If an engine in a 2002 Safari is replaced with a newer engine, does the computer have to be reprogrammed?

Asked by cadweezel Dec 01, 2014 at 06:52 PM about the 2002 GMC Safari 3 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have a 2002 Safari and had the motor replaced, but I don't know if the mechanic used
another 2002 motor or used a newer one.  The problem I'm having is that when I take
off from a stop, I feel the idle kick up and it slowly increases speed until reaching
about 50 mph without having pressed the accelerator at all.  Then when i stop, it idles
back down to what feels normal until I let off the brake, then at about 3 mph, the idle
kicks up again.  I replaced the oxygen sensor on the passenger side and the idle air
control valve. I tried to clean the EGR valve, but couldn't locate it and that's what
leads me to believe the motor is newer than 2002.  I read on other forums that 2003
and newer Safaris don't have an EGR valve.

10,985

ytlas answered 9 years ago

You may have something. I looked at the ECM (computer) part numbers for the 4.3l V6 and each year 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 ECM has a different part number. However, on the ad for each year ECM, "This Is A Flash Unit; OE No. XXXXXXXX; Flash Technology; Requires Local Reprogramming" Maybe you need it reprogrammed?

Mark helpful

45,325

Deathjam4 answered 9 years ago

well he probley also used a used engine unless you specificly asked for a new one. So yea if you put in anouther engine it needs to be reprogramed at your local dealer unless the mechanic did it already. but an idle issue could also be caused by a sticky thortal body. Take off your main air filter and hose and spray the main throtal plate with some wd40 if it does not move freely. also check your distributor and rotor cause i know for a fact that these vans can literaly burn a chunk of the rotor off if it is to old which leads to this kinda issue.

1 people found this helpful.

Mark helpful