Volvo AWD S70 Forum

INDEX FOR 10/2025(CURRENT) INDEX FOR 1/2011 S70 INDEX

[<<]  [>>]


THREADED THREADED EXPANDED FLAT PRINT ALL
MESSAGES IN THIS THREAD




  REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE    PRINT   SAVE 

Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

First
How can you determine whether the Engine Control Unit (ECU) currently in your vehicle is the factory installed one?
I called the local Volvo folks and was told that if it's a Bosch it is likely the OEM that was factory installed. They further indicated that there was no reliable way to ascertain whether the ECU module is the original one.
However, I have just taken notice of the fact that the unit currently installed has some yellow markings on the side, suggesting a salvage part, thus highly unlikely to be the original.
So isn't there a reliable way to find out what ECU unit was originally installed?

Second
I have two extra ECUs, all from Ebay, as a result of a mad attempt to deal with the nasty inspection process they have implemented here in Massachusetts.
How can I determine whether they came from a turbo, from an S70, or that they came from a 98 model, other than from the seller's say so?

Third
How can one determine whether these ECU modules are not infected with codes or defective?

Thanks to all for any input on these issues.








  •   REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE Replies to this message will be emailed.    PRINT   SAVE 

    Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

    ECUs are built on an assembly line just as any car part. The part number on them is the only distinguishing thing that matters.
    You have to trust the seller.
    Is yours original to the car? No one knows the answer to that, they all have the same part number. An ECU not intended for your car will not work for your car.
    It sure is hard to put a virus in the computer. And diagnostic codes will go away when it is unplugged from electricity.

    Klaus
    --
    The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)








    •   REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE    PRINT   SAVE 

      Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

      Thank you so much Klaus for the informative reply.
      From what you're saying I could somewhat safely infer that if the ECUs hadn't come from an S70 turbo I would immediately find out, right?

      One question still lingers over this matter, all other things being equal as far as being in working order, how can one determine which ECU is best? In short, what should I look for in the numbers to indicate better capacity and or competency of an ECU?

      Thanks








      •   REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE Replies to this message will be emailed.    PRINT   SAVE 

        Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

        Unless the ECUs have been reprogrammed, they will behave the same. And the only way to find out is to swap them and run the car for a while. If you have extras, you may consider having one reprogrammed for increased bhp.
        Never take your car to a dealer with a reprogrammed ECU. They don;t like that :)

        Klaus
        --
        The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)








        •   REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE    PRINT   SAVE 

          Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

          Any pertinent treads on this issue of which Co. offers reasonably economical and reliable options with the reprogramming process? Any particular recommendations? Thanks








          •   REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE Replies to this message will be emailed.    PRINT   SAVE 

            Is the current ECU the original one? S70 1998

            Your best bet is to search over at volvospeed or turbobricks.

            Klaus
            --
            The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are a 95 854T and a 98 V70R :)







<< < > >>



©Jarrod Stenberg 1997-2022. All material except where indicated.


All participants agree to these terms.

Brickboard.com is not affiliated with nor sponsored by AB Volvo, Volvo Car Corporation, Volvo Cars of North America, Inc. or Ford Motor Company. Brickboard.com is a Volvo owner/enthusiast site, similar to a club, and does not intend to pose as an official Volvo site. The official Volvo site can be found here.