Service
ECU repair and programming
Bench-level repair, cloning and programming of engine and body control units.
The engine control unit (ECU) is the computer that runs your engine. When it is damaged by water, heat, voltage spikes or age, the vehicle may not start, may run poorly or may lose features.
We work on control units at component level on the bench, with purpose-built programming interfaces and probe equipment. Where a unit can be repaired we repair it; where it must be replaced we can clone or program the replacement so it matches your vehicle.
Problems this service addresses
- Vehicle will not start and the ECU is suspected
- ECU damaged by water, heat or a jump-start error
- Replacement ECU needs programming to the vehicle
- Communication errors with the engine or body module
- Repeat faults that return after parts have been replaced
How the work is done
- 1
Confirm the module is the problem
We test the inputs, outputs and power supplies first. Many suspected ECU faults are wiring or sensor faults.
- 2
Bench inspection
The unit is opened and inspected under magnification; the board is tested with a probe rig.
- 3
Repair, clone or program
Depending on the finding we repair the board, clone the data to a replacement, or program a new unit.
- 4
Vehicle test
The unit is refitted and the vehicle tested to confirm the fault is resolved.
Questions about this service
Can you repair my ECU rather than replace it?
Often, yes. We inspect and test the unit on the bench first. If the damage is repairable at component level, repair is usually quicker and cheaper than replacement. If not, we can program a replacement unit.