[Jthassoul]

Hi all, my ECU is bad and I just realized I bought one that has a code under the part # 39180-23800 that is different from mine. See in the 1st photo (one I bought) the code ending in 4520B? See mine ending in 4520C in the 2nd photo? Does anyone know for sure if this makes a difference (like a version # from timing car was made, etc and that it's IMPORTANT)? Please help! I'm in the Dominican Republic and a nightmare to get good mechanical help where I am. Also if you have experience w/ ECUs...I have a 2010 2.0L Kia Soul Sport. Does this need to be programmed? I did call the Kia dealer in my hometown in FL and they said that only the part # mattered (not this B/C code difference but he didn't really understand the question) and said, yes I need it reprogrammed, but I've read online that I don't. Also if it needs to be reprogrammed, my mechanic said he can/needs to reprogram it but I know his scanner doesn't even have my specific model in it lol! His scanner only finds 2010 Kia Soul and doesn't have the 2.0L option. Do you think he can reprogram it or do I HAVE to take it to the dealer with the car? If you don't know and can point me to anywhere I can get the right answers, I'd greatly appreciate it...the local Kia mechanics aren't an option here lol! THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE HELP!!!!

 

[Jthassoul]

You don't need to program it. I would just plug it in and see if it works.

Thanks Buzz. Do you know much about these? Is it as simple as just plugging it in and if the car works, then it's good to go or is there a chance some electronics still wouldn't work correctly? Appreciate any help...I'm struggling here

 

[Jthassoul]

Usually they are plug and play. Sometimes they will throw a code for a VIN mismatch when not programmed but often they do not nor does that code prevent it from running. There is a chance that the number that is different came on something with different options but there's also a good chance it will work just fine. Plugging it does not take long so go for it and find out how it does and if everything works.

Thanks! Just asking because I don't want it to not be safe to drive haha and also not do any damage to the car. The latest mechanic here says it's the cause of some fuel trim/misfire issues I've been having, so hoping this is the fix..,I had some other electrical issues too. I've changed numerous parts, but he did get the ECU tested and supposedly is bad. Thanks again for the help.