Ordered an ECM, having a problem

Tiny
DKHJR1972
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE DURANGO
  • 4.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 158,000 MILES
I have the vehicle listed above SXT, RWD. A month ago it developed a hard start problem and a random cutting out of the engine.
Hard start: When holding the key to start, the engine will stop cranking while still holding the key. It will take 5 to 6 attempts to finally start the engine.
Engine cutting out: Once the engine is running, while driving it, either during acceleration, or during cruising, the engine will cut out. Not sputter and shut off, hesitate and buck, simply cut out as if someone reached over and turned the key off.
It has been to two mechanics and a garage. It is not throwing any check engine lights. A new fuel pump was installed, no improvement. A new battery was installed, and alternator output was tested, both good. A new ignition switch was installed. The IAC valve, Cam sensor and Crank sensor were checked, all working fine. A livestream of data revealed to errors, Battery Disconnect and Incorrect VIN.

Ordered a new ECM programmed with the VIN, got the correct part number from the Dodge dealer. Installed the new ECM. After connecting the battery the tachometer and speedometer maxed out until a drive around the block cleared it out. An error scan revealed P0633 Immobilizer key not programmed ECM/PCM. The P/N the company sent does not match the dealer P/N, but is a correct alternate. There is 6 or 8 different P/N's for this vehicle, both P/N's come up for this vehicle.

Here is my question: Will this P0633 code become a problem while driving the car, or will it be something that clears itself after driving for a certain period of time? The ECM company wants me to send the part back, and issue the correct part, but that means another week of not having a vehicle, can't have that. All symptoms have cleared up, and the vehicle is running better than before. I'm more than happy to run with this part as long as it won't be an issue down the road.
Monday, March 8th, 2021 AT 8:39 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
DKHJR1972
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Additional information: I have had this vehicle for a year, bought used from a good friend. He had it for a year prior to that. It does not have an immobilizer system, no anti theft system. The one key is not chipped. I removed the rubber head when I wanted to get a copy made. There was no chip inside. There is a hole in the head of the key for a chip, but nothing inside. I did that when I first got the car a year ago and have been able to drive the car without any problems.

I had a 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan, with a chipped key, and did a workaround to get copies made, so I know the symptoms when the vehicle is looking for a chipped key and there is not one present. It starts, but shuts off 2 seconds later.
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Monday, March 8th, 2021 AT 8:42 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Just to clarify, all you have is this immobilizer code but it starts and runs fine?

If that is the case, more then likely someone deleted the system because this vehicle should have come with what is called a SKIM key system from the factory. Basically that is where the key gives a code to the module and then if it matches it sends a code to the PCM and if they match as well then the PCM starts the vehicle.

If you installed a different PCM and now have this code, I suspect you installed a PCM that is looking for the system but the rest of the system is deleted already. So if the vehicle is starting, then it is up to you if you have it repaired as the vehicle is operating.

However, if it were me, I would ask then company send you the replacement PCM and then you can return the other so that you are not without your vehicle. They can simply charge you for the core if you don't return it but having it go the other way doesn't make sense if your vehicle is starting and running.

Also, there was an option in 2003 to order the vehicle without the SKIM system. If your vehicle was ordered without this system then the issue is the same but the only difference is it was not deleted. It was just never built with it. However, they still sent you a PCM with the system active for it. Below is some more info on this.

Let me know if you have questions. Thanks
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Monday, March 8th, 2021 AT 10:11 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good afternoon,

If the car runs with the acceptable P/N then it should be good.

The code will not go away until you have the code for the OEM. It will stay active until it is resolved.

Did you try a locksmith to see if they can match the numbers?

Roy
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Monday, March 8th, 2021 AT 10:15 AM

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