New/used ECM...now it won't start.

[Qyota]

I replaced the corroded ECM with an OEM ECM (closest part # I could find to the refurbed one that was in there), and now the truck just cranks without firing.

Is this an immobilizer issue? If so, what are my options for getting my keys working with this new-to-me ECM?

Thanks much.

 

[Qyota]

FWIW - everything else seems fine...and the keyless entry still works (not sure if that is tied to the immobilizer circuit).

 

[toytech76]

If the ECU pins were corroded, make sure the harness pins are ok as well. Also make sure you have the right ECU seeing that you got the closest one. Closest doesnt mean it will work

 

[Qyota]

According to Cardone it's the correct one:

http://www.cardone.com/English/club/members/customer/ecat_brands/imageinfo.asp?PARTNUM=721884#

It's the only option for a 1999 4WD A/T w/ Fed emissions.

 

[Qyota]

Just called Toyota service and they said the ECM will need to be programmed to the vehicle. Whatever that means. So, looks like I'm towing it there!

The saga continues...

 

[toytech76]

It shouldnt need to be programmed at all. I can pull another ecu out of another truck, plug it in and away I go. I think they are trying to get you in there to sell you some diag time...

 

[KellyJ]

Just called Toyota service and they said the ECM will need to be programmed to the vehicle. Whatever that means. So, looks like I'm towing it there!

The saga continues...

Man, kudos to you for sticking with the 4Runner. Under all these unfortunate and (mostly) non Toyota related problems is actually a good truck:awais:

 

[Qyota]

It shouldnt need to be programmed at all. I can pull another ecu out of another truck, plug it in and away I go. I think they are trying to get you in there to sell you some diag time...

My 99 has an immobilizer. That's the problem.

 

[Deep_palancar]

If you can get the chipped key that belonged with the donor vehicle, you can make the new ECU learn your key.
There is a gadget that some locksmiths have that connects through the OBDii port to introduce your chipped key to the ECU. Not every locksmith is going to have one because they are not cheap and are specific to each vehicle brand.
Toyota Corporate can and will authorize a 'one time' good faith ECU programming for lost or missing keys since there is no owner method to introduce a new key if the original is lost. Your situation is different but it would be worth the call. 1-800-331-4331

I think that most dealers charge around $500 for this 10 minute procedure.

 

[Qyota]

Man, kudos to you for sticking with the 4Runner. Under all these unfortunate and (mostly) non Toyota related problems is actually a good truck:awais:

Hey, I still love the truck! I have a feeling once I get this sorted out, I'll have very few problems in the future.

 

[Qyota]

More fun! I'm having an e-mail conversation with the service manager at my local Toyota service shop, regarding the ability to re-program the 1999 ECM. He says there isn't a way to re-program the used ECM for the '99 models. Later models had that option, though.

So, I'm glad I haven't paid for that service yet! But, I'm kinda back to square one. He made it sound like a "new" ECM could be programmed to the existing keys...which would be fine by me. He didn't mention the cost, but I found a remanufactured ECM for about $260 online...which I assume would be "ready" to accept keys.

Trying to keep a positive attitude here...but why did Toyota make this such a complicated system? And why didn't they make it so the immobilizer could be bypassed (assuming one had the master key, proof of ownership, etc.)?

 

[KellyJ]

Hey, I still love the truck! I have a feeling once I get this sorted out, I'll have very few problems in the future.

I'm glad that a few unfortunate problems don't distort your view of Toyota vehicles as a whole

 

[Qyota]

Update:

Automotive locksmith is coming out tomorrow to flash the used ECM to get it into auto-registration mode. If that works, my keys will then be programmed.

Both dealers in town said it can't be done. We shall see...

Wish me luck!

 

[DavidAlexander]

Update:

Automotive locksmith is coming out tomorrow to flash the used ECM to get it into auto-registration mode. If that works, my keys will then be programmed.

Both dealers in town said it can't be done. We shall see...

Wish me luck!

Bon Chance!

Remember that Toyota NA does a one time FREE ecm swap for lost keys. If the locksmith doesn't work, try calling corporate and see where you can get.

 

[Jordan Petry]

Whats the number? I tried calling a couple times about my seat belt but got no good answers...maybe I'm just calling the wrong number! :bigok:

 

[Qyota]

Bon Chance!

Remember that Toyota NA does a one time FREE ecm swap for lost keys. If the locksmith doesn't work, try calling corporate and see where you can get.

I've read that's for the original owner only...but it's worth a shot if all else fails.

 

[DavidAlexander]

I've read that's for the original owner only...but it's worth a shot if all else fails.

The story I read about was a couple that had bought their 99 used with only one key and lost it. The only reason they had a problem was because it ended up being a Canadian vin and Toyota Canada wouldn't do the free switch.

It would certainly suck it they wouldn't help future owners out, but who knows?

 

[Qyota]

SUCCESS!!

Adam from AJT Lock & Key (Madison, WI) came out bright and early this morning.

I had my new-to-me ECM ready for flashing. He took it to his truck and did his magic! We hooked it up, programmed the keys, and it starts and runs GREAT!

Thanks everyone for your help! Now, just need to fix the leak, and I'm 100% again.

So much for the dealer being right. If anyone has problems like this in the future, just call a mobile locksmith who has the right tools. It can be done! In all, the cost of the used ECM plus the labor to flash and program keys, I'm only out about $400. Not too bad, I think.

 

[DavidAlexander]

SUCCESS!!

Adam from AJT Lock & Key (Madison, WI) came out bright and early this morning.

I had my new-to-me ECM ready for flashing. He took it to his truck and did his magic! We hooked it up, programmed the keys, and it starts and runs GREAT!

Thanks everyone for your help! Now, just need to fix the leak, and I'm 100% again.

So much for the dealer being right. If anyone has problems like this in the future, just call a mobile locksmith who has the right tools. It can be done! In all, the cost of the used ECM plus the labor to flash and program keys, I'm only out about $400. Not too bad, I think.

YEAH.....It's good that everything worked out.

Kudos to Locksmith technology! :biggrin2: