Replacing a S60 ECM unit
 

Hi,

Recently a fault came in my S60 ECM unit and I was asked to replace it. For that, I took the part number details of the current ECM unit and brought down a matching ECM unit from an online spare part dealer.

Then the Volvo mechanic said that they have to purchase ECM software from Volvo Sweden and upload it. Even though he tried to upload the software to the new ECM unit, it got rejected. The mechanic says the ECM unit is matching to my car. But he says that he's unable to install the software into the new ECM, because it looks like that particular ECM is a previously used one and software is already written to that.

Is there anybody in this forum, who has replaced an ECM unit of Volvo S60? This is a 2002/2003 model. Could anybody kindly answer below questions for me to understand what I can do to take my car back on feet?

1. Is it necessary to get a Brand New ECM to replace? Can a used ECM unit be fixed to a S60?

2. Does it necessary to upload the software to the S60?

3. Is there configuration to be done after installing the new ECM?

4. When changing an ECM, does it need to replace keys, key barrels and some other units in the car?

5. There are Brand new ECM units to purchase for US$ 2000 from the agent or US$ 1000 in Internet or used ones for US $120 in Internet. Will those used ones work, provided the device is in working condition? Is there anything special to do when replacing the ECM with a matching used ECM?

6. What should I look to find a matching ECM, if I try to source it from other than the Volvo agent to save cost?

Any help would be highly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

- Eranga

Yes you need a brand new ECM unit that only a certified Volvo dealer can order and install. It's a massive pain to have to replace one but unfortunately that's how it goes. The ECM is mated to your car at the factory and so you can't use another car's ECM in yours. Keys and that sort of thing should remain the same though because the Volvo dealer can program that into the new ECM when they mate it to your car. Its an expensive job but its the only option there is really. Best of luck.

Thanks for your reply.

Do you know the cost of a brand new ECM?

i know that some people have sent there ecm to be fixed. but i belive it has to be the original ecm of the vehicle . The only thing is u need to be carefull when getting upgrades after they fix them.

just asking what was the faults and problem with tha vehicle that the ecm needs to be replaced

I read it can be anywhere from $1200 to $2500, depending on what kind of mood the dealer is in, how far away from Sweden you are, whether you're a teenager or very old, and of course the damage that a bad ECM could have done to your car. I've never heard of them being able to fix one, I would imagine you would have to be a very close friend with everyone at Volvo before they'd even be willing to try that seeing as they wouldn't make as much money.

:-)

Well, yeah. The local Volvo agent says they can only install a Brand New ECM, so it looks like I'm stuck with that option. Now I'm trying to find the actual cost of a ECM, so that I can bargain with the agent to lower the price, if they're trying to charge me too high.

Tks for your info.

TascaParts.com has the ECM for $927.00

Are you from the Part Vendor? If yes, could you confirm,

1. Is this a Brand New ECM?

2. Will this match to the S60 with chassis no: YV1RS49K2322787183. My original ECM has below part numbers4. Do I need to change any other part in the vehicle, when I change the ECM to your equipment?

5. Do you give money back guarantee if the ECM doesn't match?

Tascaparts.com is the internet parts arm of Tasca Automotive Group which is an authorized Volvo Dealer in Rhode Island. So they would be doing the same exact thing that your local dealer would do but at a lower overall cost.

If you provide them with your VIN they can upload all the software for you and ship you the ECM. IIRC, all you need to do is provide proof of ownership.

I have ordered many things from Tasca and they are a solid dealer with great service and prices. They also have a VERY good reputation in the Volvo enthusiast community.

Thanks for your suggestions. I have contacted Tascaparts to check the compatibility of the part with my S60. The only doubt is I'm from Sri Lanka and this is a S60 imported brand new from Sweden to Sri Lanka. I think VIN numbers are only used in US and rest of the world uses Chassis Number, which is what in my vehicle as given in my previous post.

Does anybody know what's the relationship between VIN and Chassis No?

you need the VIN number. The last 6 numbers of the VIN number is the chassis number.

All cars have VIN numbers, it should be at the left corner of the dash in your volvo.

From what you mentioned my vehicle VIN number should be: YV1RS49K232278718

This is mentioned on top of the engine and close to the windscreen, embossed in the metal vehicle body.

However, as I said this is a Sweden made car and not North American made. Hope there's no difference in the vehicle parts and software.

you are being stubborn, ALL CARS HAVE VIN NUMBERS :mad:

chinese cars, japanese cars, indian cars, american cars, european cars etc, GET IT:p

:)

Well I'm not being stubborn. From what you mentioned VIN should be what I sent. Pls see below.

Meaning of YV1RS49K232278718

YV1 - Manufacturer Code
R - Vehicle Type = S60
S - Doors = S60
49 - Engine Type = B5204T5
K - Emission = KOD: EM L4
2 - Gearbox = M56 manual gearbox
3 - Model Year = 2003
2 - Factory Code
278718 - Chassis Number

The American Volvos are made in Sweden. The Sri Lanka Volvos are also made in Sweden. Therefore, your car has a Vin number that Volvo makes replacement parts for. I'm sure the parts are interchangeable as they come from the same assembly lines.

Thanks for the reply.

So the VIN must be YV1RS49K232278718. This is the number we use to identify the vehicle here, even though we don't call it VIN.

However one of the Volvo parts dealer in US checked this number in their system and he was unable to locate the car details. He says he doubts if this is VIN. :confused:

That's the VIN alright, but because your car is not a US spec car, it won't be in any of the US databases. I'm thinking that you'll have to get the ECM through a local dealer that has access to your specific specs of your car.

Just about all Volvo's are made in Sweden and Belgium. Some parts are interchangeable but keep in mind there will be subtle differences between the markets and the there specific requirements (ie: emissions, Right hand drive ect...)

2009 Volvo S60 ECM issue
 

Okay so we have replaced the following so far:
fuel pressure sensor, MAF, trunk modular, fuel pump and now the technician is saying it’s the ECM. If we buy from Tascaparts.com do we still have to have the new one programmed?