PCM (Powertrain Control Module) Repair
As PCMs are utilised in millions of vehicles worldwide, they’re inevitably mass produced. Unfortunately, many PCMs are subject to design flaws or the inclusion of low quality internal components, leading to malfunction - thankfully, this is often repairable.
As the common root cause of failure is internal to the control module, your vehicle’s warning lights and running symptoms won’t clear unless the PCM has been replaced or properly repaired.
Powertrain Control Module – clearing the confusion.
The terms PCM (Powertrain Control Module), ECU (Engine Control Unit) and ECM (Engine Control Module) can sometimes be used as interchangeable phrases for the same thing - a control unit for the engine/transmission system.
Depending on who is speaking will often depend on which term is used: manufacturers, vehicle sales, mechanics, auto-technicians, electronic engineers and the general public; each will often call the same thing by a different name.
However, there are key differences between these electronic modules and the function they provide. Put plainly, control modules that electronically manage the engine and/or transmission systems can be defined as follows:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) – This is a combined engine and transmission control unit which will provide management of both the engine and transmission systems from one control unit.
ECU (Engine Control Unit) / ECM (Engine Control Module) – This is an electronic control unit that manages the engine only. Encompassing associated sensors, actuators, fuel injection, ignition and ancillaries of the engine.
TCU (Transmission Control Unit) / TCM (Transmission Control Module) – This is a control unit that manages the transmission system and associated sensors, switches, actuators and solenoids. All auto, semi-auto and dual clutch manual transmissions have a TCU/TCM.
So, the difference is that a 'PCM' controls both the engine and transmission system, whereas an 'ECU/ECM' or 'TCM' controls only one of these systems.
Signs of a PCM issue
The most common sign of PCM failure is an illuminated engine warning light. However, as the PCM is responsible for such a wide array of functions on the vehicle, failure symptoms vary greatly from case to case.
A frequent indication that your PCM needs to be repaired is poor engine performance. This includes misfires, poor idle or a complete failure to start the engine. Don’t overlook poor fuel economy or a loss of acceleration either, as this can also indicate PCM failure.
How to get your PCM repaired
It might seem like a straight forward solution to replace the PCM with new, however this isn’t the most cost-effective option. A rebuild or repair of the PCM will save you significant time and money, but, these are two very different things.
A PCM repair aims to quickly restore functionality by switching out a few faulty components. Whereas a PCM rebuild completely reworks the control module internally to eliminate the fault for good.
Our technicians are experts at rebuilding powertrain control modules with higher-than-OEM-standard components so that they’re repaired to last. We’ll even cover your rebuild with unlimited-mile lifetime warranty – unlike many other PCM repair options.
Find PCMs and ECUs we often rebuild for popular manufacturers below. If you’re unable to find the PCM or ECU you require a repair for, browse our product catalogue for our entire range.
Commonly failing PCMs requiring repair:
Fujitsu 1AZ-FE
This PCM is commonly fitted to second-generation Toyota RAV4 vehicles and causes harsh gear changes and an illuminated engine light when it malfunctions. This PCM may also be found on some Toyota Avensis and Picnic vehicles with a 2L petrol engine. Click below to repair these symptoms with unlimited-mile warranty included.
Common failure symptoms:
- Harsh gear shift
- Gears banging into place
- Jerky gear selection
- Engine management light on
Common fault codes:
- P0755 – Shift Solenoid B Malfunction
- P0758 – Shift Solenoid B Circuit Electrical
- P0750 – Shift Solenoid A Malfunction
- P0753 – Shift Solenoid A Circuit Electrical
Engine ECUs from popular manufacturers we rebuild:
Cadillac
When the engine ECU fails, Cadillac owners experience running issues like misfires and cutting out, until the malfunction materialises into a complete engine non start.
Click here to browse our full Cadillac rebuild range.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet vehicles are fitted with a wide range of engine ECUs and failure symptoms vary. Thankfully, we can rebuild many of them – find your vehicle below to begin your rebuild.
Click here to browse our full Chevrolet rebuild range.
Chrysler
Engine control modules fitted to Chryslers commonly cause misfires when they fail. When the Chrysler Ypsilon’s ECU malfunctions, you’ll usually find codes like P0300, P0302 and P0304 stored for misfires.
Click here to browse our full Chrysler rebuild range.
Dodge
We most commonly rebuild ECUs for Dodge vehicles with 2L diesel engines. ECU malfunction typically causes running issues like a drastic loss of power and no engine start.
Click here to browse our full Dodge rebuild range.
Ford
We rebuild a huge range of Ford control modules, here are just three popular ones:
DCM3.5
This engine ECU will cause the engine to cut out whilst driving, eventually preventing the vehicle from starting. This control module is commonly found on Mondeo, Kuga, S-Max, Galaxy and Focus vehicles.
5SF
This ECU is found on the Mk2 Ford KA and causes the vehicle to misfire when it malfunctions. Internal failures within the control module also cause a loss of engine power and a host of misfire-related fault codes to store. Learn more about this Ford KA issue here.
Affected Vehicles:
- KA (Mk2) 2008-2014
SIM22
You’ll find this engine ECU commonly fitted to Mk5 Fiestas as well as the Ford Fusion. Unfortunately, this control module also malfunctions and causes misfire issues. This failure is typically accompanied by an ‘EAC FAIL’ message and speedo failure.
Click here to browse our full Ford rebuild range.
Jeep
We rebuild ECUs for a range of different Jeep engine types, including both diesels and petrols. As such, failure symptoms vary but typically the Jeep will run poorly and diagnostic communication with the ECU won’t be possible.
Click here to browse our full Jeep rebuild range.
Test and rebuild:
We always thoroughly test control modules before and after the rebuild process. Our talented techs examine your unit on state-of-the-art testing rigs, which simulate real-world driving conditions. This ensures your fully-rebuilt ECU is ready for action when you receive it back.
Programming:
All programming information previously stored in your control module when you sent it to us is preserved throughout our process. This means you can refit it straight back to your vehicle when you receive it.
Quality:
Thanks to our company-wide commitment to continuous improvement, our defect rate currently sits at just 0.49%. This has helped us become the choice of automotive remanufacturing services for industry specialists worldwide.
Warranty:
Lifetime unlimited mileage*
How do I get my unit rebuilt?
To pay for the rebuild click the Shop Now link above, select your part number and click: Get yours rebuilt.
Print the payment/booking confirmation email.
Package the PCM inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received we will test, rebuild and return your repaired PCM with an unlimited mileage lifetime warranty. (if your unit turns out not to be faulty then we will refund your payment less a small testing fee and return shipping)
What if I don’t want to pay up front?
This is not a problem, if you prefer this option then follow the following steps:
Fill in and submit this test form.
Print the booking confirmation email.
Package the PCM inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box).
Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).
Once received, we will test your PCM and call you to advise on the outcome of testing, if your control module is faulty and you choose to go ahead with the rebuild then we will take payment over the phone using a debit/credit card.
We will then rebuild your PCM and return it to you with an unlimited mileage warranty.
If you require further information regarding this PCM repair then please contact us.