Is Your 2016 Malibu Running Rough, Stalling, or Showing a Check Engine Light?
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. Your 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, Cruze, or Cadillac CT6 relies on this module as its brain, controlling everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shifts. When it starts to fail, the symptoms can be confusing and often lead to replacing perfectly good parts.
This listing is for a genuine GM Engine Control Module, part number 12672502, delivered to your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest, most stable software updates from GM, ensuring your vehicle operates exactly as the manufacturer intended. This isn’t just a part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution.
Common Symptoms of a Failing 2016 Malibu ECM
If you’re experiencing any of the following issues, a faulty ECM is a likely culprit. I’ve diagnosed hundreds of these specific problems in my shop, and they almost always trace back to the main computer.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) with various codes that won’t clear.
- ✔ Rough or erratic idling.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or engine hesitation, especially when warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy (MPG).
- ✔ The vehicle cranks but refuses to start (no-start condition).
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifting.
From My Service Bay: A Real-World Diagnosis
“A customer’s 2016 Malibu came in last week with these exact symptoms: an intermittent misfire on cylinder 3 and a P0303 code that kept returning. The owner had already spent a small fortune replacing the spark plug, ignition coil, and even the fuel injector for that cylinder, but the problem persisted. After confirming the new parts were good, my diagnostics led me to the ECM. Using a scope, I found the driver circuit inside the original ECM that fires the #3 injector was failing intermittently. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the car has run flawlessly ever since. It’s a classic case where the problem isn’t the component, but the computer controlling it.”
Plug-and-Play Installation: No Dealer Visit Required
One of the biggest advantages of our service is the pre-programming. We handle the complex part so you don’t have to. Forget about towing your car to a dealership and paying hundreds for programming. This module is designed for a straightforward DIY installation.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2016 Malibu, the ECM is found in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Swap the Module: Unbolt the old ECM and mount the new module in its place.
- Reconnect: Securely plug the electrical connectors into your new ECM. You’ll hear a click as they lock in place.
- Final Step: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start.
Guaranteed Fitment
This ECM, part number 12672502, is a direct-fit replacement for the following vehicles with the specified options. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure we load the correct software for your vehicle’s specific configuration.
- 2016 Chevrolet Cruze: Electronic Control Module; VIN B (4th digit, New Style)
- 2016 Chevrolet Malibu: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), VIN Z (4th digit, New Style)
- 2016 Cadillac CT6: For models with the 2.0L engine
Stop chasing symptoms and address the root cause of your vehicle’s issues. Order your pre-programmed ECM today and restore the performance and reliability you depend on.