Restore Your Uplander’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2006 Chevrolet Uplander giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic transmission shifting, or a frustrating no-start condition can often point to one critical component: a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As the electronic brain of your vehicle, the PCM controls everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shift points. When it falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers. I’ve seen it countless times in my 20+ years in the shop—a perfectly sound engine crippled by faulty electronics.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We are providing a genuine GM service part, 12600928, which is the heart of your vehicle’s management system. The biggest hurdle in replacing a PCM has always been the expensive and time-consuming programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step entirely. Before this module ships, we will flash it with the latest, most stable GM software updates, precisely matched to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This ensures optimal performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, tailored specifically for your van.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2006 Pontiac G6 with the 3.5L engine, complaining of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a weird, delayed shift from 2nd to 3rd gear. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a generic U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM/PCM) that would pop up now and then. We checked wiring, grounds, and power feeds—all solid. On a hunch, I monitored the live data stream and noticed the PCM voltage would briefly dip just before a stall. After swapping in a known-good, programmed module, all the issues vanished. It was a classic case of internal PCM failure that didn’t throw a clear P0601 or P0606 code, making it a tricky one to pinpoint without experience. This is why a quality, correctly programmed module is non-negotiable.
Common Signs of a Failing PCM
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, a faulty PCM could be the culprit. A failing module can often store internal fault codes like P0601, P0602, or P0606, but symptoms can appear even without a specific code.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light that won’t clear
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or misfiring
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start for no apparent reason
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions test
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your new 2006 Uplander PCM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The programming is already done, so you just need basic hand tools. This process is often referred to as a ‘CASE Relearn’ or ‘Crankshaft Variation Relearn’ and may be required for optimal performance.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- Locate the Module: On most of these GM vehicles, the PCM is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment, often near the air filter housing.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old module to its bracket. Note the orientation before removing it.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in the same location and orientation. Secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new PCM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: A security relearn procedure is often necessary. A common method is the 10-minute/30-minute key-on procedure. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting) for 10 minutes, then off for 10 seconds. Repeat this two more times for a total of 30 minutes. The vehicle should then start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, service part number 12600928 (interchangeable with 19210070), is a direct-fit replacement for the following vehicles. Please verify your vehicle and engine options below. After purchase, you MUST provide your VIN for programming.
- ✔ 2006 Chevrolet Equinox (Electronic Control Module; LH front engine compartment)
- ✔ 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (Electronic Control Module; 3.5L)
- ✔ 2006 Chevrolet Uplander (Electronic Control Module; LH engine compartment, 3.5L)
- ✔ 2006 Pontiac G6 (Electronic Control Module; LH front engine compartment, ID 12600928)
- ✔ 2006 Pontiac Torrent (Electronic Control Module; LH engine compartment)
- ✔ 2006-2007 Buick Rendezvous (Electronic Control Module; 3.5L)
- ✔ 2006 Saturn Relay (Electronic Control Module; LH engine compartment, 3.5L)
- ✔ 2006 Buick Terraza (Electronic Control Module; LH engine compartment, 3.5L)
- ✔ 2006 Pontiac Montana (Electronic Control Module; SV6, LH engine compartment, 3.5L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. It allows us to access the exact factory calibration file for your specific vehicle, including engine, transmission, and emissions options. We program the module with this data and the latest GM software updates for a perfect match.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes, for the most part. Because we handle all the programming, you won’t need a dealer’s scan tool. However, you will likely need to perform a security relearn procedure (like the 30-minute key cycle) to sync the module with your vehicle’s anti-theft system so it will start.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This PCM will correct any issues directly caused by a failing module. It’s crucial to ensure your vehicle has been properly diagnosed. This part will not fix problems related to bad sensors, wiring, or mechanical failures.
What if I don’t perform the security relearn?
If the security relearn is not performed, your vehicle’s anti-theft system will likely activate, preventing the engine from starting. The security light on your dash may flash. This is a normal security feature, and the relearn procedure will resolve it.