Hey guys, I'm seeking advice from the Chrysler wizards. My wife's car is a 2001 Dodge stratus 2.7 SE. The computer took a dump on it and I'm looking at a replacment. I found a used unit for 35 bucks at the junkyard but the car ran and died after 5 seconds with it in. I read that it needs to be reprogrammed to work correctly with the car, and read somewhere else that it wont ever work because computers are vin specific and wont work with any other vehicle once installed.

So my questions are will the used one work? obviously ill need to get it programmed but the shop is charging 75 for the job and I'm not gonna risk 75 bucks on a "probably not"

Do I need a refurbed or new computer? o'riellys wanted 340 and it still needed reprogramming. I see alot of used units on eBay which shouldn't be the case if the computer was no good after being programmed to a car. Thanks for your help in advanced.

 

You need to program the computer with the mileage and VIN. There are services on the internet that will supply you with a properly programmed computer on an exchange basis for around 200 bucks. You send them your VIN and mileage and the money. They send you a programmed computer and are available by phone if you need help installing it. They guarantee it will work. They also send you a prepaid shipping box to send back the old unit.

I replaced the computer on my Sebring 2.7 like that and was very satisfied with the results.

Your problem is that you have no idea whether the 35 dollar junkyard computer is any good, so having it programmed for another $75 may or may not work. On the other hand, you've got $35 invested in the project so far, and if the programming works, you're money ahead.

Ya pays yer money and ya takes yer chances.

 

He got a PCM that has SKIM and it wont be over written so no good.