2007 BMW 335XI - ECU Question
 

Hey, quick Q for the modern-ish Beemer guys

My friend is trying to get her 2007 BMW 335XI running. A previous "mechanic" really screwed the car up, stole her ECU and other stuff, then absconded. She bought a used ECU thinking it could be reprogrammed but her current mechanic says that is not possible, the car needs either the original ECU or a new one programmed by the dealer - and that is a $2,000 item for a car worth maybe $4000 so . . .

Does this make sense?

Yep.

The ecu should be married to the immobilizer, so even with a good used ecu, it won't start.

Is it a used ECU for a 2007 335xi? If it is for the correct car a local BMW indy or a tuning shop should be able to plug in and sort that out.

It is indeed a used ECU for 2007 335xi

I’m thinking maybe you need BMW-specific software and her current mechanic, who is just a local guy with no BMW specialization, doesn’t have it.

Yes, I don't know what the BMW coding tool is called.. In the Porsche World, You need the PIWIS, and beside getting an ECU that closely matches the car, you need to get a learn code from a dealer, this is besides VIN etc.. I would get in touch with someone like ECU Doctors.. and see if they are able to help... Even a 17 year old ECU is not a plug and play..

ECU Doctors

https://the-ecu-pro.com/vehicle/2007-bmw-335i

GL.

I use Bavarian Technic for my 2007 328i

https://www.bavariantechnic.com/

They may be able to help

If the car is in the Portland area, give these guys a call.

https://www.munichmotorworks.com/

The owner, Joseph is a pretty stand up guy.

I used to use INPA for my 2001 bmw, but I don't know if it works with a 2007.

I belong to an Autel forum , and I have seen , where people have indeed replaced, and reprogrammed used ECM's and Modules with their MAXI Sys, on BMW cars
The factory software/system for BMW is called ISTA P. It may , or may not program used ECM's, but there are guys out there smart enough to do it with aftermarket scanners
I have the equipment to do it, but have never tried a used ECM on a bimmer. I have pulled it off on a GM truck, and a Honda before . This is definitely not my wheelhouse, but I usually muddle my way through it when I have to .
Good luck

I was wondering if INPA would work on a 2007. It is strongly encouraged to use by those on E46 Fanatics. It does a lot of diagnostic, settings, etc.

Do a search on Bimmerforms, etc.