Signs & Symptoms of a Failing ECU/ECM! (Engine Control Unit or Engine Control Module)

[@vanessamartin9802]

Multiple faults on dash including "check esp", "check hill start assist", "check auto gear box". Car runs fine for 10-20 minutes prior to faults displaying on the dash. When faults appear, we just turn off the car, wait 30-60 seconds and then start it up again and all faults are gone for another 10-20 min. Ran diagnostic check and it showed a bunch of faults, including lots of short circuit earth wire faults. 2012 Renault Megane III 1.5 dci automatic.

[@8020Media]

V - It certainly sounds like an electronic issue.

[@mentonelly9540]

my 2007 honda Civic Si is pulling PO630. my fuel pump doesn't turn on, and there's no spark. my green key light doesn't light up. iam thinking my civic si was into anti theft mode. i was thinking of calling a locksmith n seeing if he could help. maybe relearn da key to da immobilizer or reset da ECU. not sure wat to do. i don't have da money to go to da dealership.

[@true-sensei-887]

Code u0100 and U0101 popped up, battery was replaced, says no communication. No check engine, was wondering how i can fix this? Maybe bad ECM or TCM? Tranmission works fine, no stalling or anything like that. Everything looks fine, those 2 codes are the only ones, unfortunately the reason i started looking into it and replaced battery was due to it not craking in the cold. Their was a check engine but it went away after hitting it with the scanner. -2014 nissan maxima sv

[@8020Media]

T - The U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM) and U0101 (Lost Communication with TCM) codes on your 2014 Nissan Maxima indicate intermittent communication issues between the control modules, likely due to a weak or disrupted power or ground connection rather than outright failure of the ECM or TCM, especially since the transmission works fine and the issue started after a no-crank situation in cold weather. Start by inspecting the battery terminals and ground connections for corrosion or looseness, as poor electrical connections can cause these communication errors. Check the main ground strap from the battery to the chassis and engine, as well as the connections at the ECM and TCM. Additionally, ensure the replacement battery is properly installed and charged. If the codes persist, consider inspecting the CAN bus wiring for damage or interference, as this could also lead to intermittent communication problems. Keep us updated!

[@true-sensei-887]

@8020Media fixed it, was a bad ground by left side engine coming from ecm, had to drive the car for the code to go away. Otherwise everything checks out. Found a new leak regarding the transmission lol, axel transmission seal is leaking so trans fluid is leaking. For some reason CAN BUS isn't communicating either so wonder what's that all about Code U1000

[@craigcharlestone]

Great insights!

[@8020Media]

C - Thanks for the feedback! Hope it was helpful.

[@tdoggcat]

Crank no start? Replaced crank and cam sensor. Replaced IPDM.

[@tdoggcat]

I took it to a shop it showed p2101. Ipdm. I replaced it still crank no start .. 2008 nissan titan.

[@8020Media]

T - We have a full video that may help with this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zoq1la2Al62Wo5Y

[@monicatheshyone3985]

My 2012 Honda accord was diagnosed with the u1055 code ECM and the lights are popping up for the TCS, ABS and handbrake light. What do I check and have to fix, to get those light to go away? Can I drive, without issues?

[@monicatheshyone3985]

I’m driving the shit out of my car. There is nothing wrong with it, just the lights that are still on.

[@9691ark]

​@@monicatheshyone3985😂😂😂

[@true-sensei-887]

@monicatheshyone3985 battery maybe? When power isn't going trough it correctly it can throw off codes. So maybe check alternator, battery, or grounds?

[@Darin-d5t]

1999 chevy S10 starts runs for 10 or 15 seconds then stalls like it's not getting gas replaced every thing from fuel pump to the fuel injection system. Help

[@8020Media]

D - If your 1999 Chevy S10 starts and stalls after 10-15 seconds despite replacing the fuel pump and injection system, it’s likely due to the Passlock anti-theft system, which shuts off fuel injectors if it doesn’t detect the correct key signal. Check if the "Security" light flashes or stays on when the engine stalls; if so, reset the system by turning the key to the "ON" position for 10-15 minutes until the light stops flashing, then try starting again. Inspect the ignition cylinder wiring for damage, as faulty connections can interrupt the Passlock signal. If Passlock isn’t the issue, test the fuel pressure regulator to ensure it maintains pressure, check for vacuum leaks, and clean or inspect the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, as these can also cause stalling. Keep us updated.

