1988 Buick Century Replacing ECM

HEMINGWAY422

MEMBER
1988 BUICK CENTURY
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
73,000 MILES

I have an 88' Buick Century 2.5 4cyl. I've got a Service code 42 and took it to a service center and it was diagnosed as the ECM is bad. Replacement and labor was estimated at $350. I can do the work myself but just wondered if this year/model would need to be programed by a Mechanic or Dealer? Is it and easy Do-It-Yourself thing?

2 Replies

DOCFIXIT

MECHANIC
18,828 POSTS

You do not need it programed. What is problem other than the code? Code 42 usually turns out to be Ignition module in distributor.

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Wednesday, October 22nd, 2008 AT 11:37 AM

HEMINGWAY422

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thank you for your speedy reply. At about a medium load on engine 55 to 65 mph, It feels amolst as it is missing. Difficult starting, when cold, Hesitant take offs. Service Engine light come on Intermitenly on start up (sometimes I get 3 to 4 starts without problem) Gas milage is horrible. Power is lacking. I still drive this car daily (It's all I got) Here's what I have replaced to try to correct this. I must say that I had a previous code of 43.

Plugs
Plug Wires
Coils
Ignition Control Module
Crank Position Indicator

Previous Maintance
replaced fuel filter (10k ago)
pcv vlave (1k ago)
Valve cover gasket (10k ago)
Flushed Raidator & replaced thermostat (5k ago)
Converted to 134a (7k ago)
serpentine belt (10k ago)
Altenator replaced( 10k ago)
Water Pump (10k ago)
Replaced fan motor(200mi. Ago)
battery was disconnected when any electrical work was done.

The Mechanic was leaning toward the ICM or the crank position indicator but rulled those out after I told that they had less the 50 mi. On them. He used a voltmeter under the dash on the passenger side. I can only assume he was checking for a voltage drop in the system and I assume he found none.