Is Your 2004 Stratus or Sebring Running Rough?
If your 2004 Dodge Stratus or Chrysler Sebring is suffering from perplexing issues like stalling, erratic shifting, poor fuel economy, or a persistent Check Engine Light, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a very likely culprit. The ECM is the central computer of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission behavior and emissions. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose. Don’t let a faulty computer keep your car off the road. This replacement engine computer, part number 04896102AN, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2004 Sebring convertible come into the shop that was driving the owner crazy. It would randomly stall at stoplights, and the transmission would sometimes refuse to shift out of second gear. The customer had already replaced the crankshaft and camshaft sensors based on generic codes, but the problem persisted. After confirming power and ground to the module were good, we hooked up our scope and noticed the injector pulse signals were dropping out intermittently. The root cause wasn’t a sensor or wiring; it was the ECM itself failing internally. We installed a pre-programmed unit just like this one, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing individual symptoms can be misleading when the core problem lies with the vehicle’s brain.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with various, often inconsistent, trouble codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ The vehicle won’t start, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Apparent failure of multiple sensors at once.
Why Choose Our Pre-Programmed 2004 Stratus Engine Computer?
Getting your vehicle back to factory-spec operation is our top priority. This isn’t just a generic part off a shelf; it’s a complete, plug-and-play solution. When you order, we flash the module with your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage. This critical step ensures that the computer communicates flawlessly with your car’s other modules, like the instrument cluster and anti-theft system. You can bypass the expensive dealership visit for programming, saving you both time and money. Simply install the module, and you’re ready to go. This unit is a direct replacement for a wide range of part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility for your 2.7L Stratus or Sebring.
Fitment Note: This module is specifically for models with the 2.7L engine and an automatic transmission that use a flywheel with 32 tone ring windows. Please verify this matches your vehicle’s configuration for guaranteed compatibility.
Compatible Part Numbers:
05150694AC, 68171358AB, 68171358AC, 68171358AD, 68171358AE, 68171358AF, 68171358AG, 04896102AA, 04896102AB, 04896102AC, 04896102AD, 04896102AE, 04896102AF, 04896102AG, 04896102AH, 04896102AI, 04896102AJ, 04896102AK, 04896102AL, 04896102AM, 04896102AN, 04896102AO, 04896102AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this engine computer truly plug-and-play?
Yes. We program the module with your vehicle’s VIN and mileage before shipping. This ensures it integrates seamlessly with your existing systems, eliminating the need for any additional programming from a dealer or mechanic.
What information do you need from me to program it?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and the current mileage. You can typically find the VIN on your dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on your vehicle’s registration or insurance card.
How can I be sure my old ECM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed are strong indicators, a definitive diagnosis is always best. Common diagnostic steps include checking for consistent power and ground at the ECM connector and verifying that there are no shorts in the wiring harness. If multiple, unrelated sensor codes appear simultaneously, it often points to the ECM as the root cause.
Will this part fit my 2004 Chrysler Sebring?
Yes, this engine computer is compatible with both the 2004 Dodge Stratus and the 2004 Chrysler Sebring, provided your vehicle has the 2.7L engine, an automatic transmission, and the corresponding 32-tone ring flywheel as noted in the fitment data.
Do I need to perform a security or key relearn procedure?
No. Because we program the module to your VIN, it will recognize your existing keys and security system. The installation is designed to be as simple as disconnecting the battery, swapping the modules, and reconnecting the battery.