Restore Your Pontiac Montana’s Performance and Reliability
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand the headaches a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can cause. Your 2006 Pontiac Montana might be experiencing frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, sudden stalling, rough idling, or a complete no-start condition. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re signs that the central computer of your engine is malfunctioning. This isn’t a part you can afford to ignore, as it governs everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifting and emissions control.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the hassle and high cost of dealership visits out of the equation. Each module, including this 2006 Montana Engine Control Module, is professionally programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your vehicle’s other modules, restoring its original performance and efficiency without the need for an expensive programming tool or a trip to the service center.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall Case
I remember a 2006 Montana SV6 that came into the shop a while back. The owner was at his wit’s end. He’d replaced the fuel pump and a couple of sensors, but the van would still intermittently stall at stoplights. No consistent codes, just pure frustration. After hooking up my scope and monitoring the ECM’s 5-volt reference signal, I saw it dropping out randomly. The ECM’s internal voltage regulator was failing under heat soak. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the problem was solved for good. It’s a classic example of how a faulty ECM can mimic other component failures, making accurate diagnosis key.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These ECM Failure Signs?
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear.
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving.
- ✔ No-start or hard-starting conditions, especially when warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough or erratic engine idle.
- ✔ Poor acceleration or loss of power.
- ✔ Communication error codes, such as U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM/PCM).
- ✔ Internal module failure codes, like P0601, P0603, or P0606.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 2006 Montana Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. For your specific model, the ECM is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) engine compartment. Always consult a service manual for the exact location if you’re unsure.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate and Access: Identify the ECM in the engine bay. You may need to remove a cover or other components to gain clear access to the module and its electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the ECM. Never force them. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you’ll need it for the new module.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your vehicle’s negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In many cases, a security relearn procedure may be required for the vehicle to start. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle is then ready to go.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. It fits a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and options below. Providing your VIN at checkout is the best way to guarantee a perfect match.
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
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the ECM with the exact software and calibrations for your specific vehicle. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and options package, making the installation process plug-and-play.
Is this part difficult to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable repair. It involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging a few connectors, and unbolting the old module. Our installation guide above provides the key steps. No special programming tools are needed on your end.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM (common codes P0601-P0606 or U0100), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, you should always ensure other potential problems have been properly diagnosed and ruled out.
What happens after I install it?
After installation and reconnecting the battery, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure as outlined in our guide. Once complete, your vehicle should start and run smoothly with its performance and fuel economy restored.
Is this compatible with other GM vehicles?
Yes, this ECM (and its interchangeable service numbers) fits a very wide range of GM cars, trucks, and SUVs. Please check the detailed fitment list on this page to confirm compatibility with your specific year, make, and model.