Signs of a bad ecu

[llwsmcms20]

What are the major signs of a failing ECU? I think mine may be bad, but unsure. And if it is bad, would i be able to find a compatible ECU and just use it for my car?

[swagger rob]

there are different signs for different problems. I've heard of people having low fuel pressure, no starts, voltage present at the ECU but still doesn't turn on, sometimes no connectivity between ECU and vagcom, etc...just depends. but those are a few.