Will a used ECM work on these cars? Dealer says that they can not be reprogramed ? they want 1300.00 for ECM

 

Inquire with RPM Motorsport in Vancouver, BC. They have ads on Feebay.

 

I will look into it. Thanks

 

Thats right. BMW/MINI can not reprogramm used ECUs for another car.

The Dealer-Software does not allow change of the EWS codes, also it is not possible to rewrite the VIN in the ECU.


With some third party tools (most illegal) it is possible with some effort.

 

this can be done... does required some specialty tools though... try one of the tuners

 

What would i need to do? If i didn't want to spend the 1300.00, I might just part the car out, looks to have a newer CVT auto trans.

 

Well, according to RPM Motorsport in Victoria, BC (not Vancouver, sorry), you send the ECM, EWS (immobilizer) and key from your MINI, plus the used ECM you want to use, and they do their magic, making them all talk to each other, probably in German. They quoted me right around $ 400.00 USD. NOTE: I haven't done this yet...can't be without a car right now, but it IS my plan.

 

Sounding better.

 

I've had the same problem. If you have access to the car that the ECU came from you'll need to change the EWS (bolted to the firewall just over your left foot) and the tumbler from the ignition switch so you can use the key from the other car . The car will run with these changes but you'll either have to use the old key for the remote key functions or you'll have to get body computer programmed to accept the key that matches the new EWS.

 

I have not bought a used ECM yet. Now at least i know what to look for.Should i just part it out and look for a manual trans car .This has the CVT auto, Which has been replaced.
Thanks

 

honestly, it might be more economical to get a ECM reprogrammed and get the car running... sell it and then get your 6-speed manual. To convert the CVT over to manual might take 5-6k easily :( Just my 2 cents...