Get Your Dependable Dodge Ram Back on the Job
Is your trusty 1996 Dodge truck letting you down? If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like stalling at stoplights, a rough idle, hard starting, or a complete no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is the most likely culprit. This vital component is the brain of your truck’s engine and transmission, and when it fails, it can cause a host of problems that sideline your vehicle. This pre-programmed engine computer is the definitive, hassle-free solution to restore the power and reliability you depend on every single day.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
A faulty ECM can manifest in many ways. You might be seeing a check engine light with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or experiencing erratic engine behavior, poor fuel economy, and harsh automatic transmission shifts. Instead of spending a fortune at a dealership or wasting time with incorrect parts, this unit provides a direct path to a running, reliable truck. We handle all the complex programming work for you, delivering a true plug-and-play module. This is the fix you need to get your 1996 Dodge 2500 5.9L ECM working perfectly again.
- โ Ready to Install: Arrives fully programmed to your truck’s specific VIN and mileage. No expensive dealer trips for flashing are required.
- โ True Plug & Play: Simply disconnect your old module, plug this one in, and turn the key. Itโs designed for a straightforward installation.
- โ Solves Major Issues: The definitive fix for common problems like no-start, stalling, misfires, and erratic transmission behavior.
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: Engineered to be a direct replacement for a range of part numbers, including 56040780, 04886735, and 05014152AA.
- โ Peace of Mind Included: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty.
Expert Insight: Why VIN Programming is Critical for Your 2nd Gen Ram
On these 2nd Generation Dodge trucks, the ECM does more than just manage the engineโit’s deeply integrated with the automatic transmission. A generic, non-programmed computer can lead to incorrect shift points, torque converter lock-up issues, and poor performance that can feel like a major transmission problem. By programming this specific 1996 Dodge 2500 5.9L ECM to your VIN, we ensure all factory settings for your engine, transmission, and emissions equipment are perfectly calibrated. This not only restores performance but also protects your transmission from potential damage caused by incorrect signals.
Don’t let a bad computer keep your hard-working truck off the road. This is the most reliable and efficient way to solve your engine management problems and restore the dependable performance you expect from your Dodge. With a proper, correctly programmed 1996 Dodge 2500 5.9L ECM, you can get back to work with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this computer programmed by a dealer?
No. This unit arrives at your door fully programmed to the VIN you provide during checkout. It is a true plug-and-play solution, requiring no further programming or flashing.
Is this difficult to install?
Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills. The ECM is typically located on the passenger-side firewall in the engine bay. It involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors from the old unit, unbolting it, and then installing the new one in the reverse order. No special tools are required.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of your original ECM (like code P0601), this part will resolve the issue. After installation, it’s a good practice to clear any stored codes with a standard OBD2 scanner.
How do I know if this part is compatible with my truck?
This ECM is compatible with 1996 Dodge 1500, 2500, and 3500 pickups equipped with the 5.9L (360) V8 gas engine and an automatic transmission. It directly replaces part number 56040780 and the other compatible numbers listed on this page. Please match your part number to ensure a perfect fit.
What information do you need from me to program it?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to program the computer correctly. You can typically find the VIN on your driver’s side dashboard (viewable through the windshield) or on the driver’s side door jamb sticker.