[@Darin-d5t]

@@8020Media Have no fault codes.Already.Bypass the THEFT and it is still doing it even replaced everything on The throttle body Even the mass air sensor Thinking it has to be the ECM

[@Darin-d5t]

@@8020Media When it started doing this it ran fine The next morning went outside.Got in started.The RPM went very high enough to wear.I turn the key off And it has been like this ever since starts.Runs ten fifteen seconds and dies.

[@8020Media]

D - Certainly sounds like it could be the ECM.

[@derrickdagastino3792]

My truck is high idling and at times it wont start when i turn the key then it will eventually starts it likes to do it when it rains or is cold. I thought it was initially a bad tps but it didnt fix the issue. When i drive it over 40 it high revs and when its sitting it revs up to 1500 rpm and i used a scan tool and it did say a ecu code on the scanner. Any ideas on what could be causing this?

[@8020Media]

D - With an ECU code, it could be the ECU. With the starting issues, these videos may be more helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYC6ZoWidtCkn5Y kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zoq1la2Al62Wo5Y

[@corridosbarron3566]

Nice video 👍

[@8020Media]

C - Thanks for the feedback!

[@sierraproduction6581]

I believe my ecu/ecm is failing on my 18’ camaro throwing all those codes and giving a list of faulty sensors. Is it better to replace ecu first rather than going down the list and fixing all the list of codes? Ive replaced a couple of the codes like spark plugs, 2 ignition coils, and has fixed the misfires. now giving oil pressure fault sensor. And still idling rough

[@8020Media]

S - If it was up to us, we would change sensors first as they tend to be cheaper. Keep us updated.

[@OCtheG]

@@8020MediaCorrect! Bad signal input can kill an ECM, the hard faults should be rectified first before trashing a new computer with the same issues.

[@clutch5sp989]

I was getting an electrical burnt smell in the car. With an ALT overcharging, this fried many things in the system.

[@8020Media]

C - So sorry to hear, hope you got it fixed!

[@kemarmitchell6501]

E12CIC error message on my 2012 528i xdrive

[@8020Media]

K - This typically relates to a communication or functionality issue with the CIC (Car Information Computer), which controls the iDrive system. This can be caused by software glitches, a failed module, or wiring/connectivity problems within the CIC system.

[@Hollydudd]

Changed the alternator found out it was faulty due to the solenoid leaking oil onto it. Fixed that as well. Then a big misfire ran code to see which cylinder swapped coils, same cylinder, swapped plugs same cylinder. Changed the injectors no issues 3 months later leaking oil again and I’m contemplating the PCM considering everything else I’ve done in the past 5 months. This started happening 2 days after an oil and transfer case changing. Codes are telling me ecm/isu 83-11 and power source failure 61-11 Which oil may have got into the alternator connector so could be that.

[@Hollydudd]

There is no check engine light or anything currently lit up. I just ran my blue driver ob reader to see if it had any information

[@8020Media]

H - This oil leak could have caused some sort of electrical issue.

[@Hollydudd]

@@8020Media the location of the leak is near the top of the engine. Close to the dip stick and solenoid I replaced. The solenoid doesn’t seem to look like it has oil on it or coming through. At least not from the angle I can see In 2 weeks since the oil change it went from the recommended level to being at the minimum. Getting close to 1000km. It’s a 2013 Pilot if that matters

[@8020Media]

H - You've definitely got a leak going on somewhere.. That's a lot of oil consumption in 2 weeks.

[@ericjimenez6886]

I recently messed up my truck (2003 Silverado 1500) I connected my light bars positive wire to get power and connected it to my f/pmp relay and while I was doing it my truck shut off and ever since no crank , no start then I moved around the fuses and it starts but the dash doesn’t work and it says low power , when I go to turn off the truck it doesn’t turn off the engine keeps running for a minute then turns off . Any suggestions?

[@8020Media]

E - Are you getting any engine codes?

[@ericjimenez6886]

@@8020Media the dash wasn’t working I got my truck back to running good took it to the dealership

[@ericjimenez6886]

@@8020Media turns out the reason the truck didn’t want to crank and start was because I put to much pressure in the fuel lines and needed to bleed it out got it back from the dealership running but still electrical problems I checked under the hood and a ground was disconnected from the battery. I plugged it back in and good to go my fault for not noticing the obvious

[@8020Media]

E - Thanks for coming back and updating here! This will certainly help future viewers.

