Automobiles are made of many complex mechanisms and components and to keep them running smoothly, it is important to have a working knowledge of how these parts work and what can go wrong. One such component is the PCM, or powertrain control module. Learn how much does it cost to replace a PCM.
If you don’t know what a PCM is, well don’t worry, you are not alone. In short, PCM is a complex computer that monitors and controls many of the engine’s functions, such as fuel delivery, ignition timing, and emissions control.
We will go into further details later in this article, but for now let’s just say that if your PCM goes bad, it can be very costly to replace.
So how much does it cost to replace a PCM? The short answer is, that it depends. The cost of a new PCM can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the features and options that are included. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $1,000 for a new PCM.
Further down, we will be discussing all that you need to know when it comes to replacing a PCM.
How the PCM Works
PCM stands for the powertrain control module. It is a computer that controls and monitors many of the engine’s functions, such as fuel delivery, ignition timing, and emissions control.
The PCM is responsible for monitoring several events that take place in your vehicle’s drive train system. It receives data from a number of sensors located throughout the vehicle, which interact with other components within the drive train system. Based on this input, the PCM makes adjustments to help ensure the optimal operation of these components.
As one example of how this works, the PCM might receive signals from an oxygen sensor telling it that there isn’t enough oxygen in the exhaust fumes entering the catalytic converter. In response to this signal, it may change how long or how much fuel is fed to your engine, depending on the severity of the condition. In this way, it helps maintain a proper balance between fuel mileage and emissions.
Bad PCM Symptoms
In order for all of these components to work together as they should, each must be in good working order and properly calibrated. Since malfunctions within any of these components will inevitably lead to poor performance, it’s important to be on the lookout for any symptoms of a bad PCM.
Some common symptoms of a bad PCM include:
- Erratic or rough engine idle
- Hesitation or stumble when accelerating
- Check engine light is on
- Poor fuel economy
- The vehicle is difficult to start or won’t start at all
If your car’s PCM goes bad, it will need to be replaced. Some of the most common reasons for needing to replace a PCM include water damage, fried circuit boards, or failed sensors.
Also Read: What are the Symptoms of a Bad PCM?
Related Codes
- P0491 – Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1
- P0385 – Crankshaft Position Sensor B Circuit Malfunction
- P0251 – Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control A Malfunction
- P0243 – Turbocharger Wastegate Solenoid A Malfunction
- P0181 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance
PCM Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing a PCM can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the specific type of PCM that needs to be replaced. However, in general, the cost ranges from $400 to $1,000 which should include parts and labor.
The cost of a new PCM can also vary depending on the features and options that are included. For example, a PCM with built-in anti-theft protection or enhanced performance capabilities may be more expensive than one without these features.
If your car’s PCM is damaged as a result of water intrusion, the replacement cost may be higher, as parts and labor will likely both be needed.
Does A New PCM Need To Be Programmed?
However, just because a new PCM has been installed does not mean that it is ready to take over control of your vehicle’s drive train system. In fact, most new PCMs come “blank” and must be programmed in order for them to work properly.
Programming a PCM usually involves inputting specific parameters and calibrations that are unique to your vehicle’s make and model. Without this programming, the new PCM will not be able to properly monitor or adjust all of the events taking place within your car’s drive train.
Therefore, you should always have your new PCM programmed by a professional with manufacturer diagnostic tools at a dealer or shop that specializes in PCM replacement.
How Long Does It Take to Replace a PCM?
When it comes to calculating the total cost of PCM replacement, one factor that needs to be taken into account is the amount of time it will take to complete the job.
Replacing a PCM can be a relatively simple process, but it will depend on your vehicle’s make and model, as well as the specific type of PCM that needs to be replaced. In most cases, the entire process should only take a few hours. However, there are some instances where the replacement process can take considerably longer.
For example, if your car has a built-in computer or if the new PCM needs to be programmed using special tools, then the replacement process could take up to half a day or even more.
Conclusion
Some important things to note before replacing your PCM are to make sure that the parts needed to complete the job are readily available at a reasonable price, that you get an estimate on how long it will take before you agree to have this work done, and that the shop has experience with the type of PCM replacement in question so they can give you their best advice.
After replacing your vehicle’s PCM, if there is anything about its performance or emissions levels which don’t seem right to you after driving it, consider taking it back for them to check out. Most shops will also guarantee their work for 30 days or more. This way, should something go wrong once you get your car back home, you have time to bring it back in without penalty.
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