AlanJ

Long story short- tried to install Apple Carplay myself- fried my PCM 3.1. Looking to replace it. Dealer wanted to replace it with a new one but at $4k I'm trying to look into alternatives. There are used ones available, and I know the dealership has to recode it to the car, but the dealership had some doubt about being able to do that because it has to be "the exact right version of the PCM 3.1." Is this just stealership nonsense? Would a PCM 3.1 from a 2015 Carrera be able to be programmed to my 2012.5 Carrera? If my car was ordered with the Bose option, XM, and 6 CD changer, does the replacement PCM 3.1 have to have those exact options as well? Please help. THANK YOU!

AdamSanta85

I would give LA Dismantler a shot for a PCM.

https://www.ladismantler.com/

Wish I could help you with your PCM questions. What is the part number of your PCM?

koala

I don't see why a newer PCM 3x wouldn't work - BUT, those of us with earlier model cars (2012.5 and part-way through 2013 MY), do physically have a firmware limitation to our hardware revision of the PCM unit.

This one from a 2010 Panamera should work for sure: https://www.ebay.ca/itm/10-Panamera-...1/324204851323

Guards_Red_991

How did you fry it? Are you 100% is fried?

bb964

Go thru parts catalogs for various models with PCM 3.1 (911's, Panamera, SUV's) and see if the PCM part numbers differ

https://www.porsche.com/usa/accessor...artscatalogue/

AlanJ

Yes, sadly. I fried whatever portion of the motherboard controls the screen display. I mailed the PCM to Becker in NJ to fix it. They replaced the motherboard but the PCM came back wiped. Took it to the dealer to reinstall the software and now the car is convinced it's outside of Detroit and the GPS won't update. To make matters worse, somewhere along the way in shipping the volume **** broke and just spins without changing the volume.

AlanJ

I've learned that the Carrera/Boxster/Cayman PCM 3.1s have rounded top corners, while the Panamera/Macan/Cayenne have square corners. I don't think they'll fit correctly.

bleedingedge

The first time a GPS system is booted (Cold start) it can take several minutes until there is a position fix. The GPS chip needs to learn the so called almanach. Put it outside and let it sit there for 20 minutes with the PCM turned on and then see if you are still in Detroit. The volume **** afaik can be replaced.
If you drove home for some time from the dealer (unless downtown Manhattan) however that should have been enough. I would also check the GPS antenna plug is connected ok.

With the PCM3 there was a similar issue in case the wrong map data were installed. Check you are on the latest updates (firmware and map) for your hardware index. A dealer with a PIWIS tester also can see if there are any satellites in view at all.

koala

If the screen is functioning now, I think you're on the right track to salvaging it. You can wait it out like bleedingedge suggested, and you can also try driving your car in figure 8's as this motion will calibrate a GPS sensor.

The other consideration is that if you're moving to Apple CarPlay, does it really matter if the car GPS is defective? CarPlay is going to use your phone GPS anyway.

Stealth 993

You can also have your unit repaired.
https://www.beckerautosound.com

markoware

Another option if you haven't considered it is an aftermarket head unit. The interface needed for the Bose/Burm systems isn't cheap ($800), but you could swap in an aftermarket option that is a full touch screen with Carplay and just be done with the PCM.

CLeagones

HI...Just checking to see if you ever got a solution for your PCM. I think ive toasted mine as well.. Tried installing the joyeauto and now my PCM screen no longer works.

Porsche_nuts

double check ALL your connections.

Chris M.

What did you guys end up doing after frying the PCM? Used one or an aftermarket head unit?

jadski

I tried installing the isadur system in my 2015, macan turbo, and noticed a burning smell coming from the PCM and disconnected the power. When I opened it back up, the FPC cable, coming from my motherboard to the new isadur board was partially melted. My PCM now appears dead. Black screen, and no power. I checked the fuse in the luggage compartment and it’s still good. I removed all of the isadur components and put it back to stock and I still have a black screen. suggestions

I just ordered an eBay PCM 3.1 from a 2016 macan turbo. do you guys think it will work or will it have to be re-coded at my dealership? should I send my PCM to Becker or would you guys try a different aftermarket CarPlay head unit? Which one?