The Engine Clean standard: prove whether the fault is inside the unit, then choose the most sensible technical route.
Why make and model are not enough for a price
Vehicles can use different control-unit families, hardware revisions and software within the same model range. The ECU identity, part numbers, failure mode, vehicle data and work required all affect the route. That is why Engine Clean will not invent a fixed price from the vehicle description alone.
When an in-house repair may make sense
A confirmed component, connection or PCB fault may be repairable while retaining the original vehicle data. The feasibility depends on the damage, parts availability, previous tampering and whether the unit can be safely restored and tested.
When a donor ECU may be better
A reputable salvage donor can be a cost-effective option when it is compatible and passes testing. It may need cloning, programming or coding before it can operate correctly in the vehicle. A donor that merely looks similar is not enough.
What to send for an accurate route
Start with the make, model and year plus registration, VIN or a clear ECU-label photograph. We may then ask for case and connector-pin photographs or details of the donor unit. Identification comes before a meaningful estimate.
Straight answers
Before ECU or module work
How much does ECU repair cost?
It depends on the exact ECU, the failure, test results, required parts and whether repair, cloning or programming is appropriate. Engine Clean does not price from the vehicle alone.
Can a new ECU cost more than £2,000?
Yes, on some makes and models a new ECU and associated fitting or programming can exceed £2,000. That is not a universal price and alternative routes depend on testing and compatibility.
Is a used ECU always cheaper?
The purchase price may be lower, but the donor must be suitable and may require testing, data transfer, programming or coding. A faulty or incompatible customer-supplied unit can add cost.