In looking for a used XF, I see this phrase in the CarFax fairly often.

Engine/powertrain computer/module replaced

Is there an issue that I have to be concerned with, or are the dealers just billing out more warranty hours?

 

The implication is that the mileage might be suspect, I think. The odometer is stored in one of those modules on new cars. The dealer change out procedure includes a method to update the mileage into the new module, but you never know...

 

It's stored in multiple places and cross-checked but even so can potentially be altered (as can just about anything, when you think about it). Often you can see from servicing records whether there are any suspect mileage numbers. On cars with huge deprciation it's usually not worth trying to gimmick the mileage.

I don't ever buy low mileage cars, as it's generally not mileage that kills cars.

 

It's not the mileage that I have an issue with, but rather this being a sign of some underlying electrical demons that have taken up permanent residence.

Is there some issue that would signal this component is bad?
How would it effect the car?

 

They seem hardly ever to fail. I'd wonder why anyone allegedly had a fault.