If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, unpredictable stalling, or a 2008 Saturn Outlook that just won’t run right, you’ve likely pinpointed the culprit: a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As the central computer for your engine, its health is critical for performance, fuel economy, and reliability. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution designed to get you back on the road without a mandatory, expensive trip to the dealership.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the equation. Before this module ever ships, our technicians will program it specifically to your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures it has the latest GM factory software and communicates flawlessly with your engine, transmission, and other onboard systems right out of the box. This is the definitive fix for a wide range of electronic gremlins that can plague your vehicle.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2008 GMC Acadia (a sibling to the Outlook) that came into the shop with a laundry list of complaints. The owner reported random stalling at stoplights, a check engine light that came and went, and occasional harsh shifting. They had already replaced a few sensors with no luck. A full diagnostic scan showed a P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) and several U-codes, indicating a network communication breakdown. In my experience, once you see that P0601, the ECM itself is the source of the problem. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and it solved every single issue in one go. The customer was thrilled to have their reliable family vehicle back without any more guessing games.
Is Your Saturn Exhibiting These ECM Failure Signs?
A faulty ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a replacement is likely the solution you need:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL), especially with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or running rough for no apparent reason.
- ✔ A significant, unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Erratic or harsh automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors (U-codes) with other vehicle modules on a scan tool.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions or smog test.
A Straightforward Guide to Your ECM Installation
For the confident DIYer, replacing the ECM on a 2008 Outlook is a manageable job. The module is located behind the fan shroud, accessible from the top of the engine bay.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes before starting work.
- Locate the Old ECM: Find the module mounted behind the cooling fan assembly. You may need to remove a plastic cover for better access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unclip the large wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs, so be gentle. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click and lock securely.
- Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Start the engine. It’s normal for it to run a little rough for the first few moments. Let it idle for 5-10 minutes to allow the system to perform its internal relearn procedures. Then, take it for a test drive.
Verified Compatibility Across a Wide Range of GM Vehicles
This ECM, part number 19210737, is a direct replacement for several service numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, and 12630457. It fits a vast array of GM models. Please verify your specific vehicle in the list below.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this 2008 Outlook Engine Control Module programmed?
No. The main benefit of our service is that we program the module for you before shipping. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and it will arrive ready to install.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number. It’s a unique 17-digit code for your car. You can find it on a small plate on the driver’s side dashboard (viewable through the windshield), on your vehicle’s registration, or on your insurance card.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and common hand tools, this is a very manageable DIY repair. Our installation guide above provides the key steps. It’s a true plug-and-play process.
What’s the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
ECM stands for Engine Control Module, while PCM stands for Powertrain Control Module. On most modern vehicles like the Outlook, the terms are used interchangeably as one module controls both the engine and transmission functions.
Does this part require any special ‘relearn’ procedure?
After installation, your vehicle will perform most necessary relearn procedures on its own. We recommend starting the engine and letting it idle for 5-10 minutes. This allows the idle trim and other parameters to self-adjust.