Used PCM / ECM Replacement on 2006–2013 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram - SKIM PIN and VIN Transfer Procedure

Used module eligibility - 2006–2013 only

Before starting any used module replacement job on a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle, confirm the vehicle is in the eligible year range. Trying to install a used module on a 2014 or newer vehicle will fail the procedure simply doesn't work on those platforms:

- 2006–2013 - Used PCM / ECM module allowed.
- 2014 and newer - New module required. Used is NOT eligible.

If your vehicle is 2014 or newer, stop here. You need a new module sourcing a used one will waste time and money. For 2014+ procedures, see related articles on programming-specific years.

Used PCM / ECM replacement procedure (2006–2013 CDJ / Ram)

Follow the four steps below in order. The most common cause of a no-start after this procedure is starting Step 4 without having obtained the SKIM PIN in Step 1 — always get the PIN first.

Step 1 - Obtain the SKIM PIN code from the dealer:

The SKIM (Sentry Key Immobilizer Module) PIN code is required to program the replacement PCM / ECM. Without the correct PIN, the replacement module cannot be programmed and the vehicle will not start.

- Contact your local Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Ram dealer service department.
- Provide the full vehicle VIN number.
- Request the SKIM PIN code (sometimes called the "SKIM code") for that VIN.

Important: Always obtain the SKIM PIN code BEFORE removing the old module. Without the correct PIN, the replacement module cannot be programmed and the vehicle will not start.

Step 2 - Identify the correct PCM part number on Stellantis IOP:

If the correct replacement PCM part number is unknown, use the Stellantis IOP portal to look up the latest flash file and confirm the correct part number before ordering. Skip this step if you already have the confirmed part number:

- Log in to the Stellantis IOP portal at https://stellantisiop.com/iop/app/secure/dashboard.
- Click on "Diagnostic Tools" at the top of the page.
- Select "J2534 Flash" from the menu.
- Enter the full vehicle VIN number in the search field.
- Review the results — the portal will display the part numbers for the latest flash files available for that vehicle.
- Use the displayed part number to confirm or order the correct replacement PCM / ECM.

Step 3 - License WiTECH 2 and flash the PCM:

After obtaining the SKIM PIN code and confirming the correct part number, license WiTECH 2 and flash the PCM to the latest available calibration:

- License WiTECH 2 for the specific vehicle being serviced.
- Flash the PCM to the latest available flash file for that vehicle.
- Use the SKIM PIN code obtained in Step 1 during the programming process.

Step 4 - Transfer VIN and SKIM secret key to the new module:

After flashing the PCM, transfer the vehicle VIN and synchronize the SKIM data to the new module. This ties the replacement PCM to the vehicle and allows the immobilizer to recognize it. Skipping or partially completing this step is the most common cause of a no-start after used PCM replacement.

VIN transfer in WiTECH 2:

- Connect the WiTECH 2 interface to the vehicle OBD-II port and launch the WiTECH 2 application.
- Select the vehicle from the vehicle identification screen or enter the VIN manually.
- Navigate to the PCM / ECM module within the scan tool menu.
- Select "Miscellaneous Functions" or "Module Functions" from the PCM menu.
- Choose "Write VIN" or "Program VIN" from the available functions.
- Confirm or enter the 17-digit VIN when prompted. Verify it matches the door jamb sticker exactly.
- Follow all on-screen prompts to complete the VIN write procedure.

SKIM synchronization in WiTECH 2:

- Remaining in the WiTECH 2 PCM module menu, navigate to SKIM or Immobilizer functions.
- Select "SKIM Transfer," "Secret Key Transfer," or "PCM Replaced" depending on the vehicle year and platform.
- When prompted, enter the SKIM PIN code obtained from the dealer in Step 1.
- WiTECH 2 will transfer the secret key from the SKIM module to the new PCM.
- After the transfer completes, cycle the ignition OFF and back ON.
- Verify no SKIM or immobilizer-related DTCs are present. The vehicle should now start normally.

Important: The SKIM PIN code obtained in Step 1 is required to complete this procedure. Failure to complete the VIN and SKIM transfer will result in a no-start condition.

Notes on the SKIM transfer

A few things to know about how the SKIM transfer actually works:

- The SKIM module retains the secret key and transfers it to the new PCM- the SKIM module itself does NOT need to be replaced.
- If the SKIM module was also replaced, both modules will need to be initialized together using WiTECH 2.
- If DTCs return after the transfer, recheck the PIN code entry and repeat the SKIM synchronization procedure.
- On some platforms, the function may be labeled "Restore Secret Key" or "Immobilizer Initialization" the process is the same.

Quick reference checklist

Before returning the vehicle to the customer, confirm:

- Vehicle year is 2006–2013 (used module eligible).
- SKIM PIN code obtained from the dealer using the vehicle VIN.
- Correct PCM part number confirmed via Stellantis IOP portal (if previously unknown).
- WiTECH 2 licensed for the vehicle.
- PCM flashed to the latest calibration using J2534 flash.
- VIN written to the new PCM using WiTECH 2.
- SKIM secret key transfer completed using the PIN code.
- Ignition cycled and no SKIM / immobilizer DTCs present.
- Vehicle starts normally.

Related articles

- Programming a New PCM on a 2015 Dodge Ram - WiTECH 2 and NASTF PIN Procedure.- https://knowledgebase.aetools.us/programming-a-new-pcm-in-a-2015-dodge-ram

Contact AETools for support

For additional help with Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / Ram used module replacement, SKIM PIN questions, or Stellantis IOP J2534 flash lookup, contact AETools:

- Phone: 913-856-6678
- Website: https://aesolutions.us - Submit a support ticket online