Hi.
I have to install a new ECU on my Palio 2010 because mine was stolen. I've already found the replacement part. What I'd like to know is if I can just plug it in and run, or if I need to take it to an authorized shop for them to do any adjustments or programing?
Thanks.

You are possibly going to have difficulty unless the replacement ECU has been put back to a "virgin" state. If the ECU was supplied by Fiat then it would/should be in a virgin state ready to be paired and programmed into the vehicle.

You should get your local Fiat dealer/workshop to put the ECU in the car because if things go wrong then it will be at their expense.

A little more technical info to simply explain why replacing an ECU is not that easy. When the car is made the ECU is in a virgin un-programmed state with respect to the immobiliser/security status. The same is true for the body computer and the key code unit. When they power up they exchange security data and "pair" themselves together and from that point on they are locked together. For a re-pairing then the new/replacement component must be in a virgin previously un-paired state.

I have personally never had to replace an ECU so there is almost a certain procedure to follow and certainly on later cars manufacturer's diagnostic kit it required.

jacopap said:

Hi.
I have to install a new ECU on my Palio 2010 because mine was stolen. I've already found the replacement part. What I'd like to know is if I can just plug it in and run, or if I need to take it to an authorized shop for them to do any adjustments or programing?
Thanks.

Click to expand...

Is this the engine Driving ECU ?


From a petrol engine?

From what 2003 punto owners have said it should run o.k.

As long as it recognises the ignition keys CHIP

Thanks to both. The new ECU is direct from Fiat factory so I assume it's virgin.
It's the injection ECU for a petrol engine.