Is Your Sebring or Avenger Running Rough? The ECM Might Be the Culprit.
If you’re experiencing baffling engine performance issues with your 2007-2008 Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Avenger, you’re not alone. Problems like erratic idling, stalling, poor fuel economy, or a persistent check engine light that won’t go away can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). This computer is the brain of your vehicle’s engine, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and seemingly unrelated symptoms. Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. This direct replacement ECM, part number 05094721AM, is the reliable, plug-and-play solution you need to restore your vehicle’s performance and peace of mind.
We had a 2008 Sebring with the 2.7L V6 come into the shop with a very tricky issue. The owner complained of intermittent stalling at red lights, but it wouldn’t store any consistent trouble codes. We checked the fuel pump, sensors, and wiring, but everything seemed fine. On a hunch, we monitored the live data from the ECM and noticed the injector pulse width would randomly drop to zero right before a stall. After swapping in a known-good test module, the problem vanished completely. The original ECM had an internal fault that would only manifest under specific thermal conditions, making it a nightmare to diagnose without seeing it happen in real-time. A new, correctly programmed ECM had the car running perfectly in under 15 minutes.
The Critical Role of Your 2007-2008 Sebring ECM
The ECM in your vehicle is a sophisticated computer responsible for managing dozens of complex systems simultaneously. It takes in data from sensors all over the engine—like the crankshaft position sensor, oxygen sensors, and mass airflow sensor—and uses that information to make instantaneous adjustments to the fuel injection, ignition timing, and transmission shifting. A properly functioning 2007-2008 Sebring ECM is essential for optimal power, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. Over time, factors like heat cycles, vibrations, and electrical shorts can degrade the delicate internal circuitry, leading to failure.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The most obvious sign, often with codes related to sensors, misfires, or module communication errors.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall for no apparent reason, either while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Poor Performance: You might notice a significant loss of power, hesitation during acceleration, and reduced fuel economy.
- ✔ Starting Issues: The vehicle may crank but fail to start, or it may not crank at all.
- ✔ Harsh or Erratic Shifting: The ECM also communicates with the transmission controller, and a fault can lead to poor shifting performance.
- ✔ Communication Failures: A diagnostic scan tool may be unable to communicate with the ECM, indicating a serious internal problem.
A True Plug-and-Play Solution
The biggest hurdle in replacing an engine computer has always been the complex programming required to make it work with your specific vehicle. Our process eliminates that headache entirely. This 2007-2008 Sebring ECM arrives at your door pre-programmed with the latest software updates from the manufacturer and flashed specifically to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming. It is a true plug-and-play installation:
- Disconnect the Battery: Safety first. Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on your vehicle’s electronics.
- Locate and Remove the Old ECM: On most Sebring and Avenger models, the ECM is located in the engine bay. Simply disconnect the wiring harnesses and unbolt the module.
- Install the New ECM: Bolt the new module in place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start.
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. If your original module has any of the following part numbers, this unit is the correct fit: 05033708AD, 05033708AE, 05033707AJ, 05033708AF, 05094721AA, 05094721AB, 05094721AC, 05094721AE, 05094721AG, 05094721AH, 05094721AI, 05094721AJ, 05094721AK, 05094721AL, 05094721AM, 05094721AN, 05150157AH, 05094721AO, 05094858AA, 05094858AC, 05094858AD, 05094858AE, 05094858AF, 05187343AF, 05150245AC.
Guaranteed Fitment
This module is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles with the specified engine options:
- 2007-2008 Chrysler Sebring with 2.7L or 3.5L engine
- 2008 Dodge Avenger with 2.7L or 3.5L engine
By purchasing this pre-programmed 2007-2008 Sebring ECM, you are not just buying a part; you are buying a complete, hassle-free solution to get your car back in top running condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this ECM really plug and play?
Yes, absolutely. We program the module with your car’s specific VIN and mileage before shipping. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other systems, like the ignition and security, right out of the box. No additional programming or dealer visit is required.
What information do you need from me to program it?
During the checkout process, we will ask for your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. This is crucial for correct programming. Please double-check it for accuracy to ensure a seamless installation.
How do I find my current ECM’s part number to confirm a match?
The part number is printed on a sticker directly on the metal case of your existing ECM. You will need to locate the module in your engine bay and find the sticker. It will typically start with a ’05’ for this model series.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, it’s important to properly diagnose the problem first. If the light is on due to a bad sensor or another component, replacing the ECM will not fix the underlying issue.
What is the difference between an ECM, ECU, and PCM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM stands for Engine Control Module, while ECU is a more generic term for Electronic Control Unit. PCM, or Powertrain Control Module, is a type of ECU that controls both the engine and the transmission. For this specific vehicle, this module functions as the primary powertrain controller.