Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck
Is your 2009-2012 Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon running rough, refusing to start, or flashing a persistent check engine light? You’re not just dealing with an annoyance; you’re facing a failure of the vehicle’s central command center. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty Engine Control Module (ECM) can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems. This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine, and when it falters, everything from fuel economy to transmission shifting can suffer. This replacement ECM, part number 12630464, is the definitive solution to get your truck operating reliably again.
What sets this module apart is our commitment to a seamless repair. We don’t just ship you a box. We provide a fully programmed 2009-2012 Colorado ECM flashed with the latest stable software updates directly from GM. By providing your vehicle’s VIN at checkout, you receive a component that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This saves you time, money, and the headache of dealing with complex scan tools.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2011 Colorado 3.7L that came into my shop. The owner had been to two other places chasing an intermittent no-start condition and random stalling. No codes were stored consistently, making it a diagnostic nightmare. After checking all the usual suspects—fuel pressure, crank sensor, wiring—I noticed the failures only happened after the engine was hot. On a hunch, I used a heat gun on the ECM with the engine running. Within 30 seconds, the engine sputtered and died. The internal processor was failing under thermal stress, a common issue I’ve seen in over 100 of these specific GM platforms. A new, properly programmed ECM resolved the issue permanently. This is the kind of problem this part is designed to solve.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with communication-related codes (e.g., U0100) or internal processor fault codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ The engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires intermittently.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Issues with other electronic systems, as the ECM is a central communication hub.
- ✔ The cooling fans run constantly, even when the engine is cold.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Colorado or Canyon is a job most DIYers can handle in their own driveway. Our pre-programming service handles the most difficult part for you. Follow these general steps to get back on the road:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for all modules to power down completely.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2009-2012 Colorado/Canyon, the ECM is typically located on the right-hand (passenger side) of the firewall in the engine bay.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware holding the old ECM in place and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle may require a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure to sync with the new ECM. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. We include specific instructions for this simple procedure with your order.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This ECM is a direct replacement for a wide array of General Motors vehicles. While it is a primary solution for the 2009-2012 Colorado ECM requirement, please verify your vehicle, year, and engine in the list below. It is interchangeable with service numbers: 12636659, 12639300, 1263605, 12628993, 12628911, 12625453, 12622175, 12678512, and 12630464.
CTS (2009) 6.2L
DTS (2009-2011)
SRX (2009) 4.6L
STS (2009) 4.4L, 4.6L | (2010) 4.6L
XLR (2009) ID 12625453 or 12636659
CHEVROLET:
COLORADO (2009) All Engines | (2010-2012) 2.9L, 3.7L
CORVETTE (2009) ZR1
TRAILBLAZER (2009) 6.0L
GMC:
CANYON (2009) All Engines | (2010-2012) 2.9L, 3.7L
ENVOY (2009) 5.3L
HUMMER:
H3 (2009) All Engines | (2010) 3.7L
BUICK:
LUCERNE (2009-2011) 4.6L
SAAB:
9-7X (2009)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after installing this ECM?
Because we program the module to your VIN, the complex part is done. However, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which takes about 10-15 minutes and involves cycling the ignition key. We provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions for this with your purchase.
How do I provide my VIN?
Simply enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the designated box during the checkout process. This is critical for us to load the correct GM-certified software for your vehicle’s specific configuration.
Is this a used part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and verified OEM component. Each module undergoes a rigorous inspection and programming process to ensure it meets or exceeds original factory performance standards, providing a reliable and long-lasting repair.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (common codes include P0601, P0602, P0606, U0100), then yes, this part is the correct fix. It’s always best to have the codes read by a scanner to confirm the diagnosis before ordering.