Restore Peak Performance to Your 2011 Chevrolet Caprice
Is your Caprice suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior? As the central computer of your vehicle, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose. I’ve spent two decades under the hood of vehicles just like yours, and I’ve seen firsthand how a compromised ECM can cripple an otherwise solid car. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a reliable, long-term solution to get your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently again.
This genuine GM engine control module, part number 12617568, is the definitive fix for these common ailments. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by programming the module specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means it arrives ready for installation, loaded with the latest factory software updates from GM to ensure optimal fuel economy, emissions compliance, and engine performance. You get a component that communicates flawlessly with your car’s other systems, right out of the box.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2011 Caprice PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle) that came into the shop with a ghost of a problem. The car would run perfectly for days, then suddenly die at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 10-15 minutes. No consistent trouble codes were stored, just a few random communication errors (U-codes). After checking all the usual suspects—fuel pressure, crank sensor, wiring harnesses—we focused on the ECM. By monitoring live data, we noticed the 5-volt reference signal would drop out intermittently, just before the stall. This is a classic sign of internal ECM failure, often caused by heat cycles and vibration over many years. Swapping in a VIN-programmed module like this one solved the problem instantly. The officer was back on patrol the same day, a testament to having the right, pre-programmed part on hand.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution. Look out for:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out for no apparent reason.
- ✔ No-start or hard-starting conditions where the engine cranks but won’t fire.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage.
- ✔ Poor or rough engine performance, including misfires.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
- ✔ Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing this module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. The key is the pre-programming, which eliminates the need for expensive dealer tools.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the system to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2011 Caprice, the ECM is typically located in the engine bay. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for the exact position.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Swap the Modules: Unbolt and remove the old ECM. Mount the new module securely in its place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the harness connectors into your new, pre-programmed ECM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, a simple security relearn procedure is required to sync the new ECM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This can usually be done without special tools (turn the key to ‘ON’ for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeat two more times before starting).
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12612384, 12622141, and 12617568. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles and options, among others:
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
SUBURBAN 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
AVALANCHE 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
TORRENT 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.4L
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 3.5L
AURA 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.5L
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
CTS 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), (3.6L), VIN 7 (8th digit), ID 12612384
CAPRICE 11 Electronic Control Module; ID 12612384
SIERRA DENALI 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
ESCALADE EXT 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.5L
HUMMER H2 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; classic style (emblem in grille), 3.5L
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
CORVETTE 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment)
CORVETTE 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), Z06
IMPALA 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
YUKON 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
YUKON XL 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.9L
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
TAHOE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.5L
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
ESCALADE ESV 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
ESCALADE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
IMPALA 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
YUKON XL 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)