, you should expect several hundred dollars in diagnosis, replacement, and programming. It’s not unreasonable to see ECM repairs in excess of $1,500 or $2,000.
Can I replace an ECM myself?
The answer to the question “Is it hard to replace an ECM?” is NO! The parts themselves aren’t inexpensive (as long as you’re buying them from us!), plus high quality aftermarket and OEM ECMs can be easily installed yourself.
How much is a BMW ECU?
An OEM vehicle ECU repair can cost between $2000 – $4000. Fortunately, The ECU Pro offers repairs and refurbished replacement units at a fraction of the OEM repair price. An ECU diagnostic test will need to be run on your existing DME / ECU to see if a repair can be done, or if replacement is needed.
What causes ECM failure?
Because ECMs are electrical systems, they’re subject to short-circuits, power surges, and other failures that plague electronics. The most common source of ECM failure is in one of the wiring harnesses. If the wires to the transmission or fuel injectors become corroded, they can lose conductivity, leading to a failure.
Can ECM be repaired?
Repairing the ECM is an economical way since a brand new ECM would definitely cost 8-10X more. I have seen ECMs being repaired for Jettas and Passats (apart from the car shown in the video above) and the issue didn’t recur after these repairs. Repairing typically involves replacing a busted IC.
How do I reset my ECM?

How long does a ECM last?
The ECM will usually last the lifetime of the car, though it can go bad. In fact, the computer can fail as early as 75,000 miles, and around 125,000 miles is the most common range for ECM replacement.
How long does it take to replace an ECM?
If you take your car into a dealer to replace the ECM, it will usually take about an hour or two.
How do you fix a bad ECM?
The first, and easiest, way to repair an ECM is if there’s a problem with the power supply. Oftentimes, these can be repaired by a skilled mechanic or electrician, by rectifying any shorts or bad connections. However, most ECM problems are a result of a bug in the software itself.
Where is ECM located in a car?

Is ECM covered under warranty?
For the most part, yes, sensors are covered under a powertrain warranty. Standard coverage includes essential engine control module sensors. However, your car’s auxiliary sensor systems, such as cabin awareness, braking, or suspension sensors, will not usually be covered under a powertrain warranty.
What is the difference between a ECU and a ECM?
ECM stands for Engine Control Module, and ECU is short for Engine Control Unit. These two acronyms represent the same component and are used interchangeably.
Can you drive with a faulty ECM?
Can you drive with a faulty ECU? It isn’t recommended to drive with a faulty ECU, but it is possible to keep driving the vehicle. The longer you run with the deteriorating ECU, the more issues you’re going to run into when it’s time to bring it to the shop.
What does the ECM do in a car?
An engine control unit (ECU), also commonly called an engine control module (ECM), is a type of electronic control unit that controls a series of actuators on an internal combustion engine to ensure optimal engine performance.
Can AutoZone test my ECM?
AutoZone offers Loan-A-Tool, Oil Recycling, Charging System Testing, Battery Charging, ECM Testing, Battery Testing, and Check Engine Light Fix Finder, all for free. Once you’ve received the results of your test you can decide whether or not you should replace your battery or have your car serviced.
How do I reset my BMW ECU?
You can reset a BMW ECU by unplugging the negative battery cable for 10 to 15 minutes. This should be enough to reset the ECU in most BMW models. If this doesn’t work, you can also try jumpstarting your car to reset it. This will also help if the issue is a drained battery!
How many ECU does a BMW have?
Today, high end luxury cars have over hundred in-built or installed ECUs in them. For example โ a BMW 7-series vehicle is estimated to have 150+ Automotive ECUs to control and regulate the functions of the car.
How do you check ECM?
The least invasive way to diagnose your ECM is to connect an onboard diagnostic (OBD or OBD II) tool to the diagnostic port. From there, you can scan to see if your engine computers have produced any error codes. There are many of these codes, and your diagnostic tool’s manual should have information on what they mean.
Does an ECM need to be programmed?
ECM Programming is Essential In fact, if you replace the ECM on a vehicle model year ’96 or newer and don’t flash or program it, then your vehicle won’t start. Most electronic car modules have a warning on them about reflashing before installation.
Where is the ECM fuse located?

What is the ECM fuse?
The fuse exists within the ECM. When it is blown, the ECM starts falling naturally. The most prominent symptom of a failing ECM is no power when the key is put to start. A failed fuse cuts off the power and disconnects the entire vehicle from the power source. As a result, the engine fails to start.
How much is it to replace an ECU?
ECU repairs can be very expensive. The part alone can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Fortunately, an ECU can be repaired or reprogrammed in many casesโthus preventing the need to actually replace an ECU.