Restore Peak Performance and Reliability to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2009 Yukon XL 1500 or other GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, poor fuel economy, or intermittent stalling? As a technician with over 20 years of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can cripple an otherwise solid truck. The ECM is the brain of your engine, managing everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shifts. When it falters, the symptoms can be confusing and lead to costly, incorrect diagnoses.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We provide a reliable Engine Computer, part number 12625455 (also interchangeable with 12629009), that arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest GM-certified software, ensuring all factory parameters for performance, emissions, and fuel efficiency are restored. This critical step eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you time and hundreds of dollars.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall Case
I remember a 2009 Silverado 2500 that came into the shop a few years back. The owner had been to two other garages trying to solve a random stalling issue that never set a consistent trouble code. They had replaced the fuel pump and a handful of sensors with no luck. After hooking up my scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal would occasionally drop out for a split second right before the engine quit. This is a classic sign of an internal ECM failure. Instead of just swapping the part, we first verified all power and ground connections to the module were clean and tight—a crucial step many overlook. With the connections confirmed good, we installed a VIN-programmed ECM like this one. The truck ran perfectly, and the customer was relieved to finally have a reliable work vehicle again. It’s a testament to how a proper diagnosis and a quality, correctly programmed part can solve even the most elusive problems.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM could be the culprit:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or other communication codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The vehicle stalls intermittently, especially when warm.
- ✔ Rough or erratic engine idle.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass a state emissions test.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
This module is designed for a direct-fit replacement. While professional installation is always an option, many DIY enthusiasts can complete this job with basic hand tools. A security relearn procedure may be required after installation, which is a simple process that can be done without special tools.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the ECM: On most trucks and SUVs like the Yukon, Sierra, and Silverado, the ECM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, near the firewall or fender. On vans like the Express or Savana, it’s often in the LH rear of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect the electrical wiring harnesses from the old ECM. Never force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting) for 10-15 minutes. The security light should turn off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then start the vehicle. It’s now ready to drive.
Verified Compatibility for Your Vehicle
This Engine Control Module is a guaranteed fit for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and options below to ensure compatibility. This unit directly replaces part numbers 12625455 and 12629009.
CORVETTE 09 Base
ESCALADE & ESV & EXT 09-10
EXPRESS/SAVANA VANS 1500/2500/3500 09 (4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L)
G6 09 (3.5L, 3.9L)
G8 09
HUMMER H2 09
IMPALA 09 (3.5L, 3.9L)
MALIBU 09 (3.5L)
SIERRA/SILVERADO PICKUPS 1500/2500/3500 09-10 (Excludes Hybrid/4.3L)
SIERRA DENALI 09-10
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 09-10
TAHOE 09-10 (Excludes Hybrid)
VUE 10 (3.5L)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 09-10 (Excludes Hybrid)
Note: Some 2010 models require matching the ID number (12625455 or 12629009). Please check your original part.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming work?
After you place your order, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit VIN. We use this number to access the latest official GM software for your specific vehicle and flash it onto the module before shipping. This ensures it works correctly right out of the box.
Do I need to send my old computer (core) back?
No core charge or return is required for this part. You can keep or responsibly dispose of your old module.
Is any other programming needed after installation?
Our programming handles the engine and transmission operating systems. However, you will need to perform a simple ‘Security Relearn’ or ‘Key Relearn’ procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. This allows the ECM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Where can I find my VIN?
Your VIN can be found on your vehicle’s registration, your insurance card, or on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This ECM is a direct solution for failures within the module itself (like DTC P0601). While it resolves the most common issues, always ensure a proper diagnosis has been performed to rule out other problems like bad wiring, sensors, or ground connections.