The Brain of Your 3.6L Pentastar Engine
The Engine Control Module (ECM), often called the engine computer, is the master controller for your 2015 Dodge Challenger, Charger, or Chrysler 300. It’s responsible for managing a complex web of sensors and actuators to ensure your 3.6L Pentastar engine operates with optimal power, efficiency, and emissions. From calculating the precise fuel injection timing and ignition spark to managing the transmission shifts and cooling fans, the ECM makes thousands of calculations every second. When this critical component begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems that can be difficult to diagnose.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2015 Charger 3.6L come into the shop with a complaint that was baffling the owner. The car would intermittently stall at red lights, the check engine light would flash on and then disappear, and the transmission seemed to shift harshly for no reason. The owner had already replaced the spark plugs and a camshaft sensor at another shop, but the problems persisted. After hooking up our advanced diagnostic scanner, we noticed intermittent communication drops with the ECM. We couldn’t pull any consistent codes. After verifying the wiring harness and power/ground connections to the module were solid, we suspected an internal ECM failure. We installed one of our pre-programmed modules, and it was like a new car. The idle smoothed out, the shifting became seamless, and all the phantom electrical gremlins vanished. It’s a classic case of a failing computer causing widespread, inconsistent symptoms that can lead you down an expensive rabbit hole of replacing perfectly good parts.
Is Your 2015 Challenger Engine Computer Failing?
A faulty ECM doesn’t always fail completely. Often, it begins to exhibit intermittent issues that can be mistaken for other problems. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, your engine computer could be the culprit. This replacement part is the definitive solution for restoring your vehicle’s performance and reliability.
- ✔ Check Engine Light: An illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light (CEL) is the most common sign. You may see codes related to sensor circuits, communication errors (U-codes), or processor faults.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall unexpectedly, run rough, or misfire as the ECM fails to correctly manage fuel and spark.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: A completely failed ECM can prevent the engine from starting at all, as it won’t be able to activate the fuel pump or ignition system.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: If the computer can’t properly calculate the air-fuel mixture, you’ll likely see a sudden and significant drop in your MPG.
- ✔ Erratic Transmission Shifting: The ECM works closely with the Transmission Control Module (TCM). A failing ECM can cause hard shifts, delayed shifting, or the transmission getting stuck in one gear (limp mode).
- ✔ Performance Issues: Noticeable loss of power, hesitation during acceleration, or poor throttle response can all point to a struggling ECM.
The Plug-and-Play Advantage
Replacing an ECM on a modern vehicle isn’t just a simple swap. The module must be programmed with your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and software calibration to function. This typically requires a trip to the dealership and several hundred dollars in programming fees. Our solution eliminates that hassle. We program this ECM to your exact VIN before it ships. When you receive it, the process is straightforward:
- Disconnect the vehicle’s battery.
- Locate and remove the old ECM.
- Install the new, pre-programmed ECM.
- Reconnect the battery.
That’s it. No special tools, no dealership appointments, and no additional programming are required. It’s a true Plug & Play solution designed to get you back on the road quickly and affordably.
Guaranteed Fitment and Compatibility
This Engine Control Module is a direct replacement for 2015 models of the Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine. It is compatible with 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: 05150883AC, 05150883AD, 68280995AA, 68280995AB, 68280995AC, 68280995AD, 68230335, 68230334, 68230333, 68230332, 68230331, 68230330, 68230329, 68230328, 68230327, 68230326, 68230325, 68230324, 68230323, 68230322, 68230321, 68230320, 68230316AE, 68230307AE
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have this programmed by a dealer?
No. This engine computer comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. It is a plug-and-play installation, meaning you can install it yourself without needing any special tools or a trip to the dealership for programming.
What information do you need from me?
We require your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) at checkout. This allows us to load the correct software and security information for your specific car, ensuring seamless integration.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light and associated symptoms are caused by a faulty ECM, then yes, this part will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure you have properly diagnosed the problem, as the CEL can be triggered by many other failing components.
Is any other setup required after installation?
In most cases, no. After installing the module and reconnecting the battery, the vehicle may need to go through a few drive cycles to relearn certain parameters like idle trim, but no manual programming or setup is needed.
Where is the ECM located on my 2015 Challenger/Charger/300?
On these 3.6L models, the ECM is typically located in the engine bay, mounted to the side of the shock tower or near the firewall. It is a silver metal box with several large electrical connectors.