Colleagues:

I know this issue has been discussed previously yet I still find some ambiguity on this and other discussion sites. My problem is a somewhat common issue with a partial tail light/brake light "gremlin" that effects the right tail light, the right brake light and the center brake light. Apparently the "gremlin" in is the Rear Electronic Control Module (RECM). The ambiguity I've discovered is two-fold. One, is a used RECM sufficient and two, must it be "programed" or "flashed" so that it is recognized by the car's other Electronic Control Modules?

I think I need a real professional wizard to explain this replacement process to me. Thanks, in advance to any and all the "wizards" out there!

 

Well the replacement is dead simple. Remove old module. Plug in new module. Do you know where to look for the RECM?

Used is fine but of course you run the risk that it has something wrong with it too. I would swap the module and see what happens. I have heard it both ways. No programming needed and dealer programming required.

Have you found a used RECM yet?
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You need one like yours i.e. same networks etc.

 

Colleagues,

Thanks much for your posts. I know where the RECM is located in the trunk and I've seen several used ones on Ebay. I'll take your advice to "plug it in and see what happens." Haven't we all heard similar words before? ;-)

Jeff
2004 S-Type; base 3.0L and 122K miles

 

Hi Jeff, I believe if you find a RECM - it will need to be programmed to your car for sure. If you plug in and it doesn't work head up to N. Jersey and we'll hook it up to my WDS and sort it out for you.