Professional DAF XF 106 engine control unit repair
Engine computer - Delphi Paccar ETC-3 PCI
Engine control unit, engine ECU, engine computer, engine module or PCI module are all names for the same device, the one that controls how the engine runs.
The engine computer made by Delphi is fitted in the DAF XF 106 truck. This electronic control unit manages the diesel engine that powers this popular tractor unit.
These units suffer from a factory design defect that causes the whole engine control module to fail. Because of the way the Delphi ETC-3 computer is manufactured, it is practically impossible to take apart, and the manufacturer does not provide for repairing a damaged engine control unit.
The failure often immobilises the vehicle when it is least expected.
Delphi engine ECU fault symptoms
What does a typical DAF XF 106 engine control unit fault look like?
A faulty engine ECU shows up as various fault messages on the instrument cluster display. Many units store fault codes that relate mainly to CAN bus failures.
Each time the engine ECU fault occurs it can take the vehicle out of service. The engine cuts out unexpectedly while running and usually will not restart.
Sometimes the engine can be restarted after a shorter or longer stop, but the problem comes back and immobilises the tractor unit again.
Typical symptoms of a faulty Delphi Paccar ETC-3 control unit
- The engine will not start.
- The engine starts only occasionally.
- The engine computer reports communication errors.
- No communication with the engine control unit.
- The engine starts but cuts out after a while.
- The vehicle's control units report communication and CAN bus errors.
- No engine temperature or AdBlue level readings on the instrument cluster.
Buy a replacement control unit or repair the damaged PCI?
Buying a used control unit is a risk, because a used unit:
- Comes with no warranty.
- May turn out to be faulty.
- Costs more than a repair.
- Still has the factory defect.
- Has to be programmed to the vehicle.
What about buying a new control unit from an authorised DAF dealer?
- The cost is far higher than a repair.
- The factory defect is still there.
- It can only be programmed to the vehicle at an authorised dealer.
- The exchange scheme requires you to return the damaged unit.
It is cheaper and faster to bring the control unit to us for repair. You avoid the high cost of downtime, towing and roadside service.
Chip tuning and software modifications for the DAF XF
More power for the DAF XF engine
We also carry out professional software modifications to DAF XF engine control units. Every modification keeps the engine within its correct operating parameters, with the focus on safety, reliability and proper engine operation.
We work on pre-facelift versions (DAF XF 106 460 and 510 hp) and facelift versions 480-530 hp, the ones with locked engine control units.
The result is higher power and torque, better engine flexibility and lower fuel consumption. We choose the parameters with the safety of the engine in mind.
More power
More power and torque. The engine responds better to the throttle and has more in reserve under load.
Lower fuel consumption
A map set up for economical driving. Lower fuel consumption on the road with torque maintained.
Exhaust system
SCR off, DPF, AdBlue and NOx. Typical exhaust system modifications for diesel engines in trucks.
Power options: DAF XF 106 pre-facelift versions
DAF XF 460
Stock: 461 hp / 2300 NmDAF XF 510
Stock: 511 hp / 2500 NmPower options: facelift versions 480-530 hp (locked control units)
DAF XF 480
Stock: 481 hp / 2100 NmDAF XF 530
Stock: 530 hp / 2350 Nm* Estimated values.
We have no trouble handling facelift 480-530 hp versions with locked ECU readout. The modification is done in our workshop and we keep a backup of the factory software. Standard turnaround is around 2-3 hours, after which the vehicle is ready to go back to work.
Preventive repair and control unit reinforcement
Prevent the failure before it immobilises the vehicle
The Delphi ETC-3 control unit fails because of a recurring factory defect. There is no need to wait until the engine cuts out on the road. A unit that is still working can be reinforced in advance.
During the overhaul we remove the cause of the fault and protect the critical area so that the typical failure does not happen again. Once the work is finished, the control unit is fully ready for service.
What we do
Overhaul and reinforcement of the control unit.
Correction of the Delphi ETC-3 factory defect.
Protection against the typical fault.
Inspection of the unit before it is returned.
Why us?
A little about us
We have been repairing automotive electronics for many years. We specialise in engine control unit repairs.
We have successfully repaired many engine computers from DAF and other makes. We know the design of the Delphi control unit fitted in DAF XF 106 Euro 6 trucks inside out.
We use a reliable, proven method to repair this fault. We have a dedicated platform for diagnosing these control unit models along with the technical documentation. We repair the electronics using original parts and give a warranty on the repair.
How to ship it? Where to bring it?
Bring or send us your damaged DAF engine control unit
Call us first so we can agree the details and get the repair done as quickly as possible. The repair of a damaged control unit itself takes around two hours.
By prior arrangement you can bring the control unit to our workshop for repair while you wait. After the repair the computer is ready to be refitted so you can get back on the road.
You can also send it by courier or parcel locker. If the computer is sent to us by courier, we will do our best to ship the repaired unit back the same day.
We are one of the few who give a 100% certain diagnosis of the control unit fault, and we provide a one-year warranty on the repair.
Where exactly is the engine control unit fitted in the DAF XF 106?
The Delphi Paccar engine control unit is bolted directly to the engine, on its left side, which is the driver's side.
In the DAF XF 106 the engine computer sits just behind the alternator and below the Common Rail high-pressure fuel rail. To remove it and deliver it for repair, you need to tilt the cab, disconnect three multi-pin connectors and undo four mounting bolts.
Take care that the rubber bushes the control unit rests on do not fall out. Their job is to damp the vibration produced by the engine.
Emergency vehicle start despite the fault
There is a temporary workaround
We are always happy to advise our customers. In cases like this we can offer help and a few valuable tips to get the tractor unit and trailer back to base on its own wheels.
This avoids the cost of towing and roadside service.
