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How do you manually program a Toyota ECU?

I had to replace the computer in my Toyota after an accident. That part is done, but now the ECU needs to be programmed so that my car will start. I would love to avoid any more mechanic bills because of this accident, so I'm hoping to do this myself. How do you manually program a Toyota ECU?

avatar
Sarah Gray · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
To program a
Toyota
ECU manually, grab a paperclip and follow these steps:
  • Locate the ECU plug/connector—this is below your steering wheel near your driver’s side door
  • Bend the paperclip (or other sturdy but flexible wire) into a U shape
  • Stick one end of the wire in pin slot 4 and the other end in pin slot 13
  • Leave the paperclip or wire inserted and start the car
  • Let the car run for at least 30 minutes
  • Turn off the ignition, remove the paperclip, and your car should start normally with your remote key fob
If this doesn’t work, you can try resetting the ECU by disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes. When you reconnect the battery, the
check engine light
should be off.
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