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Where is the ECU on a 1990 Toyota Corolla?

The Engine Control Unit (ECU) on a 1990 Toyota Corolla is typically located under the hood, often near the firewall or on the side of the engine block. The ECU is a critical component that manages the engine's electronic systems, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control.


Understanding the ECU's Role


The ECU is the brain of the vehicle's electronic system, responsible for monitoring and controlling various engine functions. It receives input from various sensors, such as the oxygen sensor, throttle position sensor, and engine coolant temperature sensor, and uses this information to adjust the engine's performance accordingly. This ensures optimal fuel efficiency, emissions, and engine performance.


Locating the ECU in a 1990 Toyota Corolla



  • The ECU is typically located under the hood, either near the firewall or on the side of the engine block.

  • It is often housed in a protective plastic or metal casing to shield it from the elements and vibrations.

  • The ECU may be mounted on the inner fender well, the top of the engine, or the side of the engine block, depending on the specific model and year of the Toyota Corolla.

  • The ECU is usually connected to the engine's wiring harness, allowing it to receive and transmit signals to various sensors and actuators.


Knowing the location of the ECU can be helpful when troubleshooting engine-related issues or performing maintenance on your 1990 Toyota Corolla. If you're unsure of the exact location, consult your vehicle's service manual or a professional mechanic for guidance.

How to reset ECU on Toyota Corolla?


Resetting a Toyota ECU involves disconnecting the battery, waiting for the residual power to drain, reconnecting the battery, and restarting to test. This process is great to know as it can help clear minor glitches and restore your vehicle's prior performance, especially if you've tried to remap your ECU at home.



Where is the ECU located in Toyota?


Depending on the Toyota model, the engine control module is typically located under the hood near the firewall or inside the cabin. Consult your vehicle's user manual or repair guide to determine the exact location. In most cases, it will be housed in a protective casing.



Where is the ECU unit located?


The engine control unit (ECU) location varies by vehicle, but it is most often found in the engine compartment near the battery or firewall, or inside the cabin under the dashboard, behind the glove box, or near the center console. To find the exact location for your specific car, it is best to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or to follow the main electrical harness from the engine.
 
This video explains the common locations of the ECM/ECU in a car: 56sCar Computer ExchangeYouTube · Feb 22, 2021
Common locations

  • Engine compartment: Frequently found near the battery, the firewall, or mounted on the side of the engine bay. 
  • Inside the cabin: Common locations include under the dashboard (especially on the driver's side), behind the glove box, or near the center console. 
  • Other areas: Some vehicles may have the ECU under the passenger floorboard or behind kick panels. 

You can watch this video to see the ECU location in a Chevy vehicle: 1mAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Feb 22, 2020
How to identify the ECU
  • It will be a small, rectangular or box-like module with several large wiring connectors attached. 
  • You can also look for labels like "ECU," "ECM," or "PCM" (Powertrain Control Module). 

Tips for locating
  • Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable way to find the exact location for your car model. 
  • Follow the main wiring harness: If the manual isn't helpful, trace the thick bundle of wires leading from the engine. This will eventually lead to the control unit. 

This video shows how to replace a Toyota Tacoma ECU: 51sTimmy The ToolmanYouTube · Dec 16, 2018



How do I know if my Toyota ECM is bad?


Signs of Toyota ECU Problems
One of the first indicators of Toyota ECU problems is poor engine performance. If your vehicle experiences stalling, rough idling, or failure to start, it could point to an issue with the ECU.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.