Restore Peak Performance to Your Vehicle’s Engine
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, poor fuel economy, intermittent stalling, or a no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can create a cascade of baffling problems. It’s the brain of your engine, and when it’s not communicating correctly, nothing else works as it should. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect your vehicle’s safety and reliability.
This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12602044, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running right again. Forget the hassle and high cost of a dealership visit. We take the complexity out of the repair by programming this module specifically to your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it even leaves our facility. This means it arrives loaded with the latest GM factory software updates, ensuring optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. It’s a direct-fit, plug-and-play solution designed to restore the precise engine management your vehicle had when it was new.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2006 Chevy HHR with the 2.4L engine. The complaint was intermittent stalling at stoplights and a persistent P0601 code (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). We checked all the wiring and grounds—everything looked solid. The symptoms pointed directly to an internal ECM failure. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new unit and programming, we sourced this exact part. After we received the customer’s VIN, we programmed the module and shipped it. The customer, a confident DIYer, installed it in his driveway in under 30 minutes. The P0601 code was gone, the stalling stopped, and the HHR ran smoothly. This is the kind of straightforward, effective repair we aim to provide.
Is Your Vehicle Experiencing These Issues?
A failing ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it might be time for a replacement. These are common symptoms I’ve diagnosed in my shop that were traced back to the engine computer.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or U0100
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel mileage
- ✔ Rough idling or stalling
- ✔ Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting erratically
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the key benefits of our pre-programmed module is the ease of installation. While specific locations vary by model, the general process is very accessible for a DIY mechanic. For the 2006 HHR, you’ll find it in the left rear of the engine compartment.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: Find the existing Engine Control Module on your vehicle. It’s a metal box with large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed ECM into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module. Reconnect your vehicle’s battery.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security or crank relearn procedure may be required, which can be done with many common scan tools. Start the vehicle and check for proper operation.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM is a direct replacement for service number 12602044 and is also interchangeable with part numbers 12590032, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. It fits a wide range of GM, Isuzu, and Saab vehicles. Please verify your specific model and options below.
COLORADO 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
ENVOY 07-08 Electronic Control Module; 5.3L (LH engine)
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12607096
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 19210737
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
XLR 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), ID 12607096
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.4L, w/hybrid
DTS 06 Electronic Control Module
DEVILLE 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 12590032
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12605843
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
LACROSSE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L
STS 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12636660
UPLANDER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L)
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 19210737
SAAB 9-7X 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 8 cylinder
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 12607096
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
RAINIER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 12607096
CTS 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), V-Series, ID 12603530
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.6L
G6 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12603530
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L
ION 06 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L (opt LE5)
MALIBU 06 Electronic Control Module; 3.9L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 2.4L, w/hybrid
RELAY 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, VIN Z (8th digit, opt LAT)
OUTLOOK 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud)
SOLSTICE 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front frame rail)
VUE 08 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
VUE 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 7 (8th digit, opt LY7)
ACADIA 07-08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 12607096 (ECM)
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.6L
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 19210737
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12603530
GRAND PRIX 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner box), 5.3L
HHR 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 2.4L
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12590032
ISUZU I-290 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
LUCERNE 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L
MALIBU 09-10 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, w/hybrid
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 19210737
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
MONTANA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (SV6), 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 19210737
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12636660
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12602044
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12607096
TRAILBLAZER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
CANYON 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
COBALT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L (VIN B, 8th digit, 4-146)
ISUZU I-370 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
MALIBU 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
SRX 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (4.6L)
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 12607096
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12607096
IMPALA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 5.3L
XLR 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.4L
XLR 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12607096
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12618163
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 19210737
MONTANA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
PURSUIT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L
VUE 10 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
ACADIA 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737 (PCM)
DTS 08 Electronic Control Module
TERRAZA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
HUMMER H3 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.6L
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 12607096
UPLANDER 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIN programming and why is it important?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific information and the latest GM software onto the ECM. This ensures the module communicates perfectly with your car’s engine, transmission, and security systems. It eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming after installation.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. You can typically add it as a note during checkout or send it to us in a message referencing your order number. We cannot ship the module until we receive your VIN.
Do I need to do anything special after installing this module?
For most vehicles, this is a plug-and-play part. However, some GM vehicles may require a security relearn or crankshaft position sensor relearn procedure. This can often be performed with a capable bi-directional scan tool and is a standard procedure for most mechanics.
My old module has a different part number. Will this still work?
Yes, as long as your original part number is one of the interchangeable service numbers listed (12590032, 12603530, 12605843, etc.), this module is a correct replacement. Manufacturers often consolidate multiple part numbers into one updated service number.
Is this a reliable part?
Absolutely. We only source high-quality, tested modules. Combined with the fresh programming using the latest GM software, this provides a dependable, long-term solution to your vehicle’s issues.