Is Your 2013 Chrysler 200 or Dodge Avenger Running Rough?
If you’re experiencing frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, sudden stalling, rough idling, or a noticeable drop in fuel economy, the root cause might be a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting and emissions control. When it starts to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs of other components.
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your car off the road. This direct-replacement ECM is the definitive solution for your 2013 Chrysler 200 or Dodge Avenger equipped with the 2.4L engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. It’s designed to restore your vehicle’s original performance, reliability, and efficiency without the hassle and expense of a dealership visit.
We had a 2013 Avenger come into the shop with a classic complaint: intermittent stalling at red lights and a check engine light that a local parts store scanned as a faulty oxygen sensor. The owner had already replaced both O2 sensors, but the problem persisted. After hooking up our professional scan tool, we noticed erratic data streams coming from multiple sensors, not just one. This is a tell-tale sign that the central processing unit—the ECM—is the actual culprit. It was failing to properly interpret the signals it was receiving. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and the car ran perfectly. The customer saved hundreds by avoiding a third trip to the parts store and solving the real problem first.
Diagnosing a Faulty 2013 Chrysler 200 ECM
A failing 2013 Chrysler 200 ECM can manifest in various ways, often mimicking other sensor or component failures. It’s crucial to recognize the signs to ensure you’re addressing the correct issue. A faulty module can leave you stranded and lead to further damage if not addressed promptly. By understanding these symptoms, you can confidently determine if the engine computer is the source of your vehicle’s troubles.
Is Your Chrysler 200 or Avenger Showing These Signs?
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The light is on, and you may have error codes related to multiple, unrelated sensors or communication failures (U-codes).
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall unexpectedly while driving or at idle, and you might experience rough running or misfires.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but refuses to start, even with a good battery and starter.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden and unexplained decrease in your vehicle’s MPG is a common symptom as the ECM fails to manage the air-fuel mixture correctly.
- ✔ Harsh or Erratic Shifting: The ECM works with the transmission controller. A faulty module can cause delayed, hard, or incorrect gear shifts in your 6-speed automatic.
- ✔ Performance Issues: You may notice a general lack of power, poor acceleration, or hesitation when you press the gas pedal.
The Plug-and-Play Solution
The biggest hurdle in replacing an ECM has always been the need for expensive, specialized programming at a dealership. We eliminate that step entirely. This module arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and current mileage. This ensures that all vehicle-specific settings, security information (immobilizer), and operational parameters are correctly configured. The result is a true Plug-and-Play installation. Simply disconnect the negative battery terminal, swap the old module with the new one, reconnect the battery, and start your car. No trips to the dealer, no additional programming fees, and no special tools required.
This module is a direct fit for the following vehicles:
- 2013 Chrysler 200 with 2.4L Engine & 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- 2013 Dodge Avenger with 2.4L Engine & 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
It is compatible with and replaces a wide range of original part numbers, ensuring a perfect match for your vehicle. Please verify your part number against the list below:
Compatible Part Numbers: 04606838AB, 04606838AC, 05094956AA, 05094956AB, 05094956AC, 05094956AE, 68164368AA, 68164368AB, 68164368AC, 68164368AD, 68164368AE, 68164367, 68164366, 68164365, 68164364
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ECM and what does it do?
The Engine Control Module (ECM), also known as the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) in some vehicles, is a powerful computer that acts as the central command for your vehicle’s engine. It takes in data from dozens of sensors around the car and uses that information to control fuel injection, spark timing, transmission shifts, and emissions systems to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Is this 2013 Chrysler 200 ECM truly “Plug and Play”?
Yes. We pre-program the module using the VIN and mileage you provide during checkout. This process loads your vehicle’s specific software and security keys onto the computer. When you receive it, you can install it directly into your car without any need for further programming or dealer intervention.
How can I be sure my ECM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed above are strong indicators, the best way to be certain is through a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic. Common diagnostic steps include checking for communication with a scan tool, verifying power and ground signals at the ECM connector, and ruling out sensor or wiring failures. If multiple, unrelated codes are present, it often points to the ECM itself.
Where is the ECM located on a 2013 Chrysler 200 or Dodge Avenger?
On these models, the ECM is typically located in the engine bay, mounted to the firewall or inner fender. It is a metal box with large electrical connectors. Always disconnect the vehicle’s battery before attempting to unplug or remove the ECM.
How does the programming process work?
After you place your order, you will provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this VIN to access the latest factory-correct software for your specific car. We then flash this software onto the module, ensuring it is perfectly matched to your engine, transmission, and options. This makes the installation seamless.