Engine control modules replaced on a newer car

I've recently bought this pre-owned car, which is a 2014 model. Despite being a newer car, it has developed some serious engine problems. One day, I was driving a relatively long distance of about 50 miles. It started having troubles so I took it to the dealership. They had the powertrain control module and the engine control unit replaced. I'm very concerned about the vehicle as it is fairly new and both engine modules have been replaced already. I guess I need your advice. Should I keep the car or sell it? What kind of problems can I expect in the future if I keep the car?
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there. These modules are common failures on the Jaguar XF. I am sure that this does not make you feel any better about it, but from my experience, once the modules are replaced you usually do not have any further issues, assuming that new factory modules were used. Many times these modules fail due to voltage issues in the electrical system, so it is important to always make sure that the battery and alternator are good and that all do the ground connections are clean and tight. Your car should be fine for now, but if it begins to have drivability issues, you may want to start looking to sell the car.

How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?

Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :

An engine control unit (ECU), also called an engine control module (ECM), is a device which controls multiple systems of an internal combustion engine in a single unit. Systems commonly controlled by an ECU include the fuel injection and ignition systems.
The powertrain control module, aka PCM, is your vehicle`s brain. It manages the engine, transmission and other systems based on information it receives from various sensors around the vehicle.
Using an ECM from another vehicle can result in compatibility issues, as the new ECM may not be able to communicate properly with the other engine and transmission components. This can lead to a variety of problems, including poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.
ECM controls the engine, ie ignition timing, fuel injection, , any engine control function. BCM controls the interior and exterior functions of the car. AC, heater, wipers, interior lights, exterior lights and many others.
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) – This is a combined engine and transmission control unit which will provide management and correct function of the engine and transmission from one control unit. ECU (Engine Control Unit) / ECM (Engine Control Module) – This is an electronic control unit that manages the engine only.
Not to mention, if you go the route of replacing your faulty PCM, you`re able to save cost on labor by simply replacing it yourself. All you have to do is make sure you identify the correct PCM for your particular vehicle—because there are a lot of different types and you want to avoid unnecessary returns.
A failed PCM or TCM can cause the car to get stuck in gear, which can be a serious safety issue. It can also lead to costly transmission damage.
But the ECM (all by itself) can do nothing. It first must be programmed. These are the instructions the engineers have given it so it can perform its primary function — maintain the vehicle`s emissions levels.
As for the ECM, while most of the time, it might not require a replacement, it will need to be reprogrammed. In case it does need to be replaced, know that a new ECM comes with a standard set of programs with pre-determined efficiency.
An electronic control unit (ECU), also known as an electronic control module (ECM), is an embedded system in automotive electronics that controls one or more of the electrical systems or subsystems in a car or other motor vehicle.
The unit we`ll discuss today is the BCM – your vehicle most definitely has one.
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 control module is usually located behind the center console side trim panels. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove both center console side trim panels to gain access to the module.
The least invasive way to diagnose your ECM is to connect an onboard diagnostic (OBD or OBD II) tool to the diagnostic port. From there, you can scan to see if your engine computers have produced any error codes. There are many of these codes, and your diagnostic tool`s manual should have information on what they mean.
But what if the ECM of your vehicle is damaged beyond repair? Well, in that case, you have three options: brand new, used, and remanufactured.
Testing the PCM with a multimeter is an effective way to troubleshoot and diagnose problems in your vehicle`s electrical system. However, it is important to use caution when performing these tests, as improper handling of the multimeter can cause permanent damage to your car`s wiring or other components.
The engine control module (ECM), also referred to as the engine control unit (ECU), is the engine`s computer that controls engine performance. It also collects information from the other sensors in your vehicle and monitors the ​​fuel-to-air ratio and engine timing.
A bad ECM may lead to a vehicle that won`t or is difficult to start. If the ECM fails completely, it will leave the vehicle without engine management control, and will not start or run as a result. The engine may still crank, but it will not be able to start without the vital inputs from the computer.
The engine control module (ECM), also referred to as the engine control unit (ECU), is the engine`s computer that controls engine performance. It also collects information from the other sensors in your vehicle and monitors the ​​fuel-to-air ratio and engine timing.
ECM is an abbreviation for the engine control module. The powertrain control module is referred to as the PCM. ECMs are in charge of regulating the engine. PCMs are in charge of controlling the powertrain.
A bad ECM may lead to a vehicle that won`t or is difficult to start. If the ECM fails completely, it will leave the vehicle without engine management control, and will not start or run as a result. The engine may still crank, but it will not be able to start without the vital inputs from the computer.

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Engine control modules replaced on a newer car
ANSWER : Hi there. These modules are common failures on the Jaguar XF. I am sure that this does not make you feel any better about it, but from my experience, once the modules are replaced you usually do not have any further issues, assuming that new factory modules were used. Many times these modules fail due to voltage issues in the electrical system, so it is important to always make sure that the battery and alternator are good and that all do the ground connections are clean and tight. Your car should be fine for now, but if it begins to have drivability issues, you may want to start looking to sell the car.

transmission control module failing. We just replaced the computer module (pcm) 4 days ago?
ANSWER : The P0700 trouble code is a code for transmission control module (TCM) failure. Without knowing the other codes, it will not be possible to give you an accurate answer; it all depends on the other codes:

If you get a P0755 code, you may have a transmission solenoid pack issue.
P0725 indicates a likely crank position sensor issue.

