Is Your GM 3.6L Vehicle Running Rough?
If you’re experiencing frustrating engine issues with your 2010-2011 Cadillac STS, or another compatible GM vehicle, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. The ECM is the central computer of your vehicle, responsible for managing everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifts and emissions control. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of problems that are difficult to diagnose and can leave you stranded. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component failure that compromises your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We recently had a 2011 Buick Enclave come into the shop with a persistent, random misfire on cylinder 3. The owner had already spent a significant amount of money replacing the spark plug, ignition coil, and even the fuel injector for that cylinder, but the problem persisted. The check engine light would come on and off, and the vehicle would hesitate under acceleration. After hooking up our diagnostic scanner and monitoring the live data, we noticed the injector pulse width for cylinder 3 was erratic. A quick check of the wiring confirmed it was sound. The final diagnosis pointed to a failing injector driver within the original ECM. We installed a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the Enclave ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where chasing the symptoms can be costly, while addressing the root cause—the ECM—provides the correct, lasting solution.
Symptoms of a Failing Engine Control Module
A faulty ECM can manifest in various ways. If you’re noticing any of the following signs, it may be time to consider a replacement. Look out for:
- ✔ Check Engine Light: An illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light is the most common indicator. You may see codes related to sensor failures, misfires, or communication errors.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall unexpectedly, either while driving or at idle. You might also feel hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: In severe cases, the vehicle may crank but refuse to start because the ECM isn’t properly controlling the fuel or spark.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: An inefficiently running engine, caused by incorrect fuel and air calculations from a faulty ECM, will lead to a noticeable drop in MPG.
- ✔ Inconsistent Transmission Shifting: The ECM works with the Transmission Control Module (TCM). A failing ECM can cause harsh, delayed, or erratic shifting patterns.
- ✔ Performance Issues: A general loss of power, poor acceleration, and a rough idle are all classic symptoms of an ECM that’s on its way out.
The Direct-Fit Solution: A Programmed 2010-2011 STS ECM
Don’t let a bad computer keep your car off the road. This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 19300014, is the definitive solution for your vehicle. We take the guesswork and additional expense out of the repair process. Before we ship the module, our technicians will program it with the latest GM-certified software updates specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This ensures that once you receive it, the module is ready for installation, communicating perfectly with all other systems in your car. This is not a generic, one-size-fits-all part; it is a component precisely matched to your vehicle’s factory specifications.
This module is a direct replacement for a range of part numbers, including 19300015, 19300014, 12617230, 12636355, and 12635019. Please verify that one of these numbers matches the part you are replacing.
Complete Vehicle Fitment List:
This ECM is compatible with the following vehicles equipped with the 3.6L engine:
- Cadillac STS: 2010-2011
- Cadillac CTS: 2010-2011
- Buick LaCrosse: 2010-2011
- Buick Allure: 2010
- Buick Enclave: 2010-2011
- Chevrolet Traverse: 2010-2011
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2010-2011
- GMC Acadia: 2010-2011
- Saturn Outlook: 2010
Important Note for Camaro & LaCrosse Owners: Due to the specific immobilizer (anti-theft) systems in the 2010-2011 Camaro and LaCrosse, a simple VIN flash is not sufficient for a plug-and-play installation. For these two models, you will need to send us your original ECM after purchase. We will professionally extract the unique immobilizer data and transfer it to your new module. This ensures the replacement ECM will be accepted by your vehicle’s security system without requiring a trip to the dealer. We will contact you with shipping instructions for your old module after your order is placed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does this ECM do?
The Engine Control Module (ECM) acts as the main computer for your vehicle’s engine. It takes in data from numerous sensors around the car and uses that information to control fuel delivery, ignition timing, and emissions systems to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and reliability.
Will I need to program this module after I receive it?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. By providing us with your vehicle’s VIN, we load the correct factory software and updates, so the part is ready for installation right out of the box for most models. The only exception is for Camaro and LaCrosse models, which require an additional data transfer from your old unit.
How do I provide my Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?
You can enter your VIN during the checkout process. If you forget, don’t worry! We will contact you via email after your purchase to request the necessary information. We cannot ship your part until we have programmed it with your VIN.
Why do I have to send my old ECM for a Camaro or LaCrosse?
These specific models have a more complex anti-theft system. The immobilizer data is uniquely coded to your original ECM. To make the replacement plug-and-play, we must physically read this data from your old module and write it onto the new one. This process prevents you from needing expensive dealer-only tools to sync the new module to your car.
Is this a genuine GM part?
This is a quality replacement module that is fully compatible with the listed OEM part numbers. It is programmed using official GM software and updates to ensure it functions exactly as the original component did when your vehicle was new.