Chrysler Repair: 2001 Sebring engine light/ecm fault/replace?, digit code number, gear ratio

Question
roland, i have a 2001 sebring convertible the engine light came on the other day but it is not flashing. took it to the shop and they said the code was for the ecm. but they couldnt help me because it had to be programmed at the dealers shop? is this true? i was going to buy an aftermarket one for 250.oo and istall it myself considering it was just a box on the fenderwell.please let me know so i know which one to buy.

Answer
Hi Steve,
There are some programming needs, specifically if you have a sentry key immobilizer that has to be dealt into the new ecm. Also the vehicle VIN and the pinion factor (trans gear ratio) of the transmission should be programmed or a fault will be recorded in the ABS and airbag modules, and the engine performance could be less than optimal for not having the correct pinion factor. Can you tell me the 4-digit code number? I will check the manual to be sure that replacing the ecm is your only choice. You may be able to get it with the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see if the mileage reading changes to show a 4-digit number prefixed by a P. That would be the code.
Roland