Is Your Buick LaCrosse or GM 3.6L Vehicle Running Poorly?
If you’re dealing with a persistent check engine light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or a complete no-start condition in your 2010-2011 Buick LaCrosse, the problem may lie with the very brain of your engine: the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM, also known as the engine computer, is the master controller responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to emissions and transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose issues.
Simply swapping in a used module from another vehicle won’t work. Each ECM is programmed with specific software and a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that allows it to communicate with the other modules in your car. This listing is for a replacement ECM, part number 12636355, that is professionally programmed to your specific VIN with the latest GM factory updates. This critical step ensures seamless integration and restores your vehicle’s original performance and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a 2011 GMC Acadia come into the shop with a complaint of random stalling and a check engine light that multiple other shops couldn’t solve. The owner had already spent hundreds on new spark plugs, ignition coils, and even a mass airflow sensor. The codes were all over the place—communication errors, random misfires, and O2 sensor faults. After hooking up our professional scan tool, we noticed the live data from the ECM was freezing and dropping out intermittently. The ECM itself was failing internally, causing it to send faulty commands and generate ghost codes. We installed a VIN-programmed ECM, and the vehicle ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing symptoms instead of diagnosing the core problem can be costly. A failing ECM can make good parts look bad.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM
If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following issues, a faulty engine computer could be the culprit. A failing module can mimic many other problems, so it’s crucial to consider it as a potential root cause.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear or returns immediately.
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off while driving.
- ✔ Rough or unstable idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication error codes with a diagnostic scan tool (e.g., U-codes).
The Solution: A Programmed 2010-2011 LaCrosse ECM
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your car off the road. This replacement 2010-2011 LaCrosse ECM is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running right again. We eliminate the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. When you order from us, we flash the module with the most current GM software calibrated specifically for your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures that all factory parameters for your engine and transmission are loaded, restoring the performance and efficiency you expect.
Important Note for Buick LaCrosse and Chevy Camaro Owners: These specific models feature an advanced anti-theft (immobilizer) system. To ensure a true plug-and-play installation, we require your original ECM to be sent to us. We will professionally extract the unique immobilizer data from your old module and transfer it to your new one. This service, included with your purchase, prevents the need for complex security relearn procedures and ensures your vehicle will start and run without any additional programming.
Complete Vehicle Fitment
This ECM is a direct replacement for part number 12636355 and is compatible with several other part numbers including 19300015, 19300014, 12617230, and 12635019. It fits the following vehicles equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine:
- Buick LaCrosse: 2010-2011
- Buick Allure: 2010
- Buick Enclave: 2010-2011
- Cadillac CTS: 2010-2011
- Cadillac STS: 2010-2011
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2010-2011
- Chevrolet Traverse: 2010-2011
- GMC Acadia: 2010-2011
- Saturn Outlook: 2010
By purchasing this pre-programmed 2010-2011 LaCrosse ECM, you are choosing a reliable, cost-effective repair. Restore your vehicle’s functionality and drive with confidence. Simply provide your VIN upon checkout, and we’ll handle the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my vehicle’s VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is essential for us to load the exact, correct GM software and calibrations for your specific vehicle. This includes engine parameters, transmission settings, and any factory updates, ensuring the ECM works perfectly right out of the box.
What is the immobilizer service for the LaCrosse and Camaro?
For these models, the anti-theft system data is stored in the original ECM. To make the replacement plug-and-play, we need your old unit to transfer this security information to the new one. This avoids complex and costly security relearn procedures at a dealership. We will contact you with shipping instructions for your old module after your purchase.
Is this ECM difficult to install?
The physical installation is typically straightforward, involving disconnecting the battery and swapping the module. However, locations vary by model (e.g., LH engine compartment on LaCrosse, behind the fan shroud on Traverse). If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle, we recommend professional installation.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light and other symptoms are caused by a faulty ECM, this part will resolve the issue. It’s important to ensure a proper diagnosis has been performed, as other failing sensors or components can sometimes cause similar symptoms.
What happens after I place my order?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. We will then program the module and ship it to you. If you have a LaCrosse or Camaro, we will contact you with instructions for sending in your original ECM for the immobilizer data transfer.
Do I need to do any other programming after installation?
No. Our service is designed to provide you with a module that is ready to be installed without the need for additional dealer programming. For LaCrosse and Camaro models, our immobilizer service makes the unit fully plug-and-play.