[@jcastro91235]

My engine light came on and I hit it checked and it says code P0420 Bank 1 Caralyst system efficiency was below threshold for a predetermined period of time don’t know what this means but I’m afraid it might cost lots of money. My car is running goid but the only thing I have noticed in the past is that it fiesnt go fast when I push the gas pedal it is super slow

[@8020Media]

J - We actually have a video that would help here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmrXlXarobOYjbM

[@ttamnosredna1984]

2011 chevy sonic. Replaced coil pack and spark plugs. Car runs well, then traction control light comes on with a flashing check engine light where the car runs rough. Possible ECM issue?.

[@8020Media]

T - Do you know what engine codes you're getting? This is the quickest way to diagnose what could be the issue.

[@jmzz4mrlz597]

On my 2017 Subaru Impreza the module did get change and it run really good. Then all the sudden I get the stupid lights on with the check engine light and hill start system. What’s next ??

[@8020Media]

J - What engine codes are you getting?

[@jmzz4mrlz597]

@8020Media I have to find my paperwork can’t really remember the codes. I did notice it’s running way better, gas mileage has improved to normal, acceleration or power as well. To me seems like it’s back to normal after the module change. The down side it’s the stupid lights, I’m trying to save up because of the estimate I got was $2k for the next step.

[@8020Media]

J - Keep us updated!

[@train5640]

What would cause my ac and radio to be able to turn on without key in the ignition? It's a 2008 pt cruiser 😫

[@8020Media]

T - Could be a possible bad starter solenoid.

[@justinainglin6430]

I have a 2007 maxda cx7 sports. It wont idle unless warm. So when I start the car I have to pump the gas to warm the engine and it is misfiring. Literally aounds like it is farting from the exhaust. Would this be an ecu issue?

[@8020Media]

J - Sounds more like a fueling issue. Getting a check engine light or codes?

[@hendricks177]

I got a 91 Ford f350 7.5 i have replaced almost everything but it still misfires. Could my PCM be a problem?

[@8020Media]

H - What engine codes are you getting?

[@hendricks177]

@@8020Media recently the codes are 87. 10. 93.

[@hendricks177]

​@@8020Mediamy truck takes a OBD1.

[@annetterodriguez2668]

My 2018 equinox tire pressure not working gas gauge not working and my key fob not working all three stop working in the same time what can it be

[@8020Media]

A - Could be a bad battery. Are you getting any check engine lights?

[@John-tb7mu]

my 1993 corvette is showing a code 44 that means 02 sensor or running lean. 02 sensor with many other items have been changed on this vehicle. To list would be to long, but I still get H44 code and the vehicle runs good. Sometimes on idle at red light a little rough and light will come on then the light will go off but vehicle runs good. Changed prom in ecm thinking that would help still showing H44 code. Some times on the idle runs fine sent the ECM out last winter to SAI Electronics in IL and they said there was no problem. Cannot figure why this code continues to come up H44 is left bank 02 sensor. Both have been changed along with the cats to new magna flow cats. Many other items have been changed on the vehicle but continue to get code 44 with check engine light. At wits end

[@8020Media]

J - Sorry to hear this. Have you taken it to a shop?

[@randallhutchcraft5518]

Interesting information.

[@8020Media]

R - Thanks? We hope it was helpful.

[@Justin-fq7vj]

I make sure the battery is strong first.Then check fuses. And if some don't light up but are good then i find the relay that has control over them. Some times there are two related relay's that go to the same thing. Same with fuses And they are in different places. Most auto's have two or three fuse boxes that have relays in them too. First of all of them is the ECM or ECU relay if you get a no communication read.🥴Also you may have a single relay by itself somewhere like under the dash on driver's side fuel pump. Also on the positive battery post have fuses some times. What next 🤔 well sensors another word for fuse's that mostly control the motors running in some form. For a awesome fuse and relay layout to your car's fuse boxes go to Google and ask for start my car. U will be amazed when you see it. 👍✅👀

[@8020Media]

J - Thanks for taking the time to share this insight!

[@SwipeTheStones]

I have a 2000 camry 2.2 l Misfires over 50 mph consistently. Doesnt throw a code. Have replaved plugs, wires, coil packs, all 3 EGU components, cleaned throttle body. Still wont go away. No codes active at all

[@8020Media]

S - Maybe this video would be more helpful with your research: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGLQgmieeZZgrKs

[@goodvrsevil737]

what would cause a fuel pump to shut off, i have a 2006 ford f150 4.6 it starts fine runs for like 2 minutes then idles down and stalls. the on board system tells me to check gauges, everything seems ok. then i try to star it from that point and it just cranks, no start, but if i turn the ign key to off and it will repeat the run and stall, i took the plug off the fuel pump driver module .and jumped the 2 outer wires and it starts and stays running. can not figure what is going on any suggestions!

