Restore Your Truck’s Brainpower: A Pre-Programmed Engine Control Module
Is your 2009-2012 Chevrolet Colorado giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior can often be traced back to one component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing ECM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on incorrect repairs. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer for your engine, and when it falters, your truck’s reliability disappears.
This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12628993, is the definitive solution. We take the biggest hurdle out of the equation for you. Before this module ships, our specialists will program it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically calibrated to your truck’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means you get a component that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools. It’s the same reliable fix I’d perform in my own service bay.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Phantom Fuel Pump Problem
A customer brought in a 2011 Colorado that had been to three other shops. The complaint was intermittent stalling at stoplights, but with no consistent check engine codes. They had already replaced the fuel pump and mass airflow sensor to no avail. After hooking up my diagnostic scope, I noticed the injector pulse width and ignition timing signals were becoming erratic just before it would stall. This wasn’t a fuel or air problem; the commands themselves were faulty. The ECM’s internal processor was overheating and failing intermittently. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the truck has run flawlessly for the owner ever since. It’s a classic case where the ‘brain’ was the issue, not the ‘body’.
Is Your Colorado Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution your truck needs.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication or processor-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The vehicle stalls unexpectedly, either while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Rough or inconsistent engine idling.
- ✔ Noticeable loss of power and poor acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting feels harsh or erratic.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing your 2009-2012 Colorado ECM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Following these steps will ensure a smooth installation.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2009-2012 Colorado and Canyon, the ECM is typically mounted on the right-hand (passenger side) of the firewall in the engine bay.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damaged pins.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, making sure they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Security Relearn Procedure: In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the new ECM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Your truck should now start and run correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service number 12628993 and is interchangeable with 12636659, 12639300, 1263605, 12628911, 12625453, 12622175, 12630464, and 12678512. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- Chevrolet Colorado 2009 (All Engines)
- Chevrolet Colorado 2010-2012 (2.9L, 3.7L Engines)
- GMC Canyon 2009 (All Engines)
- GMC Canyon 2010-2012 (2.9L, 3.7L Engines)
- Hummer H3 2009-2010 (All Engines)
- Cadillac CTS 2009 (6.2L)
- Cadillac DTS 2009-2011
- Cadillac SRX 2009 (4.6L)
- Cadillac STS 2009 (4.4L, 4.6L), 2010 (4.6L)
- Cadillac XLR 2009
- Chevrolet Corvette 2009 (ZR1)
- Chevrolet Trailblazer 2009 (6.0L)
- GMC Envoy 2009 (5.3L)
- Buick Lucerne 2009-2011 (4.6L)
- Saab 9-7X 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, absolutely. Providing your VIN is critical. We use it to load the correct, vehicle-specific GM software and calibrations onto the module. This ensures perfect compatibility with your engine, transmission, and options, making the installation seamless.
Is any additional programming required after I install it?
No, this ECM arrives ready to install. The only step you may need to perform is a simple ‘key-on’ security relearn procedure, which takes about 30 minutes and requires no special tools. We include instructions for this process.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal ECM failure (like codes P0601 or P0606), then yes, this part is the correct fix. However, it’s always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the root cause and not a separate sensor or wiring issue.
Is this a used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested module that has been verified to meet or exceed original factory performance. Each unit is programmed with fresh, updated GM software specific to your vehicle.
What if my original part number is not 12628993?
That’s okay. This module is a designated service replacement for a wide range of original part numbers. Please check the list of interchangeable service numbers in our description to confirm compatibility with your old unit.