So, I'll start off by saying this is my first post, so hi everybody! I apologise if this is in the wrong place, I just wanted to outline my experiences with the TIPM, as they varied greatly from everything I read.
For months I dealt with issues on my '09 KK (coolant gauge malfunctioning, power locks not working, and finally the washer pump not running), and can confirm that a TIPM swap fixed it (still unsure about the gauge, it was intermittent). I was quoted $800 for a new one, plus programming cost. I was told by the dealership that they could program a used one, but if it failed prematurely I'd be out the programming cost (an amount that they couldn't tell me). I read online (
http://www.verticalvisions.com/TIPM_used.php ) that I could put in an identical unit (numeric portion of the model) and program it myself.
Quote:
-Reconnect all cable harness connectors to the bottom of the TIPM. Connectors are color coded. Secure each connector with the integrated locking clips.
-Move the TIPM downward until the plastic clips on the front and back are secured to the vehicle.
-Reconnect the positive (red) battery connection to the threaded stud located in the upper left corner of your TIPM. Tighten the hex bolt.
-Reconnect the negative cable to the battery negative (-) post.
-Insert your key into the vehicle ignition and turn it to the RUN position for 12 seconds. Do NOT start the vehicle. The TIPM will then obtain the necessary vehicle configuration and VIN data from the CCN and PCM.
-Turn your key to the off position.
-Attempt to start the vehicle.
Off to the junkyard. Of course, the KK not being very common around here, the exact same model was out, but I figured if I could at least get it into accessory with a used TIPM from something else, I might be able to confirm the source of my problems. I pulled the TIPM from a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan (appears identical in layout, however I did this standing in a foot of snow, so I haven't looked too closely at the legend inside the lid, just snapped on my old one). I followed the installation steps linked above, and everything worked. Power locks, wipers, I even double checked 4wd, including 4LO, and I didn't lose any features in the process. Total cost of a TIPM replacement, $27.01 CAD, and 30 minutes of my time (part-picking included).
Only drawbacks I have noticed so far are that all "key dance" settings that had been changed (honk on unlock, unlock driver door first, etc) were taken from the donor vehicle, and that my headlights no longer go off when I lock the doors with the fob (I'm assuming this was changed with the EVIC, which I don't have, help would be appreciated here.
For reference, the TIPM models were as follows:
09 KK: 04692300AB
08 Grand Caravan: 56049720AR