Is it difficult to change the computer?

Tiny
MARIO ROMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 PONTIAC VIBE
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 211,679 MILES
Is it difficult to change the computer on a 03 vibe and does it need to be programed after it is installed
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have the same problem?
Yes
No
Wednesday, July 13th, 2011 AT 1:40 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,758 POSTS
Yes, it is easy to change but will not run until you tow it to the dealer for programming.
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Saturday, April 10th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM
Tiny
MARIO ROMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
If I installed it, Is it expensive to have it programed?
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Saturday, April 10th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM
Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,758 POSTS
$100 to $200
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Saturday, April 10th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM
Tiny
MARIO ROMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Before I think about doing the work, here is my problem. I have changed the cat, both o2 sensors and checked the gas cap and the engine light is on. Does that actually mean the computer has gone bad? The mechanic that checked it stated that when he was checking the problem his machine stopped working and the he did remove the engine light but then a day later it came back on.
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Saturday, April 10th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM
Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,758 POSTS
Of course not. The "check engine" light is an indicator for a system that monitors many electronic functions in the system, also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). It can come on for any of hundreds of different causes from any of the systems that the computer monitors. Some are very important and can lead to further component or engine damage and some are emissions related not as serious but still a problem and need to be repaired.

Your first step is to have the computer scanned to retrieve the trouble codes that were set when the check engine light came on. Those codes will give you specific information about what the computer saw and will get you pointed in the right direction to find your problem. With a 1996 or newer and some 95 cars and you have an AutoZone or Advanced auto parts in your area, they will read them for free. Once you have these code numbers, we can be a lot more specific about what your problem may be.
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Saturday, April 10th, 2021 AT 11:39 AM

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