Replacing Computer on Mazda 626

BETHM1

MEMBER
1996 MAZDA 626
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
161,000 MILES

I have a 1996 Mazda 626 (4-cylinder, automatic transmission) that quit running at a red light and will not restart. The engine turns over but will not start. I took it to a mechanic, who told me it needs a new computer and that replacing it would cost more than the value of the car. Is this true? About what would the parts + labor cost?

1 Reply

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

I found a computer for 148 plus tax if you shopped around maybe you could do better who knows. The labor is.8hr's time's shop labor rate or you could replace it yourself and save yourself some money looks pretty easy to change.I posted the directions on changing it.

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) REMOVAL / INSTALLATION

CAUTION:

* Powertrain control module is sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage may result.
* If service of powertrain control module is required, use the following safeguards to avoid damage to components.

1. Leave the PCM in their original packaging until ready to install in vehicles.
2. Avoid touching PCM connector pins.
3. Avoid laying modules on nonconductive surfaces.

1. Remove in the order shown in the figure, referring to REMOVAL NOTE.
2. Install in the reverse order of removal.

1. Negative battery cable
2. Console
3. PCM connector
4. PCM

REMOVAL NOTE

* The PCM stores information about vehicle operating conditions and uses this information to compensate for component tolerance. When an emission related component is replaced, Keep Alive Memory (KAM) should be cleared to erase the information stored by the PCM from the original compon