How do I program my vehicle computer to be compatible with a different engine (no VIN # for new engine)?

Question

2000 Olds van. Engine replaced with 1999. '99 engine does not have secondary air transfer sys. Computer programmed for that sys. Can't pass NYS inspect. New computer must have VIN# of '99 car (which is unavailable) in order to be programmed. What to do?

Answer 1

Sadly you cannot reprogram the PCM to accept the other engine. I'd suggest that you try to get the PCM from the 'donor' van that the engine came from. I suspect you'll have a problem here - since you don't have the vin for the donor van, I doubt you could get that van's PCM, right? However, you should get either a 1999 PCM or a 2000 engine with the 2ndary air system.

Answer 2

2

Answer 3

WWEEELLLL---In California it would be a real mess too. But here we Do have one option, but even that isn't always a success.
Ask the test center if there is a State Referee that can make an inspection, and issue either a variance or adjudication concerning what has been done.
If not, then you are most likely going to have to go to the dealer, purchase a NEW PCM and have the dealer flash it for you.
You MIGHT also TRY a NAPA parts house and see if they can get a re-manufactured unit. Some stores have the ability to flash units they sell (but not all of them).
When asked about an engine transplant, I ALWAYS recommend that the owner contact the referee first, and find out what is acceptable, and get it in writing, for this very reason.
There is a lot of money invested, not to mention the time involved in the project.
And NOW you find out that you can't smog it, therefore can't license it, therefore can't drive it, but you do have to continue to pay for it.
BUMMMMER!

Answer 4

Trash the van, stop wasting your money, and get a van that does not give you those headaches. You cannot program those type computers.