If you’re dealing with baffling engine problems in your 2006 Cadillac STS, you know the frustration. Intermittent stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a car that refuses to start can sideline your vehicle and your life. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless drivers spend a fortune at the dealership for what is often a straightforward fix: a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to getting your vehicle’s performance and reliability back.
This isn’t just any replacement ECM. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the equation. Before this module ever leaves our facility, we program it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for installation, eliminating the need for costly programming services from a dealer or specialized shop. It’s the most efficient way to restore your engine’s brain to perfect working order.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2006 Cadillac STS 4.4L that came into my bay with a complaint that stumped two other shops. The car would randomly fail to start, but only when warm. It threw a mix of communication codes (U-codes) and a random misfire code. We checked wiring, sensors, and grounds for hours. Finally, we monitored the ECM’s internal temperature data. We discovered the processor was failing under heat soak, causing it to lose communication with the other modules. Swapping in a VIN-programmed 2006 STS Engine Control Module like this one solved the problem instantly. The customer was back on the road the same day, avoiding a massive dealership bill.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These ECM Failure Signs?
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- âś” Your engine cranks but refuses to start.
- âś” Unexplained drops in fuel economy and poor engine performance.
- âś” The engine stalls or runs rough intermittently.
- âś” Automatic transmission shifting feels harsh or erratic.
- âś” Loss of communication with other vehicle modules, often triggering various warning lights on the dash.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- âś” Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- âś” Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Cadillac STS, the Engine Control Module is typically located on the left-hand (driver’s side) frame rail in the engine compartment.
- âś” Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect the electrical wiring harnesses from the old ECM. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- âś” Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- âś” Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in place and securely fasten it.
- âś” Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module, ensuring they click securely into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Relearn (If Needed): In many cases, you may need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or anti-theft relearn). This procedure is simple, requires no special tools, and instructions are readily available online or in your owner’s manual.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please verify your part number and check the extensive fitment list below to ensure compatibility.
ACADIA 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737 (PCM)
ALLURE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.4L, w/hybrid
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.6L
CANYON 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
COBALT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L (VIN B, 8th digit, 4-146)
COLORADO 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
CTS 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), V-Series, ID 12603530
DEVILLE 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 12590032
DTS 06 Electronic Control Module
DTS 08 Electronic Control Module
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 12607096
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737
ENVOY 07-08 Electronic Control Module; 5.3L (LH engine)
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12607096
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 19210737
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12636660
ENVOY 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
G6 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12603530
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12590032
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12602044
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12603530
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12605843
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
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12607096
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 19210737
GRAND PRIX 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner box), 5.3L
HHR 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 2.4L
HUMMER H3 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
IMPALA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 5.3L
ION 06 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L (opt LE5)
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 12607096
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 19210737
ISUZU I-290 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
ISUZU I-370 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
LACROSSE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L
LUCERNE 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 12607096
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 19210737
MALIBU 06 Electronic Control Module; 3.9L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 2.4L, w/hybrid
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.6L
MALIBU 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
MALIBU 09-10 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, w/hybrid
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
MONTANA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (SV6), 3.9L
MONTANA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
OUTLOOK 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud)
PURSUIT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L
RAINIER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
RELAY 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
SAAB 9-7X 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 8 cylinder
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
SOLSTICE 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front frame rail)
SRX 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (4.6L)
STS 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.6L
TERRAZA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12607096
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12636660
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 19210737
TRAILBLAZER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
UPLANDER 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 12607096
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 19210737
UPLANDER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L)
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, VIN Z (8th digit, opt LAT)
VUE 08 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
VUE 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 7 (8th digit, opt LY7)
VUE 10 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
XLR 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.4L
XLR 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
XLR 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), ID 12607096
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming process work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you will provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We then use that information to load the correct, most up-to-date GM software for your specific vehicle onto the ECM. This ensures it communicates perfectly with your car’s systems right out of the box.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, for the most part. Because we program it to your VIN, it eliminates the most difficult step. However, on many GM vehicles, you may need to perform a simple, tool-free anti-theft security relearn procedure after installation, which typically takes about 30 minutes.
Do I need to send my old ECM (core) back?
This listing does not require you to return your old part. There is no core charge, which saves you the time and expense of a return shipment.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This ECM is a direct solution for failures within the module itself. While the symptoms we’ve listed are very common for a bad ECM, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the ECM is the root cause of your issue before ordering.