1.8Tizzle

Will an ECU from an Automatic 98-99 Passat (557P) work correctly in a 97 A4 5spd. Quattro? Both cars are 1.8t, and the passat is nDBW also i assume, based on the year. I am just worried about the difference in transmission. Will this be a problem?
thank you!
-Jonah K.

BSCA4

Yes, Passat nDBW ECU are same with Audi A4 nDBW.

DON2.0T

no. auto to manual doesn't work

JAFO

but you'll need a vag-com or a trip to a dealer.

starting ...

2nd

Nate (ETKA+Scumbag)

Yes, with VAG-COM use code 06201 to recode the ECU.

4Rings::G2 boosted::

Of course it does. You can recode the ECU. I've done it myself.

1.8Tizzle

So then the general consensus is that it will work, but not without recoding? Would a passat/a4 ecu from a MANUAL car work without recoding? I did previous research on this forum and some people seemed to think that the transmission type was 'soft' coded in the ecu, so it could operate both an auto and manual car. My current ECU is completely screwed so i dont know how i'd get the car to a dealership.

4Rings::G2 boosted::

The error code is for lack of communication with the tranny controller, since the auto trannys have one and manuals do not. However, if you ignore the CEL the car will be perfectly drivable.

A manual to manual swap doesn't require a recode, assuming the two ECUs are from compatible years.

1.8Tizzle

My Audi dealership isnt exactly 'local', theres a VW dealer much closer, would they be able/willing to recode it for me?