abbyNormal

Yes, that's one reason. The other is that I've walked through all the diagnostics for the trans that I can without taking it apart. Almost all of them indicate a code would be set if something was really wrong inside the trans. I've run all of the live tests I can with the techstream stuff. Everything is doing what's supposed to (lockup off/on, shift solenoids operating etc).

If I could find out what's what soon from the dealer I might go for it, but to wait until June 6th or later is pushing it. I don't think it's good for the car. I know it'll cost me $200-$300 (and time off work to drop it off and pick it up) just to get them to look at. If they want to crack open the trans, the price is going to go up from there.

I figure it's 50% they'll want to replace the trans and 50% the ECM. If they do the ECM it will probably be close $2000 spent to get where I'd be ordering the ECM myself and replacing it.

AN

Coulter

Did you end up replacing the ECM?

Never heard back on this one.

LEX ES300

I have replaced the engine ecu on my 2004 ls430 (with smart key system) and i did it myself! Bought a second hand one for $450 in excellent condition. Absolutely no need to get your existing smart keys re keyed or replaced etc. You would only need to do that if you replaced one of the ecu's inside the car. You dont need to if you are replacing the engine ecu which is located under the hood in the engine bay. You just need to follow directions above in that picture previously posted. I swapped ecu's to try to fix a trans issue of no engine braking downhills but it didnt fix the issue, but im still using the ecu.
After immediately replacing ecu i had to bridge 2 terminals in the obd plug for a short while then leave engine in on position (not actually started) till the new ecu learns the new code. Doesnt take long Then clear the engine code with techstream then engine will start.

abbyNormal

See my reply here.