Help. I need some expert information and advice. I am removing my original '03 AP1 engine and replacing with an '05 AP2 engine. I want to replace my '03 ECM with the '05 ECM that came with the engine. Everything so far is "plug & play" until I realized the issue with the key chip & ECM. I want to do this the right way so that everything works properly, sensors, etc. Not looking to hack the system or bypass imobilizer. I'll be installing my OEM IM which is throttle cable and completely compatible. (so I've been told). Other than K&N intake, Invidia Headers, Berk Hi flow cat and Tannabi cat-back exhaust (all running fine before) the engine will be stock...only 33,500 miles. I've had one contact with a Honda service advisor. They said I would need to bring the car in for reprogramming: 1. First to reprogram the car to the new ECM.
2. then reprogram the key to the car. (and no guarantee that it would work) I understand that the '05 key itself is quite different from my '03, but I assume the "chip" communication is still the same?

So, my question(s) is will this work? Can "Honda" do this right? Is there any advantage to having the original keys for the reprogramming process ( I think I can borrow them) I have the vin # for the '05 too along with the original tdc cam sensors if they are different. I should be able to start the car with a blank of my key and the original key taped to it, is that true?

I hope someone out there can set me straight on how best to get this done.

I thank you all.

 

All the dealer needs to do is program the pcm to the vehicle. They have to rewrite your vehicle vin # into the ap2 pcm. The key programming will promptly follow that in the programming sequence.

 

What ^ said.

I'm a tech at Honda and that's what I would do.

 

Great. Sounds pretty simple and straight forward. However, will I be able to start my car to drive it to the dealership? If I can get a hold of the old key & tape the head to a blank key that fits my car's ignition, will I be able to get it to start and drive it? I need to make sure it's going to at least start and run, get the air out of coolant system, no leaks, that sort of thing before I actually take it to a dealer. Would I be better off leaving the AP1 ECM in car to get it started and running and simple test drive and then swap the ECM for reprogramming the car & keys at the dealership?

Thank you both for your replies. Any other ideas out there or confirmations?

 

also why are you bothering with the IM? 05 f22 are drive by cable just like your 03 f20.

 

I know that. Not messing with it at all. Simply stated I was reinstalling on my new motor. All I bought was the long block w/o the valve cover.

 

Run the car firstly with the AP1 ECU until all your issues are sorted and you know the car is running fine, then take it to the dealership and swap the ECU in the parking lot. The techs can then push the car into the shop and do the ECU reprogram.

Or have them swap the ECU for you. There will surely be a competent tech that's capable of doing this without making a mess of things.

 

Yes, I think that's what I'll do. I kind of came to that conclusion myself today after some further research. From what I've heard there should not be any issues getting it running with the AP1 ECU. Thanks for your input and confirmation. Can't wait to get her up & running again.