In order to ensure that the correct parts and indeed quality parts are fitted to their vehicles, manufacturers of both cars and vans follow what’s called ECU programming. There are many parts on cars and vans that need ECU programming and there is a common problem that many owners face when buying parts whereby when fitting them they discover that the they do not work unless of course the onboard computer is aware of them.

So what exactly is ECU programming you may ask? Well many parts on cars and vans need ECU programming which is short for Electronic Computer Unit programming, with many computer units being situated throughout the car to manage parts programmed to them.

If these certain parts need to be replaced it is vital that they are programmed to the computer in order that the vehicle works. These typically are parts from cars and vans dated from 2007. With these models, new parts will need to be reprogrammed, through the ECU, in order to get the vehical working again. This may mean that once fitted, you need to get help with re-programming from a specialist diagnosis mechanic and your local dealer may be able to help with this. Please also be aware that certain parts will need to re-programmed before fitting.

Most modern Vaxhaull (Opel) electrical parts require resetting whilst in the vehicle itself and will need to go through the process of ECU programming.

However, not all parts will require this specialist treatment so we have developed a list to help and inform you of which do:

All BMW models and include most parts even including the satellite navigation system.

The Volkswagen Golf 2010, 2000cc, TDI speedometer

The Throttle Body in a Toyota Yaris 2009

The Ford Fiesta 2009 power fold wing mirror

The Peugeot 407 2010 clock and all electrical modules and displays

Vauxhall Astra 2005 Fuse box

Vauxhall Astra H MK5 2004-2010

All Vauxhall:

Engines ECU – the engine ECU will require a reset and needs to be reprogrammed to the new vehicle with security details of the vehicle in order to work.

UEC ( Underhood electrical center ) – this also requires a reset, then will also need to be re-programming to the new vehicle.

Instrument Clocks (Dash clocks) – these will also have to be reset from the donor vehicle, and be re-programmed in the same way.

The Radio CD30 / CD70 / CD30MP3 will need resetting before fitting, then will also require programming in order to work.

Central displays will also require resetting and re-programming ( fuel consumption, time and date).

Vauxhall Corsa D 2006-2011- Radio CD30 / CD70 / CD30MP3 – these will need to be reset before fitting, then will also require re-programming.

You will need to remember and ensure that all the above parts are reset before fitting to the new vehicles as they come programmed already.