Is Your Chevy Trax, Cruze, or Sonic Acting Up?
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light that won’t go away, rough idling, stalling, or a sudden drop in fuel economy, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. In my 20+ years as a technician, I’ve seen how a faulty ECM can turn a reliable car into a constant headache. It’s the brain of your engine, and when it starts to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and costly problems. You don’t have to keep guessing or paying for diagnostics that lead nowhere. This is the direct, reliable solution you need.
The Smart Solution: Pre-Programmed for Your Vehicle
Forget the hassle and expense of a dealership visit. This ECM arrives at your door completely programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We flash it with the latest GM factory software updates, ensuring optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control right out of the box. This process eliminates the need for expensive on-car programming tools or towing your vehicle to a shop. It’s a true plug-and-play fix.
Expert Pro Tip: Check for Oil Contamination
Before installing your new ECM, take a moment to inspect the main wiring harness connector. On these 1.8L engines, a leaking camshaft position sensor or oil pressure switch can allow engine oil to travel through the wiring harness—a process called wicking. This oil can contaminate the ECM connector pins, causing short circuits and erratic behavior that mimics a failed module. Cleaning the connector thoroughly with a quality electronics cleaner can prevent damage to your new part and ensure a lasting repair.
Restoring Performance with a 2013-2014 Trax ECM
A failing computer can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the definitive fix:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has hard starting issues
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Noticeable loss of engine power and acceleration
- ✔ A significant decrease in fuel mileage (MPG)
- ✔ Stalling at idle or while driving
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
You can get your vehicle back on the road quickly. While professional installation is always recommended, here is a general guide to the process:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the ECM: On most of these models, the ECM is located in the engine bay, often near the battery or firewall.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect the wiring harness connectors from the old module.
- Remove Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new ECM until they click. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: You may need to perform a security relearn procedure, which can often be done without special tools. Instructions are widely available for your specific model.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers and fits a range of GM vehicles. Simply provide your VIN at checkout to ensure a perfect match. Compatible with part numbers: 12679199, 12642927, 12636386, 12621466, 12630789.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options:
- 2011-2012 CHEVROLET CRUZE (1.8L)
- 2009-2011 CHEVROLET AVEO
- 2013 CHEVROLET SPARK
- 2009-2010 PONTIAC WAVE
- 2013-2014 CHEVROLET TRAX (1.8L)
- 2012 CHEVROLET SONIC (1.8L)
- 2009-2010 PONTIAC G3