Question on BMW 3-Series E36 DME Repair

Hey Wayne, great write-up.

I recently got given a 1995 BMW 316 Compact. The problem is that it is only firing on 3 cylinders. I noticed the coil pack is cracked and bulging at #4. I got a 2nd hand pack and fitted it and within a few seconds it also cracked and began to melt at #4.
I checked Autodata and traced the supply fault to one of 4 transistors inside the ECU. My issue is that it has random ID numbers and no manufacturer identification. Any idea where I would be able to find an alternative replacement to fit or am I best going for an ECU?
If I just go ahead and get an ECU do I need to get the key, ignition, immo unit etc or can I get away with just the ECU as it is an early-ish model?
Thanks.

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: BMW DME Motronic ECU Swap / Repair

[Wayne 962]

It does sound like a troublesome ECU. If you have an immobilizer, then you need to have the immobilizer, key and ECU all matching. I'm not sure when the cutoff was though, and your 316 was never sold here in the states, so I'm not sure about that particular model either. You might be able to give your local BMW dealer a call with the VIN and ask them?

- Wayne