hello
i see used computers for sale in classifieds on various computers. i was just wondering if you guys could school me on this. i come from mustang world, where theres 2 computers, one auto, one manual, from 89-93 (years with mass air) theyre all interchangeable. what computer could i use in my 1997 a4 quattro 1.8t with an auto?
thanks!

 

Ecu - aka computer?

You just need one that's auto and matched your engine which I believe is AEB.

 

yeah ecu, computer. which ever you prefer. whatever the part is that gets chipped haha. and yeah, mine is an AEB. its only got 70k on it. i want a chip is why i ask. will any year 97-01 work?

 

No. The ECU's are matched to engine codes because there were many changes to the layout of the 1.8t between 97 and 01.5. This is a helpful engine code table located in the FAQ sticky



If you want/need a spare ECU, it will have to be out of a 97, 98, or 99 US-spec A4 1.8t. ECU's from these cars should have a part number printed on the case ending in "-557 P." Auto/manual can be easily re-coded with Vag-Com, but the part number is important.

 

Why are you looking for another ecu exactly? To have a spare? I know its a dumb sounding question but you can just chip whats in there. There might be a dealer around who can flash for you. But it looks like you have another car to drive so just confused.

 

mainly looking because there are frequently used ones, with a chip/flash already. just trying to save a few bucks he he he.
and thanks CCA4, guess i need one from a 97, 98, or 99 with ending code -557 p. this is exactly what i was looking for!

im pretty sure i could have access to vag com if need be. my uncle has it, but no cable. but he has a usb cable for a laptop based obd 2 code reader. i think i can get them to play together.

and jonbonesjones really only have one car. once i do my last race in november, the mustang gets covered in the garage for the winter

 

Yeah people pick up spare ECU's all the time for that exact reason. Many vendors require that you mail them your ECU in order to flash it, and they're not always punctual getting it back to you. There's a vag-com locator sticky right below the FAQ sticky I linked in my other post, you might try paging through it to see if there's anyone in your area who could re-code an ECU for you.

Welcome to AF!

 

im looking into a cheap way to get vag com now. apparently theres a $9 amazon cable that will work.

instead of making another thread, maybe it could be answered here. any idea what flip key i would need? my car didnt come with a remote, so i figured id upgrade to a flip key.

 

97 had a remote separate from the key. I'm not sure if you can upgrade to a key fob or not?

 

yeah it had a separate remote from key. but ive heard i can use a flip key. i just really want keyless entry. the guy at VW parts department will cut an ebay key for free for me. just gotta find one that will work.