[@8020Media]

G - We have a video specifically on the fuel pump that may help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mabEZ5R9Z9GXb6c

[@tommcbride6610]

Fuel pump overheating. Works good when cold then shuts off. Mostly with aftermarket pumps

[@JamesLisbony]

Would my ecm be bad, I have drove 3000 miles and obd reader says some things are not ready for inspection.

[@8020Media]

J - This is very vague and we aren't sure how to help. What things aren't ready? What codes are you getting? We just need more information.

[@JamesLisbony]

@@8020Media I think my ecm is failing. No codes on dash . Everything I take it to get inspected, it doesn't pass . They tell me the catalyst, h2o sensor, and o2 sensor not ready.

[@8020Media]

J - Have you taken it to a mechanic?

[@corridosbarron3566]

DME what controls?

[@8020Media]

C - What?

[@juntrung7689]

Mine was running fine but after I turn off to fill up gas then it doesn’t get no power whatsoever no lights/sound/etc. so basically dead car like parasitic draw power shortages draw

[@8020Media]

J - Sounds like it could be your alternator. We have a ton of DIY content on our channel that could help.

[@juntrung7689]

@ the car uses the battery to start the car then the alternator takes over! This is not the case no sound no lights when you first turn the key nothing at all

[@8020Media]

J - This video may be more helpful for your research: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zoq1la2Al62Wo5Y

[@juntrung7689]

@ it does help but that’s not the issue! Thx tho

[@maherdance4129]

Thank you❤❤❤❤

[@8020Media]

M - Thanks for the feedback! Hope it helps.

[@zanzimez]

For some reason the check engine light does not come on at all on my car, I have a ‘77 porsche 924 and it does not come on despite my car misfiring constantly. Cant even accelerate/ step on the gas without it misfiring and the car wants to cut off and is sputtering. Any ideas on what it could be?

[@8020Media]

Z - Have you checked for engine codes? This is usually the best place to start for diagnosing.

[@GotitGamingCommentary]

Got a decently interesting story here. 2013 Ford Fusion se with a 1.6 cylinder SE. Brought car to ford dealer to get two tires replaced, they replaced the two tires and a wheel speed sensor they said was faulty. Fast forward a week, car throws 7 different codes while driving 30 mph on a two minute drive, Coolant overheat P1299, steering fault, abs/traction control fault, evap issue, U0131 and U1035. To try to fix the easiest first, I replaced the battery (5 years old) and the Coolant Temp Sensor, because online they said if there was coolant in the harness it could cause the short. Fast forwards another week, all the codes pop back up and it goes into limp again. At this point I brought it back top the dealership, they told me they think they need to replace the coolant temp sensor and the pigtail to the sensor. Which befuttled me because I just put a new one in a week ago. I called them to tell them this and they said it could be do to a cheap part (My part was OEM). Fast forward to this week, Traction contol/ABS error, P1450 EVAP, U1035 and U0131 popped up again. My thoughts are all bringing me to a computer issue because after I clear the codes, it runs smoothly for days and hundreds of miles. The car has been taken care of and hasn't had any issues since the Electric Steering Collum was replaced a year ago from failing. Any ideas would be great, thanks!

[@8020Media]

G - Think you might be right here.. Sorry to hear about your troubles, however, please keep us updated!

[@corridosbarron3566]

Make a video of DME module …🤔👍

[@8020Media]

C - The DME is another acronym for the ECU.

[@stevenallanbush4833]

Will this cors the car to over heet

[@8020Media]

S - Not likely.

[@jerryshadley8977]

no, i'd check your thermostat and coolent temp sensor an depending on vehicle check the radiator fan relays 1st.

[@8020Media]

J - Great advice here. Thanks for replying to Steven.

[@ace8822]

If my car is stolen in shaking can Reprogramming my e c u possible fix the problem

[@8020Media]

A - We think this video may be helpful in your research: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJq8pKSIf6h_nqc

[@ace8822]

@@8020Media thanks

[@bigbusiness6903]

2012 Ram 2500 ST, Crew Cab 4 Full-Size Doors, Four-Wheel Drive, 5.7L V8 Gas---- where can I order a ECU/ECM

[@8020Media]

B - Have you gone to the dealership? If not, there's a ton of resources online.

[@bigbusiness6903]

@@8020Mediadealship ? Hell no I know the dealership prices

[@8020Media]

B - Could give you an OEM part # was our point here.

