[johnnyzero]

I've got a 2004 Forester 2.5X w/ AT, and it looks like I might have to replace the ECM (with a used one). Of course, I would take care to replace it with the exact same ECM, from the exact same model/year/trim/tranny.

Does anyone know if I can just swap it out, without any type of re-programming? I've heard that some ECM's are VIN-specific, and this can allegedly cause problems with state DMV emissions/inspection if the ECM doesn't match the vehicle's actual VIN. Not sure if this is true.

Any info or advice will be much appreciated.

 

[2.5x_sleeper]

Not a whole lot of "magic" in those earlier ECM! Not user programmable & not VIN-specific.

I would take care to replace it with the exact same ECM, from the exact same model/year/trim/tranny.

If you do that, you shouldn't have any issues.

Bobby...

['07 FSXT Member Journal] ['03 X Member Journal]

 

[johnnyzero]

Thanks, Bobby. That's the answer I was hoping for.

 

[2.5x_sleeper]

The VIN got programmed into the ECM when the Forester got chipped key security... immobilizer security, in the '05 XT.

As long as you get an ECM that matches your Forester, AT or MT, you should be good.

Bobby...

['07 FSXT Member Journal] ['03 X Member Journal]

 

[davidhurd9]

@johnnyzero Match the part number on the ECU exactly or vehicle will not run.

 

[2.5x_sleeper]

@davidhurd9 please complete your "Public Profile" ► add your vehicle details! ◄

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Bobby...

['07 FSXT Member Journal] ['03 X Member Journal]