direland
01-07-2008, 10:47 AM
Can you take the PCM to the dealer to have it reflashed if it is NOT in the vehicle? I got a PCM from a wrecker. The van started but would not keep running. This happened 3 or 4 times...then it would not even turn over.
Can I take the "new" PCM to a dealer along with my VIN and have them reflash it?
Rick99
01-07-2008, 03:31 PM
Probably not. There is a special connector kit available that allows a PCM to be flashed outside the vehicle, but the dealer probably doesn't have it or know how to use it. I don't know what year your van is, but if it has the Sentry Key system (gray key), the dealer will not be able to program a used PCM for your van. You could do an "end run" around this if you get the SKIM, PCM, ignition keys and lock cylinders from a donor van and install them on yours.
It wouldn't hurt to ask the dealer, but if you have the Sentry Key system in your van or the van the PCM came from does, I think you are out of luck and just have to get a new PCM and have it programmed by someone with a DRBIII scan tool (some independents have this tool).
In theory, a dealer could just replace your SKIM (sentry key module, located at the ignition switch) which is cheaper than a new PCM, program it to work with your used PCM, then program some new keys, but I very much doubt that a dealer would want to get that "creative", particularly since it could cause trouble with other modules in the van.
direland
01-07-2008, 06:39 PM
Update. I got a hold of another PCM with the same part number as mine and all is well. Started right up. A return email form a local dealer told me that he can NOT flash a PCM if it is not in the car.
