Restore Your Vehicle’s Core Performance with a VIN-Programmed Engine Control Module
Is your Cadillac ELR, Chevy Cruze, or Silverado exhibiting strange and frustrating behavior? Intermittent stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a complete no-start condition can often be traced back to a single, critical component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). As the brain of your vehicle’s powertrain, when the ECM fails, it can create a cascade of problems that are often misdiagnosed. I’ve seen it countless times in my 20+ years in the shop—customers spend hundreds on sensors and other parts, only to find the root cause was the computer all along.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We take the guesswork and the expensive trip to the dealership out of the equation. Each module, including part number 22819494, is professionally programmed with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during checkout. This ensures that when you receive the part, it’s ready to integrate seamlessly, restoring the precise fuel delivery, ignition timing, and transmission shifting your vehicle was designed for.
Common Signs of a Failing Engine Computer
If you’re experiencing any of the issues below, a faulty ECM is a likely culprit. A failing module can trigger a wide range of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), with P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM) being common indicators.
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light illumination.
- ✔ Vehicle refuses to start or has trouble turning over.
- ✔ Noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or misfiring while driving.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Apparent failure of multiple unrelated sensors at once.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
A few months back, a 2015 Chevy Cruze came into my bay with a bizarre issue. The owner complained of random stalling at stoplights and the cooling fans running constantly, even on a cold start. His local mechanic had already replaced the coolant temperature sensor and the thermostat, but the problem persisted. When I connected my scanner, I saw a handful of intermittent communication codes. Instead of chasing electrical gremlins, I went straight for the ECM. After swapping in a pre-programmed module, every single issue vanished. The original ECM had an internal fault that was sending erroneous data across the vehicle’s network, creating phantom problems. This case is a perfect example of how a quality-tested 2014-2016 ELR Engine Module can be the one-shot fix for a complex diagnostic headache.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new ECM is a manageable job for a DIY enthusiast. By getting a module pre-programmed to your VIN, you skip the most complicated step. Follow these general steps to get back on the road.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the Cadillac ELR and Chevy Volt, the ECM is found in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment. On trucks like the Silverado, it’s typically on the left-hand front side. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual if you’re unsure.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or 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 ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and securely tighten the bolts. Re-connect the wiring harnesses, ensuring the locking tabs click firmly into place.
- Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Some vehicles may require a security relearn procedure, which can often be done by cycling the key. Start the engine and check for proper operation and ensure the Check Engine Light is off.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility for Part 22819494
This Engine Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide array of General Motors vehicles, provided the part number matches. It is a compatible replacement for service numbers 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, and 12692200. Please verify your vehicle from the list below:
- Cadillac ELR (2014-2016)
- Chevrolet Cruze (2012-2016, various engines)
- Chevrolet Sonic (2012-2016, various engines)
- Chevrolet Trax (2013-2016)
- Chevrolet Volt (2011-2015)
- Chevrolet Spark (2014-2015, gasoline)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 (2012-2016, 6.0L)
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500 & Denali (2012-2016, 6.0L)
- Chevy Express / GMC Savana 2500/3500 (2016, 4.8L & 6.0L)
- Buick Encore (2013-2016, 1.4L)
- Chevrolet Suburban 3500 (2016)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after installing this ECM?
Because we program the module to your VIN before shipping, it should be a plug-and-play installation. In some cases, a security relearn or Crankshaft Position Sensor (CASE) relearn may be required, which can be done with a capable scan tool or a specific key-cycle procedure.
What information do you need from me?
We need your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to program the module correctly. Please provide this in the notes section during checkout or send us a message after your purchase to avoid shipping delays.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, tested replacement part that is guaranteed to function correctly. We ensure each unit is flashed with the latest stable software from GM for your specific vehicle.
Will this fix my car’s problem?
This part is a direct solution for a failed ECM. While we cannot diagnose your vehicle remotely, the symptoms listed above are strong indicators of ECM failure. For a definitive diagnosis, we recommend consulting a professional mechanic or using a high-end scan tool to check for codes like P0601.
How is this different from buying one at a junkyard?
A used module from another vehicle will not work in yours without being reprogrammed by a dealer or a specialized shop. Our service includes this critical programming, saving you hundreds in fees and ensuring it works right out of the box.
What is the warranty on this 2014-2016 ELR Engine Module?
All our programmed modules come with a comprehensive warranty. Please see the warranty tab on this listing for complete details and peace of mind with your purchase.