Code Reader cannot communicate with ECU/PCM - Guide for stock ECU swaps
#1
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Rep Power: 338 Code Reader cannot communicate with ECU/PCM - Guide for stock ECU swaps
This was copied from a response to a member, but since this crops up from time to time, better have a summary
a loose alternator can cause it to fry the PCM.
This is a known common issue in these cars.
If ECU/PCM does not come back after fixing alternator, look for used here:
https://www.civicforums.com/forums/1...-part-com.html
Notes:
1) get from same transmission type. (some sensors in the auto trans vs manual and the ECU/PCM might not like it)
2) If you have an EX, get from an EX - EX have the VTEC, the others do not have. If ECU/PCM is looking for VTEC and it is not there, engine will go into limp mode.
3) Starting from the 7th gen, (2001-2005) there is an anti-theft function - key have a chip that the PCM will read - if not programmed, it will not start. Looks like regular keysmiths nowadays can program them too, otherwise you will need to take to a dealer if you can't find one to do it. Or you can see if you can get the PCM, keys and drums from the same car in the junkyard (mostly the ignition that detects the chip, but if you want only one key, need doors, ignition, trunk and the rear seat lock). PCM should be around 100 bucks, not sure about the keys/drums. They will need to come from same car
4) 01-03 have narrow band O2 sensors, 04-05 have the wideband O2 sensor, so recommend getting PCM from 04-05. Not sure if you would have issues with the wideband sensor coupled with narrow band PCM. Having a narrow band sensor coupled with a wideband PCM for sure will not work.
a loose alternator can cause it to fry the PCM.
This is a known common issue in these cars.
If ECU/PCM does not come back after fixing alternator, look for used here:
https://www.civicforums.com/forums/1...-part-com.html
Notes:
1) get from same transmission type. (some sensors in the auto trans vs manual and the ECU/PCM might not like it)
2) If you have an EX, get from an EX - EX have the VTEC, the others do not have. If ECU/PCM is looking for VTEC and it is not there, engine will go into limp mode.
3) Starting from the 7th gen, (2001-2005) there is an anti-theft function - key have a chip that the PCM will read - if not programmed, it will not start. Looks like regular keysmiths nowadays can program them too, otherwise you will need to take to a dealer if you can't find one to do it. Or you can see if you can get the PCM, keys and drums from the same car in the junkyard (mostly the ignition that detects the chip, but if you want only one key, need doors, ignition, trunk and the rear seat lock). PCM should be around 100 bucks, not sure about the keys/drums. They will need to come from same car
4) 01-03 have narrow band O2 sensors, 04-05 have the wideband O2 sensor, so recommend getting PCM from 04-05. Not sure if you would have issues with the wideband sensor coupled with narrow band PCM. Having a narrow band sensor coupled with a wideband PCM for sure will not work.
#2
If you think a good mechanic is expensive, try hiring a bad one
Re: Code Reader cannot communicate with ECU/PCM - Guide for stock ECU swaps
4) 01-03 have narrow band O2 sensors, 04-05 have the wideband O2 sensor, so recommend getting PCM from 04-05. Not sure if you would have issues with the wideband sensor coupled with narrow band PCM. Having a narrow band sensor coupled with a wideband PCM for sure will not work.
#3
Dr Krieger of Modification
Re: Code Reader cannot communicate with ECU/PCM - Guide for stock ECU swaps
...I can't find the rep button on the phone app. I'll try to rep this post when i get home. Good post.
#4
If you think a good mechanic is expensive, try hiring a bad one
Re: Code Reader cannot communicate with ECU/PCM - Guide for stock ECU swaps
i always have to 'view full site' instead of the mobile version
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