Chrysler Repair: Chrysler Sebring LXI coupe Engine Module, chrysler sebring lxi, chrysler sebring lxi coupe

Question
I recently purchased a 2003 Chrysler Sebring LXI Coupe. I had some stalling problems within two weeks. The Dealer installed a new Altenator and now they are telling me it needs a new Engine Control Module. They said they can't get one for about two months? Is this normal? I can't believe that they can't get one sooner? I have a feeling that they may be playing games? Do these Engine modules go bad that soon? The car only has 16 thousand miles on it.Thanks.

Dave

Answer
Hello Dave.
I haven't heard that this sort of failure is common, but I am an amateur do it yourself type of 'expert' so I would not have much of a basis for knowing the frequency of failure. About all that I can suggest is that you may be able to verify the nature of the failure by taking advantage of the self-read feature for fault codes that may be stored in the memory of the module. If this feature is available it will work this way:
Try using the ignition key: turn it "on-off-on-off-on" and leave it "on" (doing this quickly, no longer than 5 seconds). Then watch the 'check engine' light to begin flashing, then pause, flashing, pause, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause and keep track of the numbers. Repeat the readout and verify the counts are correct. Then group them in pairs in the order that they came out, thus forming two digit numbers. You may notice that the pause is shorter between the digits of a given number, and longer between the numbers themselves. Then send me a 'follow-up' question telling me the results of your readout. By the way, 55 will be the last number (two groups of 5 flashes each) and that is the code for "end of readout".
If you get a fault code number 53, 62 or 63 that would verify a problem with the module. Other numbers would indicate problems with other parts of the system. There is also an essay on fault codes at the site:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html
which gives the meaning of the code numbers. But then you need to get specific info for what exactly might be the diagnostic tests or parts to replace to complete the repair.
So give it a try and follow up with a question if you get anything interesting on the readout.
Roland