Restore Your Truck’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2004-2006 Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon running rough, throwing confusing check engine lights, or refusing to start? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit behind these frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. As the brain of your vehicle’s engine and transmission, a faulty PCM can cause a cascade of problems, from poor fuel economy and erratic shifting to a complete no-start condition. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that can leave you stranded. Stop guessing with temporary fixes and get the definitive solution.
This replacement module is the answer. We provide a high-quality PCM that is professionally programmed to your truck’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures seamless communication between all your vehicle’s systems, just like the original from the factory. We flash it with the latest, most stable GM software updates available, which often correct underlying factory bugs and improve overall performance and longevity. This is a direct-fit, plug-and-play solution designed to get you back on the road with confidence.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent No-Start Mystery
A customer brought in his ’05 Colorado with a problem that was driving him crazy. It would start and run perfectly for weeks, then suddenly refuse to start. No crank, no click, nothing. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the starter. In my shop, I’ve seen this exact scenario dozens of times on this platform. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. The module wasn’t failing completely but had an internal fault that would surface randomly, especially with temperature changes. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole at a dealership, we installed one of our VIN-programmed PCMs. The swap took less than 30 minutes. The truck fired up instantly, and the communication faults were gone for good. It’s a textbook example of how a failing 2004-2006 Colorado PCM can mimic other issues, and why a reliable, pre-programmed replacement is the most efficient repair.
Is Your Truck Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The transmission shifts harshly, late, or not at all.
- ✔ The engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires intermittently.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the scan tool.
- ✔ Other modules on the vehicle setting U-codes (loss of communication with PCM).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2004-2006 Colorado PCM is a simple process that most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Follow these steps for a smooth installation.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On the Colorado, Canyon, and H3, the PCM is typically located on the right-hand (passenger side) of the firewall in the engine bay. On Trailblazer/Envoy platforms, it’s on the left-hand (driver side) of the engine.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove the electrical wiring harnesses from the old PCM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click securely in place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Needed): In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This usually involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new PCM.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM trucks and SUVs. Please verify your vehicle is on this list. It is compatible with multiple original part numbers, including: 12569773, 12588650, 12589311, 12589585, 12591647, 12591648, 12593531, 12593532, 12594430, 12594431, 12596783, 12596784, 12597521, 12597776, 12597777, 12600818, 12604438, 12604439, and more.
- Chevrolet Colorado 2004-2006 (RH firewall)
- GMC Canyon 2004-2006 (RH firewall)
- Hummer H3 2006 (RH firewall)
- Isuzu I-280 / I-350 2006 (RH firewall)
- Buick Rainier 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Chevrolet Trailblazer / EXT 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- GMC Envoy / XL 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Isuzu Ascender 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Saab 9-7X 2006 (6 cylinder, LH engine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do after I purchase this PCM?
After you place your order, you must provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot program and ship the module without it. Simply reply to your order confirmation email with the VIN.
Is this truly a plug-and-play part?
Yes, it is programmed to your VIN to be plug-and-play. However, on most GM vehicles of this era, a security relearn procedure is required after installation for the vehicle to start. This procedure is simple and does not require special tools.
My original part number is not 12597521. Will this still work?
Yes. This PCM, when programmed correctly, replaces a long list of original GM part numbers. As long as your vehicle model and year are listed in our compatibility chart, this module is the correct replacement for you.
Will this fix my check engine light?
This module will correct any issues and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that are directly caused by a faulty PCM. It is essential to ensure your vehicle has been properly diagnosed, as other faulty sensors or wiring could also cause a check engine light.
Is the programming included in the price?
Absolutely. The price includes programming the module with the latest GM software updates specific to your vehicle’s VIN. There are no hidden fees.