PCM reprogramming

KWMERRITT

MEMBER
2017 HONDA CRV
1.5L
4 CYL
4WD
7,000 MILES

I am looking for a new vehicle and I noticed that on the Carfax report that the computer has been reprogrammed. It does not specify which computer or for what reason. Why would such a new vehicle need such a major service?

Thanks in advance,

KW Merritt

3 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,963 POSTS

Having a module flashed is a very common "repair" procedure on newer vehicles. Add another key or remote = flash update. Change the main battery = flash to set the new battery parameters. In the case of that CR-V it could be for just about anything as virtually every module on it requires programming to work properly like 99% of the vehicles these days. I do not see anything in the TSBs or recall inforamtion but without knowing exactly what was done it would be hard to pin down. However it is no longer a major item to flash a module. Even changing out a defective radio requires a flash update.

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Tuesday, July 10th, 2018 AT 12:09 PM

BUCKTUDRUSSELL

MEMBER
1 POST
2007 HONDA CRV
4 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

I saw somewhere that putting the negative battery cable on the positive post would reset the ECM/PCM. Sounds problematic. Is this for real?

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Wednesday, December 30th, 2020 AT 11:12 AM (Merged)

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good afternoon.

No, never ever do that.

Removing a battery cable will make the ECM forget a current code but will come back when you start the car.

If you have codes, they need to be identified, diagnosed, repairs made and then the light can be cleared.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Roy

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Wednesday, December 30th, 2020 AT 11:12 AM (Merged)