Restore Peak Performance to Your Vehicle
Is your Buick Lucerne or other GM vehicle suffering from a persistent Check Engine Light, rough idling, stalling, or poor fuel economy? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the computer that acts as your vehicle’s brain. A faulty ECM can cause a cascade of frustrating issues, from failed emissions tests to unpredictable no-start conditions. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component for your car’s reliability and safety. This replacement ECM, part number 12607096, is the definitive solution to restore your engine’s proper function and get you back on the road with confidence.
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing ECM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. The key is a correct diagnosis and a quality replacement. What sets this module apart is our commitment to a seamless repair. We flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically programmed to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This means no expensive trip to the dealership for programming—it arrives at your door ready for installation. This is the most direct and cost-effective way to fix complex electronic issues and ensure your vehicle runs as the manufacturer intended.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom No-Start
I remember a 2008 Chevy Impala 5.3L that came into the shop on a tow truck. The customer said it would randomly refuse to start, but after sitting for an hour, it would fire right up. There were no consistent trouble codes, just an intermittent U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM). We checked grounds, wiring harnesses, and power feeds—all solid. On a hunch, we monitored the ECM’s internal temperature data. We discovered that after about 20 minutes of running, the processor was overheating, causing it to shut down communication. Swapping in a quality, correctly programmed ECM like this one solved the issue permanently. It’s often not the obvious failure, but a subtle internal fault that a new module corrects.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or U0100 (Lost Communication).
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough or erratic engine idling.
- ✔ Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts harshly or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. For the 2006 Buick Lucerne, the ECM is typically located under the hood, inside the lower part of the air cleaner box assembly, making it accessible.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the Lucerne, you will need to access the air cleaner housing. The ECM is often secured to the bottom portion of this housing.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old ECM. Be gentle, as these plastic clips can become brittle over time.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in place and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new module until they click. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security or throttle body relearn procedure may be required. This can often be done without special tools by following a specific sequence of key cycles. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 seconds before starting to allow the systems to sync.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, service number 12607096, is a direct replacement for a vast range of General Motors vehicles, making it one of the most versatile modules. It is also interchangeable with part numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12630457, and 19210737. While it fits the 2006 Buick Lucerne 4.6L, it also fits many other models. Key examples include:
- ✔ 2006-2008 Buick Lucerne (4.6L)
- ✔ 2007-2008 Chevy Trailblazer (5.3L, 6.0L) & 2008-2009 (4.2L)
- ✔ 2006 Chevy Impala / Monte Carlo (3.5L, 3.9L)
- ✔ 2006-2009 Pontiac G6 (3.6L)
- ✔ 2007-2008 GMC Envoy (5.3L) & 2008-2009 (4.2L)
- ✔ 2006-2009 Cadillac DTS / STS / XLR
- ✔ 2007-2008 Saturn Outlook / GMC Acadia
- …and many more. Please review the full fitment list to confirm for your specific vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your order until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the module to work in your car.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes! Because we program the module to your specific VIN before shipping, it is designed to be a plug-and-play installation. In most cases, no further programming is needed. Some vehicles may require a simple key-cycle security relearn, which does not require special tools.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This ECM is a direct solution for failures related to the module itself, indicated by codes like P0601 or symptoms like a no-start condition with no other cause. While it solves the vast majority of electronic engine issues, always ensure you’ve ruled out bad sensors or wiring problems for a complete diagnosis.
What if my original part number is different?
This module is a direct replacement for several service numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list and your original part is one of the interchangeable numbers, this module will work perfectly.
Do I need to return my old ECM?
No core charge is required for this purchase. You can keep or responsibly recycle your old module without needing to send it back to us.