Software identification can change after a legitimate update while hardware identification remains associated with the installed unit. A different version string is not, by itself, evidence that the wrong ECU was returned.
Keep before-and-after records
Retain labels, update reports and the reason for programming. Ask the repairer which identifiers should change and what compatibility was checked. Do not compare a hardware label directly with a software field as though they were the same value.
If the vehicle develops a new symptom, report it with both records. A specialist should establish whether the observed identity is expected and whether the update completed correctly. Accurate records prevent a normal identification change from obscuring a genuine installation or operating problem.
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