Will a used engine computer from another vehicle work in my Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram?

Usually not as it is. On most Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles, the engine computer (the PCM or ECM) is tied to the vehicle it was programmed for in three ways: its immobilizer memory, its VIN and its calibration. A computer from a salvage yard or another vehicle can carry the right part number and still not run your engine.

The immobilizer won’t know your keys

Many of these vehicles have Sentry Key, Chrysler’s immobilizer. Your keys, the immobilizer module and the engine computer share a secret code. A computer from another vehicle holds that vehicle’s code, so it won’t accept your keys.

What you see depends on the model. On many, the engine starts and dies after about two seconds and the security light on the dash flashes. On some newer models the engine won’t crank at all.

A dealer can pair a replacement computer to your keys with their scan tool, but they need your vehicle’s four-digit Sentry Key PIN to do it.

It still has the other vehicle’s VIN

The computer stores the VIN of the vehicle it was programmed for, and a scan tool reads that VIN back. A computer carrying someone else’s VIN shows up as a mismatch the first time a dealer or shop plugs in.

The calibration has to match your vehicle

Computers that look identical are programmed differently for different engines, transmissions and emissions packages. Matching the engine size isn’t enough. Go by the part number on your old computer’s label (here’s where to find it), or by your VIN.

How ours are different

Every engine computer we sell is programmed to your VIN before it ships, and its immobilizer memory is reset so it works with the keys you have now. You bolt it in, connect the plugs and turn the key. No dealer visit, no locksmith. Your vehicle’s own key system still has to be working.

Your VIN gets checked twice: when you enter it on the product page, we match it to the factory calibration, and we check it again before we program the unit.

Find yours by part number or VIN on our home page, or call or text 812-510-3163.