Is Your GM 3.6L Vehicle Running Poorly?
If you’re experiencing frustrating issues like a persistent check engine light, stalling, rough idling, or a complete no-start condition in your 2010-2011 Cadillac STS or other compatible GM vehicle, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a very likely culprit. The ECM is the central computer of your vehicle, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shifting and emissions control. When it begins to fail, it can create a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose, leading to costly and unnecessary repairs.
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your car off the road. This direct-replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12636355, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and efficiency. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the replacement process by pre-programming the module to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before it ships. This ensures a seamless installation process and proper communication with all other modules in your car.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2011 Buick Enclave come into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling and a check engine light for a throttle position sensor code. The customer had already replaced the throttle body twice at another shop, but the problem persisted. After confirming the new throttle body was working correctly, we hooked up our scope to the ECM. We found that the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM to the sensor was dropping out intermittently. The issue wasn’t the sensor or the wiring; it was a failing driver inside the ECM itself. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the Enclave ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing codes can be misleading, and understanding the root cause points directly to the vehicle’s main computer.
Symptoms of a Failing GM 3.6L ECM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes, especially communication (U-codes) or internal processor fault codes.
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving.
- ✔ No-start or hard-starting conditions, where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Poor engine performance, including hesitation, misfires, or lack of power.
- ✔ Erratic automatic transmission shifting or getting stuck in one gear.
- ✔ Cooling fans running constantly or not turning on at all.
- ✔ Other warning lights on the dashboard, such as traction control or ABS, illuminating without cause.
The Direct Solution: A Programmed 2010-2011 STS ECM
This isn’t just a part in a box; it’s a complete solution. The biggest hurdle in replacing a modern ECM is the complex programming required to make it work with your specific vehicle. We handle that for you. Upon purchase, you will provide us with your VIN. Our technicians will then use that information to load the latest, most stable GM-certified software onto the module. This process ensures that the ECM is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s factory settings, options, and security system.
This module is a direct fit for a wide range of popular GM vehicles equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine. Please verify your part number and check the compatibility list below to ensure a perfect match.
Vehicle Fitment:
- ✔ Cadillac CTS: 2010-2011 (3.6L)
- ✔ Cadillac STS: 2010-2011 (3.6L)
- ✔ Buick Allure: 2010 (3.6L)
- ✔ Buick Enclave: 2010-2011
- ✔ Buick Lacrosse: 2010-2011 (3.6L)
- ✔ Chevrolet Camaro: 2010-2011 (3.6L)
- ✔ Chevrolet Traverse: 2010-2011
- ✔ GMC Acadia: 2010-2011
- ✔ Saturn Outlook: 2010
Important Note for Camaro & Lacrosse Owners: Due to the specific immobilizer systems in the 2010-2011 Camaro and Lacrosse, we require your original ECM to be sent to us. This allows us to extract the unique security data and transfer it to the new module, making the installation truly plug-and-play without any additional security procedures. We will contact you with shipping instructions after your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipping. We use your VIN to load the correct GM software, so it arrives ready for installation.
Is this part difficult to install?
The physical installation is straightforward for a moderately skilled DIYer or any professional mechanic. After installation, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘key relearn’ or ‘anti-theft relearn’), which typically takes 10-30 minutes and does not require special tools. Instructions can be easily found online for your specific model. For Camaro and Lacrosse models, no relearn is needed if you send us your original unit.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you can send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. We cannot program and ship the module without it.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module will correct any issues directly caused by a faulty ECM. While the symptoms listed are common indicators of ECM failure, we always recommend a thorough diagnosis by a qualified technician to confirm the ECM is the root cause of your problem before ordering.
What part numbers does this replace?
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12636355, 19300015, 19300014, 12617230, and 12635019.