Time for an update and another question!
So I took our Libby to the dealership, they diagnosed the problem as a faulty PCM, since they said when the problem is happening they can't talk to it at all, it's like the car doesn't even exist as far as their computers are concerned. Quoted price for a new PCM installed is $1880
And they can't even guarantee that it will fix the problem, it's just the first recommended step.
I wasn't willing to pay that much on a vehicle that I'm essentially fixing in order to sell at this point, so I experimented with purchasing a salvage PCM off eBay, from the same year and model Jeep. When I plugged in the replacement PCM, the Jeep starts promptly, then dies after 5 seconds, presumably due to security code mismatch.
I took it to the Jeep dealership hoping to get it recoded to my VIN, which they said they would do for $130 (1 hour shop rate), with me doing the labor to swap the PCMs to get it ready. But when I got the salvage PCM in the vehicle, their computer refused to recognize the VIN on it and talk to it, so they couldn't update it! The mechanic said it's a security thing on the 'newer' wireless units, so I can't even flash it, apparently it must be either an empty PCM or one pre-coded with the VIN.
Here's the question. I know there are many shops online that claim to sell pre-coded, plug and play PCMs, or even support PCM repair by mail.
I figure this is probably the next thing to try. Does anyone have any recommendations for a reputable shop that handles the CRD PCMs?
Thanks.