Restore Your Saturn Relay’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2006 Saturn Relay giving you headaches with a persistent check engine light, unexpected stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. A faulty ECM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery and ignition timing to transmission shifting, making your van unreliable and unsafe. Don’t let a bad computer keep you off the road. This replacement ECM is the dependable, straightforward solution you need.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Unlike a generic part from a local store, this module comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest GM-certified software updates before it even ships. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s a true plug-and-play solution designed to get your vehicle running smoothly right out of the box. This is the same process we’ve used in our shop for years to ensure a successful, one-time fix for our customers.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2006 Saturn Relay that came into the bay with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights. The owner had already replaced the battery and cleaned the throttle body, but the problem persisted. No hard fault codes were stored, just a history of communication loss codes (U-codes) with the TCM. After running diagnostics, we found the ECM’s 5-volt reference signal would occasionally drop out when the module got hot. This is a common internal failure. We installed one of our VIN-programmed ECMs, performed a quick crankshaft position sensor relearn, and the van ran perfectly. The customer was thrilled to have a reliable vehicle again without the massive dealership bill.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing ECM can cause a wide range of confusing symptoms. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine computer is a likely culprit:
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- âś” Vehicle refuses to start or cranks but won’t fire up.
- âś” Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or idling.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- âś” Rough or erratic engine performance and misfires.
- âś” Transmission shifting problems or getting stuck in gear.
- âś” Communication errors with other vehicle modules (U-codes).
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Saturn Relay is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Follow these steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Relay, the Engine Control Module is typically found in the LH (driver’s side) engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect the wiring harness connectors from the old ECM. Never force them. Inspect the terminals 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: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click firmly into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security or crankshaft position sensor (CASE) relearn procedure may be required. This can often be done with a capable scan tool or by following a specific vehicle procedure. Start the engine and check for proper operation.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12603530, is a direct replacement for the 2006 Saturn Relay with the 3.9L engine. However, its versatile design makes it interchangeable with numerous other GM vehicles. It is compatible with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please see the extensive list below to confirm fitment for other models. Matching your original part number or verifying by make/model/engine is the best way to ensure you get the correct part.
Do I need to have this ECM programmed by a dealer?
Do I need to have this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the module for you before we ship it. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, and we will flash the ECM with the latest GM software specific to your vehicle, making it ready for installation.
What is a VIN and why do you need it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your specific car. It contains critical information about the engine, transmission, and factory-installed options. We use the VIN to load the exact correct software for your vehicle’s configuration, ensuring perfect compatibility.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM (with codes like P0601, P0602, P0606), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, if the light is on for another reason, such as a bad oxygen sensor or catalytic converter, you will still need to address that separate problem.
Is any additional relearn procedure needed after installation?
In many GM vehicles, a Crankshaft Position System Variation (CASE) relearn and/or a security relearn procedure may be necessary after the ECM is replaced. This syncs the new ECM with the engine’s sensors and security system. These procedures can often be completed with a bi-directional scan tool.
Which part numbers does this module replace?
This ECM is a direct replacement for service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737.