2004 Intrepid & Concorde 2.7L ECM: A Guide to Replacement, Programming, and SKIM Issues

Symptoms of a Failing ECM

A faulty ECM in a 2004 Dodge Intrepid or Chrysler Concorde can cause confusing symptoms that often mimic other failed parts. If you've already checked sensors and wiring, the ECM itself might be the culprit. Look for these common signs:

• Engine Won't Start or Stalls Immediately: This is a classic symptom. The engine may crank but never start, or it might start for 2-3 seconds and then immediately shut off. This start-and-stall issue is often directly related to the anti-theft system (SKIM) not recognizing the ECM.
• Erratic Engine Behavior: The engine may stutter, misfire, idle roughly, or rev unexpectedly. This happens because the ECM is sending incorrect signals for fuel and spark timing.
• Check Engine Light with Internal Fault Codes: While many issues can trigger a Check Engine Light, codes specifically pointing to an internal module failure are a strong indicator. The most definitive codes are P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) and P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
• Poor Performance and Fuel Economy: If the ECM can't properly manage the engine, you may notice a significant loss of power, poor acceleration, and a sudden drop in gas mileage.
• Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems: Since the NGC Powertrain Control Module also controls the transmission, a failing unit can cause harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in one gear (limp mode).

Important Context: The 2.7L V6 Engine

Before condemning the ECM, it's crucial for owners of these vehicles to be aware of the 2.7L V6 engine's widespread and well-documented issues with oil sludge. This problem, caused by poor oil circulation and heat, can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Many drivability problems, including misfires and rough running, can be early signs of a failing engine, not a bad computer. Always ensure the engine's mechanical health is sound before spending money on electronic components.

Replacement and Programming: This is Not Plug-and-Play

Replacing the ECM in these vehicles is a two-part process: physical installation and electronic programming. The programming is not optional.

ECM Location and Physical Replacement

The ECM is located in the engine bay, mounted to the frame below the driver's side radiator support. It's a silver metal box with four large wiring harness connectors.

1. Disconnect the battery. This is a mandatory first step to avoid damaging the new ECM or other electronics.
2. Locate the ECM under the driver's side headlight area. You may need to unbolt and move the windshield washer fluid filler neck to gain better access.
3. Carefully unplug the four large electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released before they can be pulled off.
4. Remove the three mounting fasteners that hold the ECM to its bracket.
5. Install the new ECM, reconnect the four plugs, secure the washer filler neck, and reconnect the battery.

CRITICAL: VIN Programming and the SKIM Anti-Theft System

After the new ECM is physically installed, it must be electronically matched to your specific vehicle. These cars are equipped with a Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM), which is an anti-theft system. The key, the SKIM module, and the ECM must all share a secret code to allow the engine to run. If they don't match, the engine will start and then stall.

You have three main options to handle this:

1. Dealer or Qualified Shop Programming: A Chrysler/Dodge dealership or an independent shop with a high-end scan tool (like the factory DRBIII) can program the new ECM. They will write your car's VIN to the module and perform a "Secret Key Transfer" to sync it with the SKIM system. This is the most traditional but often most expensive method.
2. Buy a Pre-Programmed ECM: Many online retailers sell remanufactured ECMs that are pre-programmed with your vehicle's VIN before they ship it to you. You provide your VIN when ordering. This makes the physical installation "plug and play," as the VIN is already correct. In some cases, a final key relearn procedure may still be needed, but it's often much simpler.
3. SKIM Delete Service: For a permanent solution that avoids future immobilizer headaches, you can have the SKIM function removed from the ECM entirely. This is a mail-in service where a company modifies the ECM's software. After installing a SKIM-deleted ECM, you must unplug the separate SKIM module located under the steering column. The vehicle will no longer have a chip-based anti-theft system, but it will start and run without needing key programming.

Buying a Used Engine Control Module

For many parts, a used OEM component is a great value. For this specific ECM, it comes with a major warning. A used ECM from a junkyard vehicle will have the VIN and SKIM data from the donor car. It will not work in your car until it is reprogrammed by a dealer or a specialist. The cost of this reprogramming can often exceed the price of a remanufactured, pre-programmed unit.

When buying a used or remanufactured unit, ensure the part number matches your original. While there are many compatible part numbers, matching the hardware code (e.g., 05114082AA) is a good practice.

Cost Comparison

Technical Specifications and Part Numbers

These part numbers are known to be associated with the 2004 2.7L V6 ECM for the Dodge Intrepid and Chrysler Concorde. Due to supersessions, other numbers may also be compatible.

• 04896511
• 04896511AA
• 04896511AB
• 04896511AC
• 04896511AD
• 04896511AE
• 04896511AF
• 05114082AA (Hardware Code)
• R4896511AF

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)