An original ECU will have a Bosch label on it that is either brown or a
yellowish tan color.  A brand new ECU (within the last five years), will
have a grey Bosch label.  That should settle it for you.  They all look
new because they are crammed inside a box under the back seat.  I have
rebuilt 2.1l ECUs for $250 if anyone needs one.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Barrett Willet wrote:

> Pulled my ECU today to find it looks brand spanking new.  Barely any
> dust and the labels look brand new.
> Are ECU's marked with any kind of manufacturing date?  I would like to
> find out if it has been replaced by the PO or original issue.
> Is this condition common in a 17 year old vanagon?
>
> Thanks
> Barrett
> '88 Wolfsburg...still not running
>