Get Your Dodge Van Back to Work, Fast.
Is your reliable Dodge 2500 Van suddenly stalling, shifting erratically, or refusing to start? A failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can bring your work to a grinding halt, costing you time and money. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a direct hit to your productivity. We understand that you need a solution that is fast, reliable, and straightforward. This is it. This pre-programmed 1996-1997 Dodge 2500 Van Engine Computer is the definitive answer to get your workhorse back on the road with minimal downtime.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
A faulty ECM can manifest in a variety of frustrating ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing engine computer is the most likely culprit:
- No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- Erratic Shifting or Stuck in Gear: The 4-speed automatic transmission may shift harshly, late, or get stuck in ‘limp mode’ (2nd gear).
- Poor Engine Performance: Noticeable loss of power, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel economy.
- Check Engine Light with Specific Codes: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) are a clear indicator of ECM failure.
- Intermittent Issues: Problems that seem to come and go, often worsening as the vehicle warms up.
This engine computer is the direct solution, engineered to resolve these issues and restore your van’s factory performance and dependability.
Features & Benefits
- ✔ Completely Plug & Play: This unit arrives at your door pre-programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and mileage. No expensive trips to the dealership for programming are required.
- ✔ Restored Drivability: By correcting engine and transmission commands, this module restores the smooth shifting and reliable engine performance you depend on.
- ✔ Guaranteed Compatibility: A direct-fit replacement for a wide range of original part numbers, including 56040732, 4886783, 56040771, and more, ensuring a perfect match for your 1996-1997 Dodge Van with the 5.2L (318) V8.
- ✔ Built for Durability: Each component is inspected to meet or exceed original equipment standards for long-lasting reliability under demanding work conditions.
- ✔ Peace of Mind Included: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty.
Expert Insight: The ‘Plug & Play’ Difference
“For these mid-90s Dodge vans, the ECM is the brain of the entire powertrain. It controls everything from fuel injection to transmission shift points. Grabbing a used unit from a salvage yard might seem like a cheap fix, but it’s a huge gamble. Without being programmed to your van’s specific VIN, it won’t communicate correctly with the other modules, leading to security system lockouts, incorrect transmission behavior, and persistent check engine lights. Our ‘Plug & Play’ service eliminates that entire headache. We handle the complex programming so you can perform a simple mechanical swap and get back on the road the same day. It’s the smart repair that saves you from future problems.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this really a Plug & Play installation?
Yes. We use the VIN you provide during checkout to flash the computer specifically for your vehicle. Once it arrives, you simply disconnect the battery, swap the old module with this one, reconnect the battery, and start the engine. No further programming is needed.
Where is the ECM located on my 1996-1997 Dodge Van?
The Electronic Control Module (ECM) on these vans is typically located on the center of the firewall in the engine compartment. It’s a silver metal box with three large electrical connectors.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In these Dodge vans, the engine computer also controls the 4-speed automatic transmission. If your shifting problems are electronic in nature (caused by the computer), then yes, this part is the correct fix for issues like harsh shifts or being stuck in gear.
Do I need to send my old computer back?
This purchase does not require you to return your original computer core, saving you the time and expense of a core charge and return shipping.
How do I know if this fits my specific van?
This 1996-1997 Dodge 2500 Van Engine Computer is compatible with the 1500, 2500, and 3500 van models equipped with the 5.2L (318ci) V8 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. You can also match one of the many compatible part numbers listed on this page to the part number on your original unit.