Hi all,

Since the ECU of my Punto JTD in the past has been badly repaired or modded, it's now totally broken and I need to replace it. Btw. my Punto is a mk2, 1.9 80 BHP/59 kW version, engine code 188A2 and the ECU is a Bosch 0281001955.

I know for the mk1 Punto (red key) it is necessary to change the ECU, all locks and the keys to keep them matching. But my mk2 doesn't have the red key system. I can get a complete set of ECU, all locks, all keys and the code card.

What I'd like to know and couldn't find the answers for (well maybe I've not searched enough so forgive me) is:
- Can I change the ECU for a used identical one from another car?
- Can the dealer reprogram the ECU to accept my keys?
- Do I need to change the locks/keys?
- Might the "double key" trick work? (I mean, use the original key and locks but tape the new key to the original one to get the immobilizer to accept the code). I'm asking this because it would enable me to get the car to the garage for proper reprogramming.
- Are there any other important things to take into account?

What I'd like to know and couldn't find the answers for (well maybe I've not searched enough so forgive me) is:
- Can I change the ECU for a used identical one from another car?
No, on a Mk2 the vehicle uses code 2 and the body computer and key transponders and engine ecu are matched
- Can the dealer reprogram the ECU to accept my keys?
No
- Do I need to change the locks/keys?
If you fit a used ecu you will need to change the body computer and the locks(keys) and the ecus must be from an exact same spec car, any difference (mechanically or electrically may cause problems, you will also need the donor vehcles chassis number for ordering keys and reprogramming in th future
- Might the "double key" trick work? (I mean, use the original key and locks but tape the new key to the original one to get the immobilizer to accept the code). I'm asking this because it would enable me to get the car to the garage for proper reprogramming.
This would work IF you fit the engine ecu and body computer, move the ariel away from the ignition barrel and tape the key to it, you will also need the system proxi-aligned
- Are there any other important things to take into account?
Fitting secondhand parts such as body computers is a recipe for disaster, I see one car a month probably that have used body computers fitted and have problems. Mainly due to incompatibility of the parts used with the original vehicle. My advice, use a new unit or seek a reconditioned unit

Strange, I was pretty sure I replied some hours ago, but it has disappeared... Anyway:

NumanR, thanks for your fast and extensive answer. It's now all clear to me! I'll have the dealer handle it for me to avoid any traps. They told me they can get refurbished or brand new ECU units that will fully adopt to my car the moment it is connected and ignition is turned on (I think they're talking about virginized refurbished) so that should be the way to go.

Btw. I've been able to repair the damage to my ECU and now it's running fine. Gives me some more time to find a final solution.