Is Your Cadillac or GM Vehicle Acting Up?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, rough idling, stalling, or a complete no-start situation in your 2010-2012 Cadillac CTS, the Engine Control Module (ECM) is a highly probable culprit. As the central computer for your engine, its proper function is critical for everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose.
“A customer’s 2011 Camaro came in last week with these exact symptoms—intermittent misfires on cylinder 3 and a transmission that seemed to have a mind of its own. After confirming the wiring and coil pack were good, we traced the fault to a failing driver circuit inside the original ECM. Swapping in a VIN-programmed module like this one resolved all the issues instantly. It’s a fix I’ve performed on dozens of these GM platforms, from the CTS to the Equinox.”
The Smart Solution: A VIN-Programmed ECM
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership for programming. This Engine Control Module arrives at your door ready for installation. We use your vehicle’s VIN to flash the unit with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This ensures perfect communication with your car’s other modules and restores the performance and fuel efficiency you expect.
Fix Common Symptoms of a Failing 2010-2012 CTS Engine Control Module
A faulty ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this part is your solution:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off while driving
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy
- ✔ Rough or erratic engine idle
- ✔ Vehicle won’t start, but the battery and starter are good
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting
Direct-Fit Installation Guide
Installing your new ECM is a straightforward process that you can do in your own driveway. No special programming tools are required.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2010-2012 CTS, the ECM is typically found in the right-hand (passenger side) front of the engine compartment. On other models like the Impala or Equinox, it may be on the air cleaner bracket or the driver’s side of the engine bay.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid wiggling them side-to-side.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new ECM into place, ensuring it’s secure. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, making sure they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a security relearn procedure, which typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes before starting.
Expert Pro Tip: Connector Health is Key
Before plugging in your new ECM, take a moment to inspect the vehicle’s harness connectors. Use a small flashlight to look for any signs of green or white corrosion on the pins, or any pins that look bent or pushed back. A poor connection is a common reason for repeat module failure. Cleaning the terminals with a dedicated electronics cleaner can prevent future issues.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is guaranteed to work if your original part number is one of the following:
Part Numbers: 12616889, 12630908, 12637106, 12642665, 12650256, 12651993
It fits models such as the Cadillac CTS, SRX; Chevy Camaro, Impala, Equinox, Captiva Sport, Orlando; Buick Allure, LaCrosse, Regal; GMC Terrain; and Saab 9-5. Simply provide your VIN at checkout, and we’ll handle the rest.