[@bigbusiness6903]

@@8020Media I’m so unknowingly thinking at the moment 🥹🥹 I’m not 100% sure of which part to buy 🥹🥹 don’t know if it’s the TIPM -FUEL PUMP - OR ECU/ECM

[@8020Media]

B - No worries! We hope it gets resolved for you. Keep us updated.

[@d7895482]

My car engine runs just fine but in the last few years when I’ve gone out to start up it like misfires and the engine light is flashing becomes undrivable. I go inside wait 10 minutes and start it up and it runs just fine. It’s done like three or four times in the last few years.

[@8020Media]

D - Sorry to hear this.. Are you getting any engine codes?

[@jerryshadley8977]

Check your spark plug wires/boots for any damage if so replace them, also check your spark plugs for any noticeable damage an if there is replace them. If that doesn't work an ya have one on you use a scanner tool to try and see if any codes shows up.

[@8020Media]

J - Thanks for the input here.

[@rogerbrown1491]

@@8020Media

[@altonkenne579]

I have a 2016 malibu LS .1.5 turbo. No codes. No engine light on. New plugs. New coils new maf sensor new 02 sensors new air filter. Fresh oil change. Cleaned throttle body. No vacuum leaks to be found. Scanner shows all is good. But bad fuel economy. And rough idle. 82k miles

[@8020Media]

A - We have a video on rough idling that might be helpful here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJq8pKSIf6h_nqc

[@markservais4259]

Not trying to sound to stupid because it comes natural for me but is ECU and ECM the same thing just different term and your picture shows ECM also controls AC is that correct because maybe ECM then is my problem

[@8020Media]

M - ECU and ECM are the same thing, yes. Are you getting any check engine lights?

[@markservais4259]

@8020Media yes. I'm going to replace the throttle actuator control this weekend

[@markservais4259]

My code is 1516

[@markservais4259]

I see where my confusion might be, your diagram doesn't show the throttle actuator control (tac) unless the ECU is another name for it

[@8020Media]

M - How's this going?

[@Designatedeagle]

Its funny the pcm has a code for everything but itself.

[@8020Media]

D - Haha true..

[@jasminenarinkiz9229]

I'm going to get myself a dinosaur and a rock car😂

[@8020Media]

J - Lol. Might be more reliable than anything else made today.

[@JohnnyGARLAND-e9k]

👍

[@8020Media]

J - Thanks for the feedback! We hope the video helps.

[@CarlRichmond]

odb2 what a joke . misfire ... new plugs , wires , distributor , crankshaft sensor , tps, new injector system , 350 bucks in diagnostic fees .2002 blazer 4.3 engine . ecm or ecu ? which shows gm intelligence they couldnt figure out what to call it. great compression great leakdown test . if the ecm/u does not work i might drive it to detroit and park it in gms lobby.

[@8020Media]

C - So sorry to hear this..

[@ssporky650]

Lol get some rest guy

[@TheSevendust2006]

Take a nap bro

[@openboxer2326]

Maybe fuel regulator,fuel distributor/spider, or fuel clog. If you feel like its spark, backprobe ignition module to ground for expected or control signal. Do the same voltage/drop test for chasis grounds just to verify them. Follow bad circuits to fuse/relay, ecu, or chasis grounds with diagram. My experience is with the direct ignition. I believe a forum mentioned reseating your distributor or there being an issue with the gear.

[@darrellneal238]

Will a ECM make your anti thief light come on after the truck run for about 15 minutes

[@8020Media]

D - Not likely.

[@edjohns9463]

My 2003 3500 Dodge ram Cummings diesel shuts down while driving starts back up right away can’t determine what the problem is could it be the ECM or some sensor.

[@8020Media]

E - This video may be helpful with your research: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZPUcnyYjreXpMU

[@stormproofconstruction148]

My 2018 ram cummins 6.7 is throwing the p0607 code . Where should i start?

[@8020Media]

S - A P0607 (Control Module Performance) code on your 2018 Ram Cummins 6.7 indicates an issue with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which could result from software glitches, electrical problems, or internal PCM failure. Start by checking the battery voltage and ensuring all battery terminals and grounds are clean and tight, as voltage irregularities can trigger this code. Inspect wiring and connectors leading to the PCM for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. If the electrical system checks out, perform a PCM reset using a diagnostic tool to clear any temporary glitches. If the code returns, the PCM may require a software update or replacement. Keep us updated!