I have a used ECU that is the correct part number and VIN range for my 2000 XK8 Coupe. I do not know if the options were the same or if it was from a coupe (odds are it was not).


As I understand it I should be able to have the dealer reset the "immobilizer" so that it can be used. A couple of questions.


I tried the replacement ECU "as is" and the car will crank but not start. The dealer tech seemed surprised it would crank. Should the cranking also be inhibited ?


If I get the replacement ECU reset by the dealer so that it works, will my old ECU still work?


I like the idea of having a spare ECU that can quickly be swapped in. My current one may be OK, but there are some gremlins that might indicate it is bad which is why I would like to try the spare one.


As far as a complete reflash of the replacement ECU including VIN change, I read on this forum that can only be done on 2004 and later. I notice that the Mongoose V130 cannot be used for programming early XK8 modules which would seem to confirm that. Is that correct ?

 

Cranking is OK, injectors etc inhibited.

You may get it into anti-theft and then may need a tow.

Why are you doing it?????????

 

Considering giving it a try if I eliminate everything else. The dealer tech said last time they ran into a similar situation where a Jag would not complete monitors (Comprehensive, EVAP and CATS) a new ECU cured it. However, it is last on my list.

 

EVERY time the ECM is installed in a car it will need to have the 'immobilization setup' completed TO THAT CAR!!!!!!!!!!

Once the ECM is set to THAT CAR it will no longer function in a previous car without an IMMO SETUP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! An ECM is ONLY recognized by ONE NETWORK!!!!!!!!!!

Think of it as introducing a new computer to a network.
IF you transfer that computer to another network, NONE of the other computers recognize that computer UNTIL you configure it to THAT particular network.
It's kinda like setting the passphrase to the new network.

bob gauff

 

I sent my fried ecm to a.s.i. in tennessee. they were able to repair it .got it back and pluged it in .the car runs great .they can check your unit and tell you if it needs repair for a very small cost .Gus and others swear by them and they are very nice to deal with. beats the cost of a re flash any day.if you would like the # pm me .all the best Dan L

 

ASI repaired my ECU also and quickly for a reasonable amount. I definitely recommend them.


Dave

 

Certainly makes sense, but would my old (original) ECU still work assuming the replacement ECU could be "married" properly to my car ? Or would the TCU, BCM, etc then only recognize the new ECU ?


I will say all the GM ECU and TCU are so much easier to work with!!!!!! (or perhaps just that the aftermarket support is so much better).

 

Yeah but they're easier to steal, too. Jag immo is great.

 

I had a 87 Xk8 and it had all sorts of error codes when it acted it. Had ASI do my ecm, fixed all issues the car was presenting, the dude I sold the car too lives near me, he bought it in 2010 or so, no issues since. It was my understand that the 97-99 units were prone to failure making it seem stuff like the TB or ABS, etc were busted.

 

May I please have a link to A.S.I.? I can't seem to find them with a goggle search.

 

Here you go https://autoecu.com/
Automotive Scientific Inc in Tennessee.