1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse 2.0 non-turbo DOHC engine vin y. Car stalled and turns over but will not start. Towed to repair shop and at first they said it was a defective cam or crank sensor, but now they say it is the computer control module and I will have to tow it to a dealer and have a new one flashed. I see that Advance Auto has a Cardone ECC model 793013 for the manual trans model that is remanufactured and calibation is Pre-Flashed at the factory, but requires VIN and Mileage programming. Is this something that the dealer has to do or can most auto shops do this?

Don't get the "Cardone ECC model 793013" . i just check it out and when you click on the " See all vehicles this product fits " link, it shows this:
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the problem with it is that the '97 PCM will not work on a '98. the pinouts on them are slightly different. The only 2 years that are interchangable are the 98 and 99 year models.
The part number for the correct one is 5293190AC.


If you get a remanned PCM that needs progamming, anyone or any shop with the correct programming tool can do it.

• PCM (ECU) REPROGRAMMING

1995~1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS & GS with 2.0L non-turbo engine (Chrysler 420A engine) ECUs have been equipped with reprogrammable processors since 1995.
To reprogram Mitsubishi vehicles, you must use one of two different reprogramming tools. For the 1995~1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS & GS (with Chrysler 420A engine), you must use a Chrysler Flash Reprogramming Unit, MIT992000-A . Click here to order one from SPX, or call them at 1-800-533-5338.
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I would suggest just buying a used (98 or 99)PCM. Then all you have to do is unplug the old one, take out 3 bolts to remove the bracket/PCM, pull it out, 3more bolts to remove the ecu from the bracket and bolt the new one in place. Its about a 5 min. job.

The dealer would probably have to do programming. may not use your part from advanced. i understand you have trusted a shop for diagnosis. sounds like theyre still unsure. computers are very durable and usually dont commit suicide. be sure they have checked timing belt for slippage or breakage. if the belt jumped a tooth or so, that could screw up cam and crank readings.