Hi guys, would replacing the ECU in my 97 classic mean having to get the replacement ECU programmed/coded to my transponder at the ignition switch? The car doesn't have any other factory security than that. I'm wanting to change my 8S ECU for a 6S from a STi.

 

Anyone??

 

I could be wrong, but from what ive seen the ECU isnt linked to the key as such, the trasnsponder is around the steering column/ignition barrel and as long as the key and this part still match, you should be fine.

 

Changed the ecu on my 98 classic and it had to be coded.

 

Hmmm, I thought it would be ok too as I saw the transponder unit at the drivers side. Did you have to take it to a dealer to have it coded?

 

No a subaru specialist with a machine for the job.

 

Will be fine on a 97 to swap ecu's without coding

 

has anyone actually done it as people are saying yes and no

 

Ive done it on s 98 and 2000. The 2000 car had a seperate key ecu. The engine ecu was swapped without needing to code keys. i cant see that subaru would have gone backwards with coding from 98 to 2000 the back to using the main ecu in 2001 with the newage cars

 

97 and 98 imprezas are v4 and 99 v5 and from my experience with uk cars v4 need coding if they have the 8s ecu but v5 with the e3 ecu as has the rb5 have do not need coding.

 

Thanks for the replies, I've decided to go with the ESL board instead of trying to swap them about.

 

less messing about and guaranteed to work lol let us know how it runs when fitted

 

I'll maybe document the fitting of the board to my ECU as well to show everyone what it is and does.

 

Also got a Zeitronix ZT-2 kit to fit as well