A car's engine control module (ECM) is a computer system that acts as the "brain" of a car. This little computer analyzes lots of information in order to control the car's performance. When the ECM fails, it will greatly hurt the engine's performance. At its worst, a bad car ECM chip may even result to a car not starting.

Here is a simple guide to help you replace a broken ECM.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Tools Needed:

Wrench set
Socket Set
Replacement ECM

Step 1: Before beginning, make sure that the car is turned off. Remove the battery cables with a socket wrench. Don't forget to ground yourself afterwards to avoid damaging the computer chip.

Step 2: Locate the car's ECM. The location differs from model to model. It can be placed in the engine compartment, passenger floorboard, under the seats, or behind the kick panels. Refer to your car owner's manual for guidance.

Step 3: Remove all the bolts and brackets that hold the ECM in place.

Step 4: Slightly pull the ECM out just enough to disconnect all the plugs behind it. Make sure that the plugs' ends do not bend. Once free, completely pull out the ECM.

Step 5: For cars that have a PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory) chip, remove the PROM from the old ECM and simply insert it to the PROM slot of the replacement ECM.

Step 6: Reconnect all the plugs to the new ECM and place the unit back to its place. Return all the holdings and brackets to secure the ECM.

Step 7: Start the car and let it idle for about 5 minutes. If there are any problems, the "Check Engine" indicator will light up.

car ECM chip replacement can be done in 30 minutes.