Is Your Jeep Commander Running Rough? The ECM Might Be to Blame.
If you’re experiencing frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, sudden stalling, poor fuel economy, or a complete no-start condition in your 2009 or 2010 Jeep Commander or Grand Cherokee with the 3.7L engine, the root cause is often the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM is the central computer of your vehicle, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to emissions controls and transmission shifting. When it begins to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs of other components.
A failing ECM can mimic other problems, such as a bad fuel pump, faulty sensors, or wiring issues. You might notice inconsistent engine performance, hesitation during acceleration, or random misfire codes that come and go. Don’t continue to replace parts hoping for a fix. This direct-fit Engine Control Module, part number 68028167AC, is the definitive solution to restore your Jeep’s performance, reliability, and drivability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2009 Grand Cherokee 3.7L in the shop that was giving the owner fits. The vehicle would run perfectly fine for days, then suddenly refuse to start after being driven and parked for a short time. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a generic network communication error that would pop up occasionally. The owner had already replaced the crank sensor and checked the fuel pump. After hooking up our diagnostic scanner and monitoring live data, we noticed that the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM would drop out intermittently when the engine bay was hot. Tapping on the ECM housing would sometimes cause the engine to stumble. This confirmed our suspicion: the internal circuits of the original ECM were failing under thermal stress. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the Jeep has been running flawlessly ever since. It’s a classic case where the central computer was the hidden culprit behind a very frustrating intermittent problem.
Diagnosing a Faulty 2009-2010 Commander ECM
Identifying a failing engine computer is the first step toward a lasting repair. While a professional diagnosis is always recommended, your vehicle will often display a clear set of symptoms pointing to the ECM. This module is the correct solution if you’re facing one or more of the following issues.
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The check engine light is illuminated with codes pointing to ECM internal failure, processor faults (like P0601 or P0606), or communication errors.
- ✔ No-Start or Hard-Start: The engine cranks but refuses to start, or takes an excessively long time to fire up, especially when warm.
- ✔ Engine Stalling: The engine randomly stalls while driving or when coming to a stop, often without warning.
- ✔ Poor Performance & Fuel Economy: You may experience a noticeable loss of power, hesitation, rough idling, and a significant drop in miles per gallon (MPG).
- ✔ Misfire Codes: The ECM may incorrectly report misfires on one or more cylinders, even after spark plugs and coils have been replaced.
- ✔ Communication Issues: Your mechanic’s diagnostic scan tool is unable to communicate with the engine computer.
- ✔ Erratic Transmission Behavior: Since the ECM works with the transmission controller, a faulty unit can cause harsh or incorrect shifting.
The Plug-and-Play Solution You Need
The biggest obstacle to replacing an ECM has always been the need for expensive programming at a dealership. Our modules eliminate this step entirely. We handle all the programming for you before the part ever ships. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage during checkout. We will flash the module with your vehicle’s specific software and security information. When it arrives, the installation is a straightforward, bolt-in process with no additional programming required. This saves you time, money, and the headache of towing your vehicle to a service center.
This unit is a direct replacement for a wide range of original part numbers, ensuring perfect compatibility. It is designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications for durability and performance. All you need are basic hand tools and a few minutes to disconnect the battery, unbolt the old module located in the right-hand (passenger side) engine compartment, and connect this new one. It’s that simple.
Compatible Part Numbers:
This module is a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 05150467AA, 05150467AB, 68028166AB, 68028166AC, 68028166AD, 68028166AE, 68028166AF, 68060531AB, 68060531AC, 68060531AD, 68059198AA, 68059198AB, 68028167AB, 68028167AC, 68028167AD, 68028167AE, 68028162, 68059197, 68028163, 68028154, 68059196, 68028155, 68028155AD, 68028150, 68059195, 68028151, 68028174, 68028175, and 68028176.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. This is the main benefit of our service. The module arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN and mileage. It is a true plug-and-play installation, requiring no further flashing or dealer intervention.
Where is the ECM located on my 2009 Jeep Commander?
The Engine Control Module on the 2009-2010 Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee with the 3.7L engine is located in the engine compartment on the right-hand (passenger) side, typically mounted to the firewall or inner fender.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For most individuals with basic mechanical skills and hand tools, this is a straightforward installation. The process involves disconnecting the vehicle’s battery, unplugging the electrical connectors from the old module, unbolting it, and then installing the new one in the reverse order. Since no programming is needed, it’s one of the easier electronic components to replace.
How can I be certain my old ECM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed above are strong indicators, the best way to be 100% certain is through a professional diagnosis. A qualified technician can rule out other potential causes like wiring faults, sensor failures, or fuel delivery issues. However, if your vehicle displays multiple classic ECM failure symptoms, especially communication-related trouble codes, the ECM is the most likely culprit.
What information do you need from me when I order?
To ensure a perfect plug-and-play experience, we require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the current mileage. This allows us to load the correct factory software and security settings for your specific Jeep.