Choose the Correct ECU Engine Control Unit Variant
Not every engine control unit can be prepared in every available version. The possible preparation method depends on the ECU manufacturer, vehicle model, immobiliser system, hardware and software version.
Important: contact Auto24Parts before placing your order.
Send the complete ECU part number, a clear photograph of the original label or a link to the product. We will verify the available preparation options and recommend the most suitable version for your vehicle.
Email: contact@auto24parts.com
Three Main ECU Variants
1. Locked ECU
A standard used ECU containing immobiliser data, coding and configuration from the previous vehicle. Professional unlocking and programming are required before installation.
2. Unlocked ECU
An ECU prepared in one of several available versions: PIN / CAR PASS, Virgin, IMMO OFF, Auto Programming or Clone.
3. Full Set
A complete Plug & Play set supplied with the ECU and the immobiliser-related components required to start the vehicle.
1. Locked ECU
A Locked ECU is supplied with the immobiliser information, security coding and vehicle configuration stored from the previous car.
This version is intended mainly for professional workshops and automotive electronics specialists with the equipment required for ECU unlocking, resetting, coding and adaptation.
Choose this version only if your workshop can complete the required programming procedure before installation.
2. Unlocked ECU
An Unlocked ECU can be prepared using several different methods depending on the controller manufacturer, immobiliser system, hardware version, software version and available data.
Not every engine computer supports every preparation method. After checking the complete ECU reference number, Auto24Parts technicians will recommend the most suitable option for the vehicle.
The available Unlocked ECU preparation options are listed below:
a) ECU with PIN Code / CAR PASS
The ECU is supplied with the original PIN or CAR PASS code.
After installation, the controller must be reset and programmed to the vehicle using compatible diagnostic equipment. The immobiliser adaptation procedure must then be completed.
b) Virgin ECU
A Virgin ECU has been cleared of the previous vehicle information and restored to a clean or factory-default state.
After installation, it requires programming, coding or immobiliser adaptation using professional diagnostic equipment.
This is the standard preparation method for many replacement engine control units when another option has not been selected.
c) Plug & Play – IMMO OFF
Where technically possible, the immobiliser function is disabled in the ECU.
After installation, the engine can operate without the standard immobiliser programming procedure.
Not every ECU supports IMMO OFF. Availability depends on the controller hardware, software and vehicle security system.
d) Plug & Play – Auto Programming
After installation, the ECU automatically adapts to the vehicle and stores the required information.
Under normal conditions, no manual coding or programming is required. This option is available only for selected engine computers and vehicle models.
e) Plug & Play – Clone
The replacement ECU is cloned from the original controller. Immobiliser data, coding, configuration and other required information are transferred to another compatible working engine computer.
Clone service requirements:
- The original ECU must be sent to Auto24Parts.
- The required data must be readable through diagnostic communication or direct memory access.
- If the original ECU has no communication, cloning may still be possible only when the memory data can be recovered directly.
- If the required data is damaged or unavailable, the Clone service cannot be completed.
3. Full Set
A Full Set is a complete Plug & Play package containing the ECU together with the immobiliser-related components required to start the vehicle.
Depending on the vehicle manufacturer and security system, the set may include:
- engine control unit;
- immobiliser module;
- BSI or BCM body control module;
- dashboard or instrument cluster;
- ignition switch or ignition lock;
- key and transponder;
- other security-related components required by the vehicle.
All supplied components must be installed in the vehicle.
The exact contents of the Full Set depend on the vehicle and are listed in the individual product offer.
Important Information
- Preparation availability depends on the exact ECU reference, hardware and software version.
- Not every controller supports Virgin, IMMO OFF, Auto Programming or Clone.
- Some engine control units are available in only one preparation version.
- A Virgin ECU requires programming after installation.
- IMMO OFF and Clone services are available only for selected controllers.
- The Clone service normally requires the original ECU.
- Technical preparation may extend dispatch by approximately 1–2 business days.
- Contact Auto24Parts before ordering if you are unsure which version is required.
How to Choose the Correct ECU Variant
Send us the complete ECU part number, a clear photograph of the label or a link to the product. We will check whether the controller can be supplied as Locked, Virgin, IMMO OFF, Auto Programming, Clone or as a Full Set.
Tip: the ECU part number is more important than the vehicle model alone. Always provide the complete Bosch, Siemens, Continental, Delphi, Magneti Marelli, Denso or OEM references whenever possible.
Related ECU Categories
Browse our complete Engine Control Unit range or selected categories including Fiat engine control units, Mercedes ECU modules and Citroen engine controllers.
The correct preparation method should always be confirmed before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Locked, Unlocked and Full Set ECUs?
A Locked ECU contains data from the previous vehicle and requires professional programming. An Unlocked ECU is prepared using one of several available methods. A Full Set includes the ECU together with the immobiliser components required to start the vehicle.
Can every ECU be prepared as Plug & Play?
No. Available preparation methods depend on the ECU manufacturer, vehicle model, immobiliser system, hardware and software version.
What is a Virgin ECU?
A Virgin ECU is cleared of the previous vehicle data and prepared for programming and adaptation to another vehicle.
What does IMMO OFF mean?
IMMO OFF means that the immobiliser function is disabled in the ECU. This option is available only for selected controllers.
Can you clone my ECU?
Yes, provided that the required immobiliser and configuration data can be recovered from the original controller.
What is included in a Full Set?
A Full Set includes the ECU and the immobiliser-related components required to start the vehicle. The exact contents depend on the model and are listed in the product offer.
How do I know which version I need?
Send the complete ECU part number, a clear photograph of the label or a product link. We will verify the available preparation methods before you place your order.
Need Help Choosing the Right ECU Variant?
Send us the complete ECU part number, a clear photograph of the label or a link to the product. Our technicians will verify the available preparation methods and recommend the most suitable solution for your vehicle.
Email: contact@auto24parts.com
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