Restore Peak Performance to Your Chevrolet Trax
Is your 2013-2016 Chevy Trax giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). As the brain of your vehicle, a failing ECM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to transmission shifting, leaving you frustrated and without a reliable ride. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a problem that compromises your vehicle’s safety and efficiency.
This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 22819494, is the definitive solution to get your Trax running smoothly again. We take the guesswork and high costs out of the equation. Before we ship it, our technicians will program the module with the very latest GM-certified software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means you receive a part that is truly ready for installation, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Gremlin
A customer brought in a 2015 Trax with a complaint that stumped two other shops: intermittent stalling at stoplights and a random flurry of communication error codes (U0100, U0101). The vehicle would run fine for days, then suddenly act up. After checking the usual suspects—battery, grounds, and wiring harnesses—I focused on the ECM. In my experience, heat cycles and voltage fluctuations can cause microscopic cracks in the ECM’s internal circuits. These issues don’t always cause a hard failure right away. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module, and the problem vanished instantly. The pre-programming was key; it ensured the new brain communicated flawlessly with the BCM and TCM from the moment the key was turned.
Is Your Trax Exhibiting These Symptoms?
A faulty ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or other communication codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough or inconsistent idling and stalling.
- ✔ Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts harshly or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Replacing the ECM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Follow these steps for a successful installation of your 2013-2016 Trax Engine Control Module.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes to ensure the system is fully discharged.
- Locate the ECM: On the Chevrolet Trax, the ECM is typically located in the engine bay. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for the exact position.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in place and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click firmly into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security or CASE relearn procedure may be required with a capable scan tool, though many vehicles will start and run immediately.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles, ensuring broad compatibility and proven performance. While this listing is for the 2013-2016 Trax Engine Control Module, it also fits the following models and part numbers. Please verify your part number (12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, 12692200) for a guaranteed match.
Note: This is a summary. Specific options and IDs may apply. Please match your part number for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the VIN programming process work?
It’s simple. After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. Our technicians use this number to load the latest, most stable GM software directly onto the module, ensuring it is perfectly matched to your vehicle’s specific configuration and options.
Will I need to do anything after installing this ECM?
In most cases, the vehicle will start and run perfectly after installation. However, some GM vehicles may require a security relearn or Crankshaft Variation (CASE) relearn procedure, which can be performed with a compatible high-end scan tool. This is a standard procedure for ECM replacement on these platforms.
Is this a brand new part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and verified used OEM part. We ensure every module passes rigorous inspections for functionality before it is programmed and shipped, offering you OEM reliability without the OEM price tag.
What is the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM stands for Engine Control Module, while PCM means Powertrain Control Module. A PCM controls both the engine and the transmission, while an ECM typically just controls the engine. For most modern vehicles like the Trax, this unit functions as the primary powertrain controller.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (common codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part is the correct fix. However, it’s always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the root cause and not a faulty sensor or wiring issue.