Help with ECU/ECM replacement!
 

Hi guys. I'm posting my question here because I searched all over the forums but the information I found was either very vague or not conclusive. So here is the story:

I need to replace the ECM of my 2.3L mazda 3. The complete data is:
Year: 2004
Transmission: Manual
VIN#: JM1BK343641138487

I am so confused because my car's exact ECM part number is L3Z1-18-881C and I have found a lot of other ECMs online with slight changes in the numbers and stating that they are compatible, or promising that they will fit with my model with no hassle at all.

So my question is: Is there such thing as compatible ECMs? Or do I have to find the EXACT number / code for my car?? Can an L371-18-881B or an L371-18-881C for example, be compatible and work fine with my car??

Thank you so much for all your help guys! ;peace;

I'd be careful because one might be for an automatic car. Same year, same car, different ECU. Double check that it's the one for your transmission. :) Also, California has more strict smog laws than the rest of the country, so the ECU may be different for a Cali car. I know mine was in my Cali grown 2002 Protege5.

If I were you, I'd look for the exact one. Good luck!

Thanks for your reply eggynatey, unfortunately trying to find this part has been like the proverbial needle in the haystack for me. Therefore the need to find an alternative (if any) like using another ECU/PCM that might be compatible with the stock computer.

To all the fellow readers, any additional information or past experiences will be appreciated.

Thanks!