The ECM, or electronic control module, is the computer responsible for controlling all of the engine management functions. It is the central control unit of most vehicles and controls a variety of functions, such as electrical system power distribution, emissions, ignition, and fuel systems.
On a newer model car the ECU/ECM controls everything ignition related AT LEAST. Timing, ignition, air. When the fuse blows, the engine control unit/module loses power and is unable to control the ignition process, the throttle (drive by wire) shuts and fuel ceases to be commanded to move.
The ECM 1 is one such computer; it has a fuse is installed to protect the computer from sudden power surges or other component damage -- the fuse will blow before any damage can reach the ECM. Many component defects can cause your ECM 1 fuse to blow.
The easiest way to perform an ECU reset is by removing the fuse from the fuse box. It is a very simple process, and all you have to do is pull out the car key, remove the fuse from the fuse box, and then put it back after about 15 to 20 seconds. Doing this clears any long-term memory stored in the car's ECU.
The ECM manages the ignition and the fuel system. The engine wont run with out it.
Method Two: Remove the ECU Fuse
Thus, without a working ECU, a car can not get fuel to the engine, meaning it can not run.
A faulty ECM can send poor data to your vehicle's transmission control module (TCM). As a result, the vehicle cannot properly shift gears or apply power, causing the shift to feel awkward, delayed, or even jarring. When this occurs, the engine may sporadically become more active or stall out.
If the ECM or it's relay fail, the entire engine management system will be left without power and will not function as a result. A bad relay may cause the vehicle to crank, but not start, or sometimes not even crank at all.
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.
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. Fortunately, these issues can usually be resolved by replacing the corroded wires.
The engine control module does what its name suggests: It controls the engine. If the ECM has died completely, you won't be able to start your car. Your engine could cut while you're driving, as well, if the ECU malfunctions. Once you've coasted to a stop, you won't be able to get your automobile started again.
One way to see if the data is making its way to the ECM is to look at the data PIDs using your scan tool. We can get an idea of the accuracy of the information by changing the engine's state and seeing if the data PID changes in response, or by comparing the data to another sensor to see if the two are in alignment.
Although the ECM power relay is meant to last the entire lifetime of your vehicle, sometimes it can still fail. If it does, it's usually due to moisture issues or a power distribution issue. You won't be able to leave the part as is since your vehicle needs the ECM power relay in order to run.
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. This isn't common.
Like desktop computers and most other electronics, disconnecting the battery cable for a short period will not fully reset your ECU due to the residual power remaining in the circuits.
The ECU has the job of controlling the fuel injection, ignition and ancillaries of the engine using digitally stored equations and numeric tables, rather than by analogue means.
The power distribution center, or fuse block, located under the hood houses most or all of the vehicle's fuses and relays. It contains a relay for the ECM that is powered up when the ignition key is turned to the on position. This ECM power relay acts as a switch that supplies power to the ECM.
The average cost for an Engine Control Module (ECM) Replacement is between $960 and $1,035. Labor costs are estimated between $76 and $96 while parts are priced between $883 and $939.
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. Looking to sell a problem car?