You have probably seen a message that says “Maintenance required vehicle ecu”.
When this happens, it leaves you wondering what you need to do next. After all, it is not normal to see such messages appear on your dashboard.
But at the same time, you can also look into different possibilities behind this. There are a number of reasons why this type of message may appear while you are driving. This is why the best thing to do is to determine the root of the problem, so you can decide on the right troubleshooting techniques to resolve your concerns.
Today, we will discuss what exactly the message Maintenance Required Vehicle ECU means and whether you should worry about it or not.
Let’s get started.
Maintenance Required Vehicle ECU Meaning
Now, the vehicle ECU refers to the module located underneath your fuse panel. This system is responsible for controlling many cab functions of your vehicle. When things are working right, then you should not see any message showing up as you drive.
On the other hand, you may see the Maintenance Required Vehicle ECU message when there is a problem with your power supply or battery connections.
This is why of you see this message appear, the best thing to do is to inspect your battery connections and make sure these are clean. Additionally, you may want to clean your starter connections, as well as the pass-thru connections on your vehicle’s driver side.
When you have finished doing all of these, you may next have to clear the fault using a service tool or through your dashboard.
Signs Of Vehicle ECU Issues
Your Engine Control Unit or ECU is an important part of your vehicle’s onboard computer. This component regulates a number of systems, as well as subsystems in the drive train, engine, and many other critical parts.
When there are problems with your ECU, it is possible to encounter a number of symptoms such as the following:
1.Check engine light illuminates
If you notice that your check engine light stays on for an extended period, then it is possible that there is an issue with your ECU. But do keep in mind that there are also several other reasons why the check engine light may switch on, and one of the most common reasons is a faulty ECU.
So, if you encounter this situation often, then it is best to take your vehicle to the mechanic and get it checked for issues.
2. Starting problems
Do you have a hard time starting your car? If so, it is highly likely that you are having some ECU issues. But at the same time, you may want to check a few other components that may be triggering this starting problem such as the battery, electrical components, and your starter, to name a few.
However if after inspecting these parts and your vehicle still fails to start, then you may want to consider getting your ECU checked for potential problems.
3. Other problems
There are a few other signs of an issue with your ECU. These include reduced fuel efficiency and poor performance, which are typical of a vehicle with a problematic ECU.
Additionally, you may notice some difficulties in shifting gears, as well as sudden stopping and jerking, which resemble an issue with your transmission.
However, if you experience these symptoms, yet you keep your transmission well-maintained, or when you have adequate transmission fluid, then you can consider ECU issues as one of the potential triggers.
Your Next Step
Once you are sure that your ECU is having some pro less, you need to take your vehicle to the nearest mechanic. However, do not settle on just about any service center. It is important that you go to one that uses a special diagnostic equipment to check the onboard computer of your car.
Moreover, you need to make sure that the service center is indeed capable of diagnosing faults in an ECU. This is why it helps to choose a repair shop that sells the kind of vehicle you have. This way you can expect positive results from the service you pay for.
For the most part, ECU repairs are pricey. When you buy a replacement ECU, you can expect to pay about $1000 to as much as $3000. It all depends on your vehicle’s make and model.
In case your ECU is not beyond repair and can still be reprogrammed, then you can significantly reduce the cost of getting it fixed. This is why it helps to make a comprehensive diagnosis of the problem to make sure if nothing can be done except to replace it or a simple repair can fix the issue.
As for the labor, or cost of inspection and testing, it should set you back between $150 and $300. But if you need to have your ECU reprogrammed or repaired, then it should cost about $300 to as much as $750.
If you need to have someone come to your location so you can get the ECU checked or repaired, you should be able to find mechanics online. This makes it very convenient to get your ECU fixed without the need to drive around looking for a mechanic.
Read More: Kenworth Cecu Problems That Not Many People Are Aware Of
Wrap Up
It is never easy to have to deal with issues on your vehicle. If the problem appears to be with your ECU, then it is best to get the issue addressed sooner than later.
Considering that your ECU is a critical component of your vehicle, you need to prioritise getting this part repaired once you have observed some issues with it.
So, make it a point to pay attention to the symptoms of a faulty ECU, take your vehicle to a dealership that specialises in the make and model of your vehicle, and have the faulty ECU repaired or reprogrammed, depending on the specialist’s diagnosis.