Is Your GM Vehicle Acting Up? It Could Be The Engine Control Module.
The Engine Control Module (ECM), often called the engine computer, is the electronic brain of your vehicle. It manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to emissions systems and transmission shifting. When it begins to fail, it can cause a cascade of confusing and frustrating problems, leaving you with an unreliable vehicle. If you’re experiencing erratic engine behavior, a persistent Check Engine Light, or even a no-start condition in your Chevrolet Impala, Cadillac XTS, or other compatible GM model, a faulty ECM is a very likely culprit.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We provide a genuine GM ECM, part number 12666070, that is professionally programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This critical step ensures that the module communicates perfectly with all other systems in your car, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a component that is ready for installation right out of the box.
From the Diagnostic Bay
We had a 2018 Chevy Traverse come into the shop with a strange set of symptoms. The customer complained of intermittent stalling at stoplights and a check engine light that would come and go. We scanned the codes and found a slew of communication errors (U-codes) pointing to multiple modules. An inexperienced technician might start replacing sensors, but we’ve seen this before. We checked the power and ground feeds to the ECM and found them to be stable. The issue was internal to the module itself; its communication processors were failing intermittently. Replacing the ECM with a correctly programmed unit, like this one, resolved all the codes and the stalling issue immediately. It’s a perfect example of how a single failing computer can mimic a dozen other problems.
Common Symptoms of a Failing ECM
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re noticing any of the following issues, it’s time to consider your ECM as the source of the problem:
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The most common indicator. The light may be on constantly or flash intermittently.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall for no apparent reason, either while driving or at idle. You might also feel hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: If the ECM can’t properly regulate the air-fuel mixture, you’ll see a noticeable drop in your MPG.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine may crank but refuse to start. This can happen if the ECM is not firing the fuel injectors or spark plugs.
- ✔ Shifting Problems (Automatic Transmission): The ECM works with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to ensure smooth shifts. A bad ECM can lead to harsh or erratic shifting.
- ✔ Performance Issues: A general loss of power and sluggish performance can be directly tied to a malfunctioning engine computer.
The Solution: A Pre-Programmed 2017-2019 Impala ECM
Don’t let a faulty computer keep your car off the road. This replacement ECM is the most effective way to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability. By providing us with your VIN during checkout, you ensure that the module you receive has the latest GM software updates specific to your vehicle’s configuration. This plug-and-play approach simplifies the repair process, saving you time and money.
This unit is a direct replacement for part numbers 12667002, 12666070, and 12667189, ensuring broad compatibility across a range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number and check the fitment list below to confirm this is the correct component for your car.
Vehicle Fitment Information
This ECM is compatible with the following makes, models, and options. Please match your vehicle precisely.
- ACADIA: 2017 (VIN J, 11th digit, Limited)
- CAPRICE: 2017 (3.6L)
- ENCLAVE: 2017
- EQUINOX: 2017
- IMPALA: 2017-2019
- REGAL: 2017
- TERRAIN: 2017
- TRAVERSE: 2017
- VERANO: 2017
- XTS: 2017-2019 (3.6L, VIN 3, 8th digit, opt LFX)
After installation, some vehicles may require a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or anti-theft relearn), which can typically be done without special tools. Instructions are widely available online or in your vehicle’s service manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIN programming?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific software and settings onto the ECM. This includes information about your engine, transmission, and factory options. It ensures the new computer works seamlessly with your car, just like the original one did.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Is this part difficult to install?
For someone with moderate mechanical skill, the physical installation is straightforward. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connectors, and unbolting the old module. The most important part is that our pre-programming service eliminates the need for dealership-level software tools.
Will I need to do anything after installing the ECM?
In many cases, it is a plug-and-play installation. However, some GM vehicles may require a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new ECM with the anti-theft system. This procedure can usually be done in your driveway and does not require a scanner.
Does this ECM come with a warranty?
Yes, all our electronic modules come with a warranty that covers any defects in the part itself. Please refer to the warranty tab on the product page for specific terms and duration.