Replacing ETM - Does it need programmed after install?

[jderosa3]

I am having issues with Low Poer (Limp Mode) on my 2001 2.4T XC... I pulled a P1651 which equates to a possible ECM defect, but I am taking my chances that it is rare for that part to go bad.

If I install an new ETM to see if this fixes my problem. Should this bolt on with no issues? Or... Do I need to get the ECM prorammed again to work with the new part.

I assume if I get the part paired with a VIN it should work fine.

Any clarification would be helpful. Thanks

[JRL]

Nope
Volvo DEALER has to download software for it to work

[jderosa3]

That is ridiculous... same part exchanged out needs to be reprogrammed. Never had to do this on my VWs

[JRL]

It has SOFTWARE to install
This is not a VW, if you like VWs so much, sell your Volvo and go back and buy one!..... but there is no use in arguing the point, it just makes you look a bit silly

[jderosa3]

JRL...

First off - no one here needs any commentary that doesn't offer any constructive advice - especially novices with Volvos like myself. I am not going to start an argument here, but in the world of online communities there is something known as etiquette. I am entitled to my opinion as much as yours.

This is not my car.. I personally own a VW - I merely stated it was something that does not need to be done on it.

Any manufacturer that requires you to have something like that done is (in my mind) unneeded... if the program is in the car computer already what is the need to program the same identical part... that's all... its a way for Volvo to make money... I get it.

Maybe your could show the knowledge you have from the 4K+ posts you have made here and explained why this part needs programmed again in the first place... Since you are so privy to how these cars intricately work. Does the ECU lose its memory of the servo positions? Does the ECU need calibrated back to the default value of the potentiometer of the ETM? Does a new part come equip with someway to flash the ECU to erase it and this is a safeguard Volvo puts in place? Curious minds wonder...

I also saw someone of the same alias got banned on another Volvo forum... Wouldn't be you by chance?

Try offering advice (other than "go cry somewhere else") next time... Some of us would like to learn new things... myself included.

[Ars Gladius]

Any manufacturer that requires you to have something like that done is (in my mind) unneeded... if the program is in the car computer already what is the need to program the same identical part... that's all... its a way for Volvo to make money... I get it.

The ETM or electronic throttle control unit does not have a physical connection to the accelerator pedal. It is drive-by-wire, not just a mechanical part. As such there are safety systems built into the software and hardware to ensure safe operation.

One possibility is that these require the software download to 'mate' the new module to the car, the various sub-systems likely have serial identifiers in their firmware to ensure that they are reporting correctly and that the signaling is not corrupted and thus possibly causing an unsafe operating condition.

Another likely possibility is that the various models of the cars have distinct software versions based on their set-up. While several models may use the same piece of hardware, they may have different software parameters. This is less expensive then manufacturing x number of physically different parts.

I would also not be surprised if there was an anti-theft system relationship to this as well.



As for the "Never had to do this on my VWs", it is a Volvo not a VW, they are different cars from different manufactures. Their systems will be different and will require different repairs.

Most cars are moving to a more "digital" systems anyways, so even your VWs will (or likely already) require this on some or most of their sub-systems.

[jderosa3]

Ars,

Thank you kindly for the explanation. I figured these reasons were the case. I know that my VW is drive by wire as well, but it is not a turbo... so I am sure this also adds to the complexity of the overall design.

Off topic, but replacing the MAF should not require programming correct?

Again. Thank you.

[kamiar]

If you get a rebuilt ETM, some websites advertise that theirs is even better than a new Volvo brand and they DO NOT need a software download.

I also have heard people changed the ETM with a used one from a same make and model year and it worked without a software download...

[Leto Atreides II]

kamiar is referring to the XeMODeX ETM which does not fail like the 99-02 Volvo ETM.

http://xemodex.com/xemodex_013.htm

[ecbsykes]

I just ordered a new ETM from XeMODeX today. You provide them with your car's VIN and they program it accordingly, therefore making it a plug-n-play replacement!