How to unlock the engine ECU?

The engine ECU is one of the key elements for the operation of the electronic system of sensors and actuators in your car. In certain situations, the computer may freeze momentarily and action must be taken. In this article, you will learn about the role of this mechanical part, as well as our tips for identifying wear symptoms and unlocking it easily.

🚘 What is the role of the engine ECU?

Consisting of an ECU (engine control unit), it has the shape waterproof metal case resistant to all possible weather conditions. Its waterproof coating is essential to maintain electronic connections present in case.

The engine ECU consists of 3 parts, each of which has a specific function: receiving incoming signals, processing incoming data, sending outgoing signals... Its role is to ensure the operation of the electronic elements that make up the engine by converting mechanical influences into electronic signals. V Sensors и drives which make it up allow it, in particular, to control the ignition of the engine, the injection of it, the safety and comfort of the car, by causing the warning light on the dashboard to come on in the event of a problem.

The computer is used, in particular, to control the following items:

• Accelerator pedal sensor;
• Temperature sensors for engine parts;
• Camshaft sensor related to the combustion cycle;
• Exhaust gas recirculation valve to reduce pollutant emissions;
• Throttle body that balances the amount of air required by the engine;
• Glow plugs that allow the fuel / air mixture to ignite.

⚠️ What are the symptoms of the HS engine ECU?

The computer fails very rarely. However, there are some signs that can alert you to a problem with this part:

1. Several lights are burning : on your panel, they light up at the same time;
2. Le TIGHTENED impossible : you cannot start the car and drive onto the road;
3. Low engine speed : its work is slower than usual;
4. Excessive fuel consumption : increases very significantly;
5. TheESP does not work any more ; you lose the trajectory of your vehicle;
6. TheABS not march plus ; the wheels of your car are blocked during hard braking;
7. Loss of engine power : especially felt during acceleration phases;
8. Vehicle instability : appears mainly during overclocking;

In most cases, the engine ECU is simply locked because the cables are no longer connected to each other.

🛠️ How to unlock the engine ECU?

If your car's engine control unit has just stalled, there is very little chance that you will be able to start the engine properly. Follow our guide to unlock it yourself, even if you face such a situation.

Required material:

Protective gloves

Protective glasses

Toolbox

Weight

Step 1. Access the engine ECU.

Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the ECM by referring to your vehicle's service manual.

Step 2: check the condition of the case

Check its general condition, there should be no water seepage or short circuits inside the case.

Step 3. Check

Check all connections to the computer: power cables, integrity and insulation. If some zones are disconnected from the power, reconnect them.

Step 4. Start the car

Place a weight on the ECU frame and try to start the engine again.

💸 How much does it cost to repair an engine ECU?

The engine ECU is the part that has great longevity... It will break in rare and relatively exceptional situations. Most likely, peripheral elements or electrical harnesses connected to it will fail. Indeed, some parts link the computer may shut down due to engine vibration.

Repairing or reprogramming your computer is approaching 150€... However, if it is completely broken, you will need to replace it. The price of a new computer varies from 200 € and 600 € depending on the model and make of your vehicle. To this amount we have to add the cost of labor (about 2 hours of work or 100 euros to be added to the price of the part).

Your vehicle's ECM is an important indicator of the safety and health of your vehicle. He is responsible for many sensors and actuators and, for example, ensures a smooth engine start. If you feel like your engine ECU is failing, don't wait and go to one of our trusted garages to have it repaired!