OK...so my T&C's computer needs replacing (according to dealer: part RL134857AA). I owe dealer $115 for 1 hour diagnosis, but they want to charge me $687 (for the part) + 2 more hours of labor for programming (another $230).


I found a company ready to ship me a pre-programmed replacement for $200 (1996-2007 Chrysler Town & Country PCM ECM ECU TCM TCU). They guarantee it'll work and that it's "plug and play", iow, no programming needed (I just give them VIN and mileage prior to shipping). But is this an easy diy job to replace the unit? I couldn't find any instructions on the web anywhere.


Anyone here done this replacement before?


Thanks!

 

Diy? Yes. Have I done it? No but from reading it appears pretty straight forward. The PCM is mounted forward in the driver's wheel well. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Easiest to remove the tire but may be able to skip it by turning the wheels right. Remove or pull back the wheel well liner on the driver's side. Disconnect the connections, remove 4 bolts. Install in reverse order.

FYI - What you're changing is still called the PCM but is actually a combination PCM/TCM (engine and transmission controller) termed the Next Generation Computer or NGC. On older vans when the TCM is changed it's best to get a "Quick Learn" procedure done to quicken it's adaptation to how you drive. Without it you may have harsh shifting. Not sure if that applies to your type of PCM or if their reprogramming loads the quick learn. May want to ask.

 

not as familiar with the petrol engines as I am with the diesels, but on a diesel you need to replace the ECM, BCM and SKIM/SKREEM together unless you can program the ECM to match the secuirty codes.

Regards
Ricahrd

 

In US the VIN holds the key to which security system the van is equipped with so it will match up with the BCM/SKIM etc. that's already in your van. When you order a new PCM they ask for the VIN number for just that reason. They then program it and send it to you.

 

is it just the VIN that needs to be entered or a code that is derived from the VIN?

Regards
Richard

 

Good question. All I've ever read is they use the VIN number to determine how the van is equipped. Not inconceivable that a digit in the VIN would steer them to a code to enter as they program it. Just don't know. Maybe one of the Chrysler techs on here can answer that. Course at a dealership they would just enter the VIN into their DRBIII press go and it becomes automatic. How a rebuilder does it is up for grabs.