I have a 1999 durango with a verified defective PCM (engine computer).

I have been told by 2 seperate Dodge service depts. that PCM has a one time (burn-in) program procedure, and cannot be reprogrammed, therefore only replacement can be with a new computer at about $565.00.

Can a used computer with a different vin# work as an economical replacement?

Will this affect other modules that are also vin# burned?

What other modules are vin burned?

Can these problems be avoided by replacing modules together?

I would really appreciate any help from someone who has actually faced this issue. I'm a mechanic, and I can make educated guesses, but I'm looking for some facts to help me through this problem.

Thank you!

Check with your scrap yard they will know. I do know the computer numbers have to match. Same size engine and ect. Most scrap yards give a 30 day warranty so they will tell you.
Rebuilt units are listed on http://www.ebay.com/ for around $199.00 search dodge computer.

The salvage yards, and the dealers both say that the PCM will not work..... because the vin# cannot be re-programmed.

However what I want to know is whether or not a PCM with a different vin# will still operate the vehicle without any adverse reaction since they have bus communication between modules.

2nd I would like to know what modules interact via the bus communications; and if they will not interact with eachother (because of different vin#s); can multiple modules from the same salvage vehicle be replaced as a set to operate properly?

FYI: I know that the dash cluster (speedo/odometer) can be interchanged with no adverse reaction. display odometer mileage is kept in this unit.