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Service Action ZR - Replace Engine Control Module (CANADA) (ZR (CAN))

WARNING: This page is about the Passat TDI, 4D Sedan, Automatic, which is a different variant/trim than selected.
Publication date: 1996-03-01
Reference number: ZR (CAN)

SERVICE ACTION ZR - REPLACE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (CANADA)

SERVICE ACTION ZR - REPLACE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (CANADA)

SERVICE CAMPAIGN BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): ZR (CAN), Date of Issue:  March 1996
VOLKSWAGEN: 1996 Passat and Cabrio

SUBJECT

ZR Service Action

We wish to inform you that a small number of 1996 model year Passat 4 and 6 cylinder and Cabrio vehicles need to have the Electronic Control Module (ECM) replaced.

It is possible that if a vehicle idles for an extended period of time after cold-start in low ambient temperature, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may illuminate.

Enclosed please find the Work and Accounting Procedures for completion of the ZR Service Action repair.

REPLACEMENT PARTS

  1. Passat (4-cyl): 037 906 259 C
  2. Passat (6-cyl): 021 906 259 B
  3. Cabrio: 037 906 259 B

PARTS RETURN

Removed ECM's must be placed in the original packaging of the replacement ECM and returned to:

  1. Volkswagen Canada. Inc.
  2. Parts Depot
  3. 777 Bayly Street West
  4. Ajax, Ontario
  5. Canada L1S 7G7
  6. Attn. ZR Service Action

WORK PROCEDURE

A. REPLACE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) ALL MODELS

  1. Remove ECM.
    NOTE: Prior to removing ECM, connect VAG 1551; check DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) readout and correct if other than P0125/16509.
    • Ignition switch off.
    • Remove plenum chamber cover, right side.
    • Disconnect 68 pin connector -1-. (Fig 1)
    • Remove bolt and nuts -2- and -2a-. (Fig 1)
    • Pull out mounting plate -3- with ECM -4-. (Fig 1)
    • Separate mounting plate from ECM, removing screw -5-. (Fig 1)
    • Do not remove felt pads -6- from mounting plate. (Fig 1)
  2. Fig 1: ECM And Mounting Plate
    G00481754
  3. Install and Set New ECM.
    NOTE: When installing the ECM, identification label must be upward.
    • Install latest version ECM.
    • Ensure that plastic clip - see Fig 1 - is properly in position.
    • Tighten bolt and nut -2- and -2a- (10 Nm. - 7 ft lb). (Fig 1)
    • Code Control Module (Scan Tool Function 07). Follow procedure in appropriate repair manual.
    • Check DTC Memory (Scan Tool Function 02). Follow procedure in appropriate repair manual.
    • Erase DTC Memory (Scan Tool Function 05). Follow procedure in appropriate repair manual.
  4. Perform Basic Setting
    • Press buttons -0- and -4- to select "Basic Setting" Function 04 and press -Q- button to confirm input.
    • Press buttons -0-, -9- and -8- to input display 098 and press -Q- to confirm input.
      NOTE: Do not depress accelerator pedal.
    • VAG 1551 display in channel 4 will indicate adaptation completed by showing "I.O."
    • If display does NOT show "I.O.", stop procedure at this step find cause and repair. Begin again with "Basic setting". If "I.O." continue with next step.

    • Wait at least 30 seconds before ending basic setting then press -> button.
    • Press button -0- and -6- and press -Q- button to confirm input - (end output).
    • Disconnect VAG 1551.
    • Start engine and let idle until coolant temperature is above 80 degrees Centigrade.
    • Reconnect VAG 1551.
    • Check DTC Memory (Scan Tool Function 02). Follow procedure in appropriate repair manual.
    • Set and verify readiness code - 01.29 - 01.54. Follow procedure in appropriate repair manual.

REPLACEMENT TIME/REIMBURSEMENT

To ensure proper payment, be sure to enter correct reimbursement data into the system only for VIN's showing the ZR code in the V-Crest system.

DATA ENTRY PROCEDURE - PASSAT

Damage Code Time Units Work Scope
ZR 12 100 T.U. Replace ECM (Inventory vehicle)
1 ECM 021 906 259 B or 037 906 259 C
ZR 13 100 T.U. Replace ECM (Customer Owned Vehicle with Complaint or Corrected During Maintenance/Repair Work)
1 ECM 021 906 259 B or 037 906 259 C
Wash/Vacuum Vehicle ($8.00)
DATA ENTRY PROCEDURE - CABRIO

Damage Code Time Units Work Scope
ZR 14 100 T.U. Replace ECM (Inventory vehicle)
1 ECM 037 906 259 B
ZR 15 100 T.U. Replace ECM (Customer Owned Vehicle with Complaint or Corrected During Maintenance/Repair Work)
1 ECM 037 906 259 B
Wash/Vacuum Vehicle ($8.00)

The system automatically enters the appropriate labor and part number for the above listed codes.

IMPORTANT: You must enter total of $8.00 in Sublet labor field for Washing/Vacuuming vehicle where applicable.

For all vehicles which, according to your information are unreachable, please enter into the system one of the codes indicated below, as applicable:

  1. ZR 20 - Customer Refused Repairs
  2. ZR 30 - Total Loss
  3. ZR 40 - Vehicle Stolen
  4. ZR 50 - Vehicle Left Canada
  5. ZR 60 - Customer Moved - No Forwarding Address
  6. ZR 70 - Vehicle Sold - New Owner Unknown