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P0601

Tiny
DUCKTN
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 SAAB 9-3
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 78,000 MILES
I have an internal check sum memory error to the ECU on my 2003 Saab 9-3, P0601. When this code pops on my car, the vehicle is totally inoperable and shuts down until fuse f2 on the engine bay fuse panel is removed and reinstalled (its not blown, just removes power from and resets the ecu). After resetting the ECU I got 600 miles before it tripped again, now it is very frequent, sometimes not lasting a mile. Needless to say, its parked and deemed not roadworthy until this problem is resolved.
These ECU's are not over the counter parts at my local parts houses so I am considering a donor part. If I replace the ECU from a donor car (same year, transmission, engine), will it have to be programmed specifically for my car? Also, Is the Memory part of the ECU, or a seperate part all together?
I have heard that the key fob will not function along with other quirks that go along with donor parts that are not programmed for your car specifically? I thought it best to ask before I purchase a donor ECU, and find out I should have folded to dealer parts to begin with.

Thanks in advance for your help.
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Monday, May 30th, 2011 AT 2:33 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
MNTHNY4
  • MECHANIC
  • 612 POSTS
If it is only the tcm module u have a issue with, then u can get a used tcm module & just plug it in & drive but u will need to get it added to the vehicle system at a later date, so yes u can use a used tcm for your tcm issue. Good luck.
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Tuesday, June 7th, 2011 AT 2:09 PM
Tiny
MNTHNY4
  • MECHANIC
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Ok by the way that code u have is for the main vehicle ECM, which has a internal fault, note only fix for this is to replace the ECM module, no other repairs can be done, sorry, I do not remember now if I have ever done this before to take a other vehicle ecm & plug in to check if vehicle will start & drive, but I do know that if u get one form said module it will be able to be programmed to your car, that I am sure of, but note the ecm most come from like model & year, if your car has the secondary air injection pump, ecm most come from one with said pump for it to work correctly, also note if u put one in your car that is not the same vehicle will start but run with limited power, good luck.
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Friday, July 1st, 2011 AT 7:12 PM
Tiny
NEWWILORDER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Just a heads up. I have a 2004 9-3 Aero (2.0 T) that threw the PO 601 code. Turned out all I needed was a new battery for my key fob. So, I would suggest disconnecting the car battery for about 15 minutes while you replace the $5.00 watch battery in your key fob before you go looking for a new ECU. You're welcome. :)
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Thursday, September 28th, 2017 AT 6:46 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,643 POSTS
Great addition to this thread! Please feel free to help out whenever you are on the site :)

Cheers, Ken
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Friday, September 29th, 2017 AT 9:29 AM
Tiny
PERKY11
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2004 SAAB 9-3
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100,000 MILES
Computer problem
2004 Saab 9-3 repair Question 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 100000 miles

I was driving my car and it just shutdown. As if someone removed the key from the ignition. 2 hours later it started again, but later would not start.
When taken to the repair shop the diagnostic check gave the error code 601. Please explain
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Friday, September 29th, 2017 AT 9:30 AM (Merged)
Tiny
MNTHNY4
  • MECHANIC
  • 612 POSTS
U may need to take to dealership for this code, u have a issue with the main engine control module, may by faulty & need replacement or just need to be reprogrammed, good luck.
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Friday, September 29th, 2017 AT 9:30 AM (Merged)

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