Restore Peak Performance to Your Pontiac Solstice
Is your 2006 Pontiac Solstice suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, rough idling, stalling, or a complete no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the central computer that governs your engine’s performance. When it falters, the entire driving experience is compromised. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can affect fuel economy, emissions, and overall vehicle safety. We offer a dependable and straightforward solution: a professionally prepared 2006 Solstice Engine Control Module, ready for installation right out of the box.
Forget the hassle and high costs of dealership programming. We simplify the process by programming this module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures all factory settings and the latest GM software updates are loaded, restoring the precise control your engine needs. It’s the most effective way to get your Solstice back on the road, running as it should.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2006 Solstice that came into my shop with a maddeningly intermittent no-start problem. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked the starter. All the basic checks passed, but every few days, the car would refuse to crank. After hours of tracing wires, we hooked up an advanced diagnostic tool and monitored the data stream from the ECM during a failed start attempt. We saw the voltage to a critical injector driver circuit inside the ECM drop to zero. The module’s internal hardware was failing under certain temperature conditions. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed unit like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a perfect example of how a failing computer can mimic mechanical issues.
Is Your Solstice Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty engine computer is a likely culprit. Pro-tip: a professional scan tool might show codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606, which point directly to an internal module fault.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with no clear cause
- ✔ Engine cranks but refuses to start
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel mileage
- ✔ Stalling or hesitation during acceleration
- ✔ Rough or erratic idle
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2006 Solstice Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Taking your time and following these steps will ensure a smooth replacement.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Pontiac Solstice, the Engine Control Module is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s side) front frame rail in the engine bay.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the connectors for any signs of corrosion or damage and clean them if necessary.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. There may be a few bolts or nuts holding it in place.
- 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 harness connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary, which can often be done without special tools (consult your owner’s manual or a reliable online resource for the specific procedure). Start the vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes to allow the systems to sync.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
While this is a perfect fit for the specified model, this versatile ECM (service no. 12602044) is also compatible with a wide range of other GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle in the list below to ensure perfect fitment. This unit is interchangeable with service numbers: 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, 19210737.
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
Do I need to program this module?
No. This is the biggest benefit of our service. We pre-program the module using your vehicle’s VIN before shipping it to you. It arrives ready to install, with the latest GM software updates included.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a placard on the driver’s side of the dashboard visible through the windshield.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM (common codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. However, you should always have the codes read to ensure the ECM is the root cause, as other sensor failures can also trigger the light.
Is this a difficult part to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, this is a very manageable job. It primarily involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging connectors, and swapping the module. No special programming tools are required on your end.
What is the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) and PCM (Powertrain Control Module) both refer to the main engine computer. A PCM also controls the transmission, but in many vehicles like the Solstice, the function is integrated into one unit often just called the ECM.