I would suggest having your Check Engine Light diagnosed by a qualified mechanic.

Should I buy an Acura tl 2009 with an engine replacement at 70k miles?
ANSWER : If a used engine was installed, to make a wise decision you would need to know exactly how many miles were accumulated on that used engine PRIOR to its transplant to the car that you are looking at. However, if a "new" engine was installed, then you might have the opposite of a red flag which is a good deal but even that depends on whether the "new" engine was actually properly installed according to the instructions. The only real "red flags" in a car purchase are collision damage (whether such damage is repaired or not stay away), rust, abuse, and lack of maintenance. Consequently, the mere fact that a "part", even a part as big as "the engine", was replaced is not important. What is important is whether the part was PROPERLY installed and, in your particular circumstance, if the part was "used", exactly how many miles were on it prior to installation in the present car? And, of course, is the engine presently functioning well (it can be tested and evaluated, to some extent, during an inspection).

With regard to any used car purchase, you want to confirm that the vehicle has NEVER been in a collision (Carfax might be helpful) and that the vehicle does not have any outstanding recall-related repairs. Apart from that, inasmuch as used car repair, maintenance, and restoration costs are highly dependent on the actual, as found, condition of the vehicle, the only way to get a reasonably precise estimate of costs you might face, and also to protect yourself in the transaction, is to request a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. That inspection, carried out by a certified Mechanic, dispatched to your location, will give you the exact data you need to make an intelligent, informed decision about any car. If you look at the just cited link for YourMechanic’s inspection service, you will see a long list of the vehicle systems that must be inspected as well as details of YourMechanic’s inspection methodology. If you need further help, please do not hesitate for a moment to re-contact YourMechanic and we will assist you further in your attempts to make a wise used vehicle purchase.

I have a 2010 camry. I just recently replaced the engine with a 2014 camry engine. Now I have Four engine lights on. I replaced on
ANSWER : If you swapped the engine from a vehicle that is 4 years newer than the car is then you are going to have electrical and sensor incompatibilities that may not be able to be fixed by just a few sensor replacements. There were many changes in computer and emission related items between 2010 and 2014 engines. I would recommend having a mechanic like one from YourMechanic come to you and compare the two engines to isolate the possible differences and see if the problem can be fixed.

Would like to replace entire engine block on my car. 2000 Chevrolet Impala
ANSWER : Hi there – the most straightforward way to replace (and even upgrade!) your existing engine, is to simply purchase and install a "crate" engine from GM. These are new motors, with a warranty serviced by any GM dealer, which come in an astound number of configurations, from stock, period-correct bolt in replacements, to high performance replacements for increased power. Let your checkbook be your guide. Crate engines are available, to your door, from after market suppliers like Jegs and Summit Racing. Your neighborhood service center or mechanic can then install it for you, and you’re back on the road! Unfortunately, this is not a service YourMechanic offers at this time. Thanks for thinking of us though!

Reduced engine power and car shuts off
ANSWER : Hi there. If there is carbon build up on the valves in the engine then that can cause a rough running condition and even a check engine light but that will not usually cause the vehicle to stall. It sounds like you have another issue going on here. From my experience with this vehicle most of the time this is caused by a voltage issue. Most of the time it is a loose or dirty ground connection or an issue with the ignition switch. I usually start by scanning the computer for codes to see what is coming up as that can assist in finding the issue. If the codes do not help then the electrical system would need to be diagnosed to see where the power is being lost. If you need to have this looked at, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to you to [diagnose why the check engine light is on and why the vehicle is stalling] https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-stalling-inspection

Check engine light refuses to go off after engine replaced
ANSWER : Hello there, you have a long series of issues going on with your 2013 Hyundai Sonata. If you keep getting a repeating oil light on than there is likely a fault in that system.

Since this fault has lasted after the engine was replaced it could be a oil pressure sensor, wiring harness fault, ECU fault, oil pump, oil strainer clogged, or low oil pressure.

To diagnose this issue properly you need a complete vehicle inspection to start from square one and identify the root cause of all this.

The engine of the car runs, but when I push the gas pedal it does not accelerate, and the engine does not rev.
ANSWER : Hello. It sounds like you may have an issue with your throttle position sensor. This sensor sends a reference voltage to your power-train control module, which uses that to determine ignition timing and fuel trims. If the power-train control module is not detecting the proper signal from the throttle position sensor, the engine may not accelerate properly. It’s probably a good idea for you to have a professional mobile mechanic come to your location and complete a car is slow to accelerate inspection first, so they can pinpoint what is causing this issue to occur and they will recommend the right repairs be completed.