I have a 09 Mazda 5 with a bad TCM now this is my personal car and the cost of a new one is $670. I have two questions
1) Does a new TCM from the dealership have to be programmed
2) If I get a used one are they interchangeable

 

According to Mazda they need to be programmed to the vehicle. If you get a 2nd hand unit it needs to be the same part number.

 

I think if you look in your area also a few places in the US that can sell a *rebuilt (*health checked and flashed for your VIN)TCM that will be plug-n-play? I can say 100% but I would at least look.

I do pass through service which is a PCM/ECU/TCM etc.... to the VIN if I have the program for the specific model? I am not at the shop so I can't tell you about your exact car today? But it is also another alternative then the dealer for a re-flash or ECU update that you can see if any shops in your city offer it?

 

Do you know if part number AJ58-18881-L will work in an 03 mazda 6s (3.0L, auto, 4 dr), original part is AJ58-18881-G which has developed the won't crank at 45 degrees or below.

 

The "L" is the supersession, A to B to C to D etc etc

 

Looks like it should work then. Thanks for your help.

 

I bought a TCM from myairbags.com for my mazda5 for $200. I was doubtful and not even 100% sure that the module was the cause of the very hard shifting and dash warning ligh. That was over a year ago and with the new TCM the car runs great. Highly recommended.