ecu compatibility question

[PlanZero]

I can't find a definitive answer for this anywhere. I have a 97 Tsi awd a/t. Can I only swap ecus with another awd a/t, or can I use an ecu from a fwd or awd m/t as well, without modification.

 

[IronSevenFold]

If you own an a/t NEVER use an ECU for m/t because if you do it your automatic transaxle won't work, so your engine will work but your transaxle won't. Use a a/t ECU from another Tsi .. the best way is using the corresponding to your year (97) other years could make your car work (96-99) but there are little unexpected operations and it won't perform as original. My car is a 97 Rs and i had to put in it a 96 Ecu and it has a bucking problem when it is at low throttle openings, this thing didn't happen with the original ECU.

 

[PlanZero]

OK, but through my research I've found that the part # is the same for a/t and m/t for each year for 2g 4g63 (different # for each year, but the same for auto and manual). For example, a 99 awd ecu is MD359403, for both a/t and m/t. Is it because of the separate TCU? Is this info wrong?

 

[19Eclipse90]

On a 2G 4G63, there is no reason you can't use a A/T ECU on a M/T car (or vice versa) for a given model year. Your research is correct.

 

[PlanZero]

Thank you! My Tsi is one of many with the ecu problem of I/M sensors resetting to "not ready" every time the car is turned off. Although the EPA recognizes this, the state of PA does not. I was able to get a one time emissions exemption, and I don't feel like dealing with the red tape again next year. I know 99 ecus don't have this problem, so I plan on a swap. One other question. I know the main difference between the fwd and awd ecu is the "speed limiter" on the fwd. What exactly is this, and will I notice a difference?

 

[snowborder714]

It limits the car to 130 mph.

 

[PlanZero]

Hmmm. I don't think I'll be doing over 129 in my DD, unless I'm forced into a suicidal high speed chase.