Get Your ’96 Dodge Ram Back on the Job
Is your trusty 1996 Dodge Ram letting you down? If you’re dealing with frustrating no-start conditions, unpredictable stalling, or a persistent check engine light, a failing engine computer is likely the culprit. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s downtime for a truck that’s built to work. This pre-programmed Engine Control Module (ECM) is the definitive, no-hassle solution to restore your truck’s performance and reliability, getting you back on the road and back to work without a trip to the dealership. For many owners, a quality replacement 1996 Dodge 2500 ECM is the key to another hundred thousand miles of dependable service.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
A faulty ECM can cause a wide range of issues that can be difficult to diagnose. If your truck is experiencing any of the following, this module is your solution:
- Complete no-start or intermittent starting
- Engine stalling unexpectedly while driving or at idle
- Rough or erratic idling
- Poor acceleration and loss of power
- Noticeably decreased fuel economy
- Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting
- Check Engine Light with codes related to sensor circuits (P0100-P0600 series) or internal controller failure (P0601, P0605, P0606)
Replacing your failing module with this fully programmed unit directly addresses the root cause of these problems, restoring communication between your engine’s critical components and bringing your truck’s performance back to factory standards.
Features & Benefits
- โ Truly Plug & Play: This unit arrives at your door programmed to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and mileage. No expensive dealer programming or special tools are required.
- โ Fast, Simple Installation: Located on the right-hand firewall, the ECM can be swapped out with basic hand tools in under an hour. It’s a straightforward job for any DIY mechanic.
- โ Restored Engine Performance: By re-establishing correct fuel mixture, ignition timing, and transmission control, this ECM ensures your 5.9L V8 runs smoothly and powerfully.
- โ Guaranteed Compatibility: This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of original part numbers, including 04886735, 04886786, 56040780, and more, ensuring a perfect fit and function.
- โ One-Year Warranty: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty, giving you confidence and peace of mind in your repair.
From the Mechanic’s Bench:
“On these second-gen Dodge trucks, the ECM does more than just run the engineโit’s tightly integrated with the automatic transmission. We’ve seen countless trucks come in with what the owner thought was a bad transmissionโhard shifts, no overdriveโonly to find the ECM was the real problem. A properly programmed, quality computer doesn’t just fix stalling; it can completely change how the truck drives and shifts. Don’t chase down phantom transmission problems until you’re certain the brain of the operation is healthy.”
DODGE 2500 PICKUP 96 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 8-360 (5.9L), standard duty, AT (ID 56040780)
DODGE 3500 PICKUP 96 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 8-360 (5.9L), standard duty, AT (ID 56040780)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this ECM really 100% plug and play?
Yes. We program the module using the VIN you provide during checkout. When it arrives, you simply disconnect the battery, swap the old module with the new one, reconnect the battery, and start your truck. No further programming is needed.
What information do you need from me to program it?
We require your truck’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage. You can typically find the VIN on your driver’s side door jamb sticker or on the dashboard viewable through the windshield.
Will this fix my check engine light?
This module will resolve any diagnostic trouble codes that are caused by a faulty ECM itself. If the check engine light is on due to a separate issue, like a bad oxygen sensor or EGR valve, those parts will still need to be addressed. A new 1996 Dodge 2500 ECM provides a solid foundation for accurate diagnostics.
Do I need to send my old computer (core) back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep, discard, or recycle your old module at your convenience.
How can I be sure my original ECM has failed?
While professional diagnosis is always best, common signs of failure include a no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire, intermittent stalling for no apparent reason, or specific trouble codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). If you’re experiencing multiple electronic-related symptoms, the ECM is a very likely culprit.