Important Information on Ecu issues (850,S70 series)

meteg · Post by **meteg** » 04 Dec 2008, 11:24

Hello,

since a while I have been having some engine and fuel issues , which I couldnt find out.. today I removed the transmission,engine and ignition control modules from my car to see how they are.. and I soon realized these control modules have black deposits on their contacts causing resistance on current flow and therefore causing MIL light to come on or other driving or igniton and even shifting issues.
this is the link for the picture taken today to let everyone see how badly corroded the connectors are.
after the cleaning process the difference was huge making me really shocked..
I wanted everyone to know about this issue in case you have any weird problems with the cars engine,ignition or auto trans
they need to be cleaned and be free of any deposits in order to let the current flow through the connectors..

chuckcintron · Post by **chuckcintron** » 04 Dec 2008, 11:32

...and don't forget you are dealing with a computer so if you decide to clean these connectors make sure you use the proper electrostatic handling procedures. I'd avoid touching them unless you are certain they needed to be cleaned.

-Chuck

meteg · Post by **meteg** » 04 Dec 2008, 11:37

Hello again,

you are right about that.. I have a special cleaner for them.. otherwise I wouldnt touch them.. remembering the car is now 13 years old corrosion and oxidation in wires and connectors is a usual problem. this topic is only for giving information which might help others if they are having weird problems and especially when the cars MIL light is not coming on yet..

5sobs5 · Post by **5sobs5** » 04 Dec 2008, 15:18

Hi, I have a question. How do you open the module box? I'm not sure and don't want to break it. Thanks.

meteg · Post by **meteg** » 04 Dec 2008, 16:00

to open the control module box first locate the two clips at the left and right of the control module box cover, then putting a screwdriver or your finger under the metallic clip and pull it the left, then pull the right clip to the right to remove the cover but I recommend you to use a screwdriver to remove the clips easily to free the cover.

note: before removing any of the control modules make sure the ignition is off and least 10 minutes of time has passed.otherwise you might damage the control modules easily.

I hope this info helps..

5sobs5 · Post by **5sobs5** » 05 Dec 2008, 09:31

Thanks Meteg for the response. Mine has a 1 inch metal strap securring the module box. Sort of running in a diagonal from right rear toward the left front. Again thanks.

Post by **tailor** » 05 Dec 2008, 15:12

Meteg

Out of curiosity what product and method did you use to clean your contacts?

meteg · Post by **meteg** » 05 Dec 2008, 16:31

Hello,

I have been using a contact cleaner which most electronic repair shops use.and I have been using a flat small screwdriver to remove the deposits but I have been putting a cloth under the screwdriver to avoid damaging the connectors and then rubbing the screwdriver up and down slowly.

maybe not a very professiona method, however there has a been a significiant improvement after I ran the car when the cleaning process is over.

RustyH · Post by **RustyH** » 06 Dec 2008, 06:04

HI Meteg: Your picture suggests that you removed the ECU from the car. I hope this isn't a silly question, but does it have to be reprogrammed when you do that? I assume not.
A few months back, I took apart most electrical connections I could see in the engine compartment and sprayed w/ electronic cleaner and then let them dry. My slight idle dip when coming to a stop resolved, and it feels a little more responsive.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Dec 2008, 07:36

ECU's: No reprogramming required when you pull them from your car. I have 2 for my S70...one that is original and one that is tuned by IPD. I can swap them out anytime I want to without issue. I don't even have to have the battery disconnected...just have to have key out of ignition for a few minutes.