ECM GLOSSARY

AUTO STOP-GO

The Auto Stop-Go feature is a fuel-saving mechanism that shuts off the engine when the vehicle is at idle, such as at a traffic light. The engine is automatically restarted as soon as the driver takes his or her foot off the brake pedal. The system has a battery pack, and uses a modified alternator that generates current and also works as a starter to restart the engine. If equipped, the ECM is specially designed to support this feature.

cab and chasis

“Chassis Cab” is the official designation of trucks Chrysler sells for further customization to particular commercial needs. The add-ons may be ordered from Chrysler or installed by a 3rd party “Upfitter” Provider. RAM 5500, 4500, and sometimes 3500’s are marketed this way.

ECM LOCATION 2001 DODGE DAKOTA

The ECM in a 2001 Dodge Dakota is usually located in the engine compartment on the passenger side, on right inner fender panel and behind the air box.

ECM LOCATION 2008 DODGE MAGNUM

The ECM in a 2008 Dodge Magnum is located in engine compartment on the passenger side. You’ll find it close to the windshield by the factory strut tower brace.

ECM LOCATION 2015 DODGE CHARGER

The ECM in a 2015 Dodge Charger is located in engine compartment on the passenger side. You’ll find it close to the windshield by the factory strut tower brace.

FUSE

Found in the TIPM (fusebox), a fuse’s sole purpose in life is to fail. Put into electrical circuits, it is designed to burn out when an abnormally high level of current begins passing through the system due to a short or other problem. It protects downstream electronics from damage (and in extreme cases, from vehicle fires). Sometimes, when an ECM/PCM seems to be completely dead and non-responsive, it is merely the ECM / PCM fuse in the TIPM that needs to be replaced.

IPM

IPM stands for Integrated Power Module. Only after 2006 did Chrysler add “T” for “Totally” and begin referring to the device as a TIPM.

NOT YOUR ORIGINAL ORDER?

If you do not recognize this order, try changing the Store you purchased from and search again.  Also verify you have entered your original MAKS order number.  If you still have trouble retrieving your order, call MAKS Customer Service at +1-818-798-5558

TRACES

Traces are the metallic lines you see criss-crossing circuit boards. They are the electronic highways that connect the various electronic components of the ECM’s internal circuit board.