Compare Ford Ka ECU repair quotes from specialist garages

Ford was the first carmaker to introduce a vehicle assembly line, speeding up the process of production and bringing cars to more people than ever before. The brand's motorsport credentials are equally impressive. In the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans race, Ford ended Ferrari's six-year winning streak, beating the likes of Porsche and Lamborghini to the title with an ever-popular GT40.

Jim Morrison, the lead singer of rock band The Doors, famously adored his 1967 Ford Shelby GT500, the only car he ever owned. It is a mystery to this day where the vehicle ended up after his death.

Find out the average price of a Ford service or MOT here, or read this guide to see how Ford's maintenance costs compare with Vauxhall and Volkswagen.

ECU stands for engine control unit, sometimes referred to as the engine control module (ECM). This component ensures your car's engine runs smoothly by, for example, determining the amount of fuel that goes into the cylinders. You can find out more about how it works here.

Signs of a faulty ECU include misfires, the check engine light, starting problems, and engine surges or lags. ECU testing and repairs can help you work out the cause of the problem, such as faulty wiring or a bad sensor.

ECU testing uses a diagnostic tool known as an OBD scanner, which extracts information from the car's computer and allows the technician to check fault codes.

Can an ECU be repaired? Most of the time, the answer is yes; the ECU can be reprogrammed or repaired. The same applies to water damaged ECUs, as long as the damage is minimal. Some technicians may offer mobile ECU repairs at a location that's convenient for you.