PCM question

[rwcfrank]

Hi all, chasing down a P0443 and have eliminated all components except the PCM. So I went online and found mostly bad reviews of all the PCM reman/rebuilders so I called AutoZone in order to have some protections on my purchase. Before placing the order I called AutoZone and they said their "vendor" would call me to get my VIN and mileage. So I clicked "buy it now" and waited for the vendor to call or email me asking for the information. I then get an email indicating the item was shipped. So my question is this; on a 1997 Mountaineer with a mechanical odometer does the vendor need my VIN to send me a plug and play PCM? I would at least think they would need to know if it was an auto trans or not but the 97 Mounty may have only come with the 5.0, auto trans in AWD.

 

[SoHK_alumni]

Nope, the PCM should be plug and play.

Yes, the vendor could program the target's VIN into the PCM but that's not necessary for function.

If you are subject to stringent emissions inspections, the VIN might be a requirement for the inspection, but that's a state mandate, not a functionality thing.

Any matching (or in truth, near matching) early V8 Expo/Mounty PCM should be able to light off and do the deed.

 

[rwcfrank]

That's great news! I will have to call the smog station since I live in the strictest state in the union, Kalifornia to see if the VIN is going to be a problem. Thanks SoHK very much for your expertise and time!

 

[2000StreetRod]

PCM strategy

The PCM strategy contains a multitude of calibration constants that affect engine performance. I don't know if there were multiple strategies for your year and model of vehicle. I suggest that you confirm the "catch code" on the replacement PCM (CDE4 for my 2000 Sport with SOHC V6) matches the one for the stock PCM.

If not, the PCM should be reprogrammed. This is another reason why the supplier normally needs your VIN. Since the 1997 model did not have PATS you don't have to worry about ignition keys not working with the replacement PCM.

 

[rwcfrank]

Thanks everyone, found the correct of the 2 codes offered by Rockauto and placed my order, will let you know how things work out.

 

[rwcfrank]

Installed the PCM from RockAuto yesterday and the truck fired up faster than normal, everything is running well and my OBDII app is monitoring the diagnostics. So far so good, need a long drive to set all the functions and be prepared for the smog test. Is it possible it was this easy a fix? Fingers crossed.

 

[rwcfrank]

Just wanted to follow up on this post, had an evap code I couldn't clear, previous owner tried a new pcm but it didn't help. I installed a PCM from Rockauto and just passed the smog test yesterday. I suspect the previous owner sent the PCM to be "repaired" but they didn't do anything but send it back and charge $300. Rockauto sends you a "new" PCM and then you return your core. My research shows flaky PCM/ECM companies mostly in New York or Miami. Hope this helps someone else.