Control Modules

[derif]

What is the difference between a Vehicle Control Module and an Engine Control Module? My warranty on a 2011 RT is still good for the ecm but the shop is telling me the problem rests with the vcm ($2000 plus labor). Ouch.

 

[robmorg]

What is the difference between a Vehicle Control Module and an Engine Control Module? My warranty on a 2011 RT is still good for the ecm but the shop is telling me the problem rests with the vcm ($2000 plus labor). Ouch.

The ECM controls the engine systems and certain other related systems like the electronic throttle, electronic shifting, etc. The VCM controls the Vehicle Stability System (VSS), which is made up of the Stability Control System, the Antilock Braking system, the Electronic Brake Distribution System, and the Traction Control System. The VSS is often referred to as "the Nanny" because it tries to not allow you to do certain things with the bike that would "get you into trouble". :sour: Both are located near the front of the bike. When necessary, the two modules communicate with each other electronically, via what BRP calls the CAN bus.

I was not aware that these two modules had different warranty coverage. If your Spyder is still covered under the BEST extendeded warranty, I'd give them a call and ask about it.

 

[bmccaffrey]

Don't see why they woul cover one and not the other :dontknow:

I would be making a call :thumbup:

 

[Chupaca]

Odd..!!

Seems the VCM would be the one covered before the ECM. Jmo rather have the engine stall than not be able the handle the roadster...:yikes:

 

[donkes]

call

 

[derif]

Warranty

The ECM controls the engine systems and certain other related systems like the electronic throttle, electronic shifting, etc. The VCM controls the Vehicle Stability System (VSS), which is made up of the Stability Control System, the Antilock Braking system, the Electronic Brake Distribution System, and the Traction Control System. The VSS is often referred to as "the Nanny" because it tries to not allow you to do certain things with the bike that would "get you into trouble". :sour: Both are located near the front of the bike. When necessary, the two modules communicate with each other electronically, via what BRP calls the CAN bus.

I was not aware that these two modules had different warranty coverage. If your Spyder is still covered under the BEST extendeded warranty, I'd give them a call and ask about it.

The Warranty for Emission Parts, which includes the Engine Control Module, is for 30000 kilometers or Five (5) years, whichever occurs first. This was part of the original warranty given when I purchased the bike new. I did not get an extended warranty. Thanks for your input.

 

[IdahoMtnSpyder]

The ECM controls the engine systems and certain other related systems like the electronic throttle, electronic shifting, etc. The VCM controls the Vehicle Stability System (VSS), which is made up of the Stability Control System, the Antilock Braking system, the Electronic Brake Distribution System, and the Traction Control System. The VSS is often referred to as "the Nanny" because it tries to not allow you to do certain things with the bike that would "get you into trouble". :sour: Both are located near the front of the bike. When necessary, the two modules communicate with each other electronically, via what BRP calls the CAN bus.

I just looked at the wiring diagram. I know it's splitting hairs but the VCM really is the the "Nanny". In addition to what you listed inputs also are the Yaw sensor and wheel speed sensors. I think it is probably more accurate to say the VSS is the collection of the VCM and all the other modules that are connected to it. This is another case of inconsistency in nomenclature between the manuals and wiring diagrams. VSS on the wiring diagram refers to vehicle speed sensor.

As to why the ECM is covered and the VCM is not it's probably because of Federal regulations having to do with emissions control systems. All of the components of the emissions system have to be covered up to 50k miles I believe, for cars and trucks anyway, maybe even longer nowadays.