November 4, 2024

Miataville

Wanna Go Topless?

My car has lost it’s friggin’ mind!!!

As promised The continuing saga of CEL 16….

Fresh off the install of the replacement throttle body and IAC, I still had the mysterious and frustrating CEL code 16…. EGR ….ARRRRRRRRRRRRGGGHHHHHHH !!!!

Being an amateur car repair wannabe,  I decided I need professional help…. again.  I opted to take the car back to the dealer to see what it is what.

The dealer happened to have a light day that day so several top techs got on it.  Turns out my ECU (or PCM, or computer, or brain) was failing to send a signal to close the pesky solenoids (so the old ones might actually be o.k.,  but after 17 yrs of service I am o.k. with the fact I replaced them).  It was suggested and advised I replace the ECU.  They even said I might be able to find a good one on the used market to save some $$.

I looked at the ECU and indeed it had been wet before…once or twice.  There was corrosion on the outside of the metal housing.  If any moisture got inside that could have caused some issues when it gets hot and I notice the CEL mostly when the car gets hot inside.  Incidentally I rarely have the CEL in the winter.

Old Crusty ECU
Old Crusty the ECU

I did my online searches and plenty of people have the ECU for the ridiculous used price of $300.  In some cases even more than anew one.  W-T-F!?

Screw ‘em.  I rang up Tom at The Parts Group, (/no longer in business/), again but he was out of the one I needed.  Crapola! on a stick! He sold them for $150.  I watched and waited for 3 weeks, checking weekly and he finally got one in and posted it online.  It was mine… oh yes it was all mine! FIRST!!!!

I installed it that weekend… >wait<… I disconnected the battery first, then I installed it.  With much anticipation I connected the battery back and turned the key, and voila it started immediately.  It felt a little more aggressive and eager at idle and in revs as the new ECU began it’s cycle to learn about it’s new home.

I really, really wanted to go for a drive but the fates were aligned against me.  While doing my visual walk around inspection I notice the tread was separating from the sidewall on the drivers front tire. So, I said to myself, “I think it is a sign..I should plan to get tires!”

 

….Next The tires and the fate of CEL 16…