Restore Peak Performance to Your 2006 Chevrolet Impala
Is your 2006 Impala suffering from a persistent check engine light, erratic idling, stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the central computer of your vehicle. A faulty ECM can cripple your car’s performance, fuel economy, and reliability. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that needs a definitive solution. This replacement ECM, part number 19210737, is the reliable, cost-effective fix you’ve been looking for, delivered directly to you and ready for installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall Case
I remember a 2006 Impala 3.5L that came into my bay with a problem that was driving the owner crazy. It would run perfectly for days, then suddenly stall at a stoplight. No warning, no sputtering, just a clean shutdown. The check engine light was on with a P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault) code, but it was intermittent. We checked grounds, wiring, and power feeds—all solid. After swapping in a known-good, VIN-programmed ECM like this one, the problem vanished completely. The original module’s internal processor was failing under specific thermal conditions, a common issue I’ve seen hundreds of times. This highlights why replacing the module is often the only permanent fix.
Is Your Impala Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM is the likely culprit:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Stalling or cutting out while driving
- ✔ Rough or inconsistent engine idle
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start, but the battery and starter are good
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test
- ✔ Communication error codes like U0100
- ✔ Internal module failure codes such as P0601, P0602, or P0606
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of this module is that it arrives programmed to your vehicle’s VIN, making the installation process simple for a DIYer or a professional mechanic. For a 2006 Impala, the process is quite accessible.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Impala, the ECM is conveniently located in the lower part of the air cleaner box assembly in the engine bay.
- Remove the Air Cleaner Box: You will need to unclip and remove the top of the air cleaner housing to access the module.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old ECM. Press the release tabs firmly. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Seat the new ECM into the bracket, bolt it down securely, and firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses. You should hear a click as they lock in place.
- Reassemble and Reconnect: Put the air cleaner box back together and reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: In many cases, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done without special tools. This procedure pairs the new ECM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Instructions are readily available online or in service manuals.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles and is interchangeable with several service numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, and more. While it fits many models, confirming with your specific vehicle’s year, model, and engine is crucial. Providing your VIN at checkout guarantees we send you a module with the correct software for your exact configuration.
Do I need to do any programming after I receive it?
Do I need to do any programming after I receive it?
No. We flash the module with the latest GM software updates using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives ready to be installed. The only additional step may be a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself.
How do I provide my VIN?
Do I need to do any programming after I receive it?
No. We flash the module with the latest GM software updates using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives ready to be installed. The only additional step may be a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself.
What’s the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
Do I need to do any programming after I receive it?
No. We flash the module with the latest GM software updates using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives ready to be installed. The only additional step may be a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
Do I need to do any programming after I receive it?
No. We flash the module with the latest GM software updates using the VIN you provide. This means it arrives ready to be installed. The only additional step may be a simple security relearn procedure that you can do yourself.