Is Your Buick LaCrosse Running Rough?
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like an illuminated check engine light, unexpected stalling, poor acceleration, or decreased fuel mileage, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. The ECM is the brain of your vehicle’s engine, managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of performance problems that can be difficult to diagnose and leave you stranded. Don’t let a faulty engine computer dictate your vehicle’s reliability.
The Plug-and-Play Solution for Your Vehicle
This Engine Control Module, part number 12630457, is the definitive solution for your 2008-2009 LaCrosse ECM related troubles. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair process. Before we ship the unit, our technicians will program it with the latest official GM software updates, using the specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) from your car. This ensures that the module is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s factory settings and options, making installation as simple as possible. You get a component that is ready to install right out of the box, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2008 LaCrosse Super with the 5.3L V8 come into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a persistent P0606 (ECM Processor Fault) code. The owner had already replaced the spark plugs and an O2 sensor with no luck. After verifying power and grounds to the ECM, we knew the internal processor was failing. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, performed the quick 10-minute security relearn procedure, and the car ran perfectly. The customer was thrilled to have his car back on the road without the dealership price tag and long wait times.
Symptoms of a Failing 2008-2009 LaCrosse ECM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear.
- ✔ Engine misfires, stumbles, or runs rough.
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Vehicle intermittently fails to start or stalls while driving.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the module when using a scan tool.
- ✔ Specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the processor, memory, or reference voltage.
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles and is interchangeable with several service numbers, ensuring broad compatibility. Please verify your part number or consult the fitment list below. Compatible service numbers include: 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before shipping it to you. This means it arrives ready for installation, saving you hundreds of dollars in dealership programming fees.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship your part until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for the part to function in your car.
Is this part difficult to install?
For most models, the physical installation is straightforward, typically involving disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors, and unbolting the old module. After installing the new one, you may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘key relearn’), which can usually be done without special tools and takes about 10-30 minutes. Instructions for this procedure are widely available online for your specific model.
How can I be sure my ECM is the problem?
While the symptoms listed above are strong indicators, it’s always best to have a proper diagnosis performed by a qualified technician. Common trouble codes for ECM failure include P0601, P0602, P0603, P0604, P0605, and P0606. Verifying that the power and ground circuits to the ECM are intact is a key diagnostic step before ordering a replacement.
Will this fit vehicles other than the Buick LaCrosse?
Yes. This ECM, part number 12630457, fits a very wide variety of GM vehicles from 2005-2010, including models from Chevrolet, GMC, Pontiac, Cadillac, Saturn, Isuzu, and Saab. Please refer to the detailed compatibility list on this page to confirm it fits your specific year, make, model, and engine.