Restore Your Cadillac’s Performance and Reliability
If your 2008 Cadillac DTS is experiencing frustrating issues like stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, no-start conditions, or erratic engine behavior, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to transmission shifting. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that compromises your vehicle’s safety and performance. This replacement ECM is the definitive solution, arriving at your door pre-programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle’s VIN.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2008 Cadillac DTS that came into my bay with a complaint of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a random no-start that would resolve itself after a few minutes. The owner had already replaced the battery and alternator. My initial scan showed no hard fault codes, only a few history codes for lost communication (U0100). This is a classic sign of a failing computer. The internal processors of the original ECM were overheating, causing them to temporarily shut down. After confirming power and ground to the module were solid, we installed a VIN-programmed 2008 DTS Engine Control Module just like this one. The problem was solved instantly. The pre-flashed software meant no trip to the dealer, saving the customer hundreds of dollars and a full day of downtime.
Common Signs of a Failing ECM
Your vehicle’s ECM is its brain, and when it starts to fail, the symptoms can be widespread. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your ECM may need replacement:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and engine performance.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting issues.
- ✔ Loss of communication with other vehicle modules, often setting U-codes.
- ✔ Your vehicle fails an emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 2008 DTS Engine Control Module is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Our VIN-programming service makes this process significantly easier, but a security relearn procedure is required after installation.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2008 Cadillac DTS, the ECM is typically found in the engine compartment. Consult a service manual for the exact location on your specific model if you’re unsure.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. There are usually locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new ECM into place and securely reconnect all electrical connectors. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This is a critical step. Attempt to start the engine; it will likely start and then stall. Leave the key in the ‘ON’ position for 10-12 minutes until the security light on the dash turns off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then repeat this cycle two more times (for a total of three cycles, approx. 30 minutes). The vehicle should then start and run normally.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 19210737, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, and 12630457. While this listing is for a 2008 DTS Engine Control Module, please verify your part number and check the extensive list below to ensure a perfect match for your car, truck, or SUV.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
ALLURE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L | 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
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM-certified software for your specific car. This saves you time and the high cost of dealer programming.
What is the security relearn procedure?
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM-certified software for your specific car. This saves you time and the high cost of dealer programming.
How do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM-certified software for your specific car. This saves you time and the high cost of dealer programming.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my car’s problems?
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout, and we will flash the module with the latest GM-certified software for your specific car. This saves you time and the high cost of dealer programming.
