Problems with a refurbished PCM?

MATTSPITX

MEMBER
2009 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

I was having some sporadic no start conditions, so I had the car towed to a Chevrolet dealership. They diagnosed the problem as the PCM being faulty. I ordered a programmed PCM from flagship one and I can't get the key relearn to work with this PCM. For some reason the security light does not turn on at all. I do get a message that says "service theft deterrent system". The car won't crank at all with the new PCM. I have tried this process about 4 times now, with the last time leaving the battery unplugged for about 4 hours to make sure that wasn't an issue. The car will still crank and start with the old PCM. I'm not sure if I'm overlooking something or if the refurbished PCM is somehow faulty.

Monday, August 28th, 2023 AT 3:36 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,055 POSTS

Hi,

It's odd the light isn't turning on. However, it need to be programmed to your vehicle. To program it, you will need a scan tool that has the ability to communicate with the PCM.

If you look below, I attached the directions. (Note, you didn't list the engine size, so I went with the 3.4). Both engine options should be the same.

Take a look at the directions below and let me know if that is what you have already tried.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)