Restore Your Truck’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your 2004-2006 Chevrolet Colorado or GMC Canyon giving you headaches with a persistent Check Engine Light, unpredictable stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition? You’re not just dealing with an inconvenience; you’re facing a failure of the vehicle’s central command center—the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing PCM can turn a dependable truck into a source of constant worry. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to getting your vehicle back to the reliable workhorse it was meant to be.
This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all computer. We take the guesswork and complexity out of the equation. When you order, you provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. We then flash this module with the very latest, most stable software directly from GM, ensuring it is perfectly matched to your truck’s specific configuration. This critical step prevents the compatibility issues and performance problems that plague non-programmed modules, saving you a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing module is a likely culprit. I’ve diagnosed hundreds of these, and these are the most common signs:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to internal module failure, such as P0601, P0602, P0606, or P060A.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling, especially when coming to a stop or at idle.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ A noticeable drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Loss of communication with the PCM when using a scan tool (U-codes).
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2005 Colorado that came into my bay on a tow truck. The owner had spent a fortune at other shops chasing a ghost. The truck would run fine for days, then suddenly stall at a red light and refuse to restart for an hour. There were no consistent codes, just a history of random communication faults. After checking the wiring and grounds, I suspected a thermal failure inside the PCM. When the module got hot, a connection would break. We installed one of these VIN-programmed PCMs, and the problem was solved for good. It’s a classic failure pattern for these modules, and this is the definitive fix.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the 2004-2006 Colorado PCM is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Since we’ve done the programming, your job is a simple mechanical swap.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the PCM: On the Colorado, Canyon, and H3, the PCM is mounted on the right-hand (passenger side) firewall in the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully disengage the locking levers on the electrical harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held by a few small bolts.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the electrical harnesses back into the new module until the locking levers click into place. Reconnect your battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a simple 10-minute key-on/key-off security relearn procedure to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Instructions are readily available online or in your service manual.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your model and year from the list below. This part is compatible with service numbers: 12569773, 12588650, 12589311, 12589585, 12591647, 12591648, 12593531, 12593532, 12594430, 12594431, 12596783, 12596784, 12597521, 12597776, 12597777, 12600818, 12604438, 12604439, 12606369, 12606373, 12606374, 12606398, 12606399, 19209820, and 19209821.
- Chevrolet Colorado: 2004-2006 (RH firewall)
- GMC Canyon: 2004-2006 (RH firewall)
- Hummer H3: 2006 (RH firewall)
- Isuzu I-280: 2006 (RH firewall)
- Isuzu I-350: 2006 (RH firewall)
- Buick Rainier: 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Chevrolet Trailblazer & Trailblazer EXT: 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- GMC Envoy & Envoy XL: 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Isuzu Ascender: 2006 (4.2L, LH engine)
- Saab 9-7X: 2006 (6 cylinder, LH engine)
Frequently Asked Questions About This 2004-2006 Colorado PCM
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to load the exact GM-certified software calibration for your truck’s specific engine, transmission, and emissions equipment. This ensures seamless operation and is not optional for this part.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Almost. We handle the difficult programming. After you install it, you only need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which takes about 10-15 minutes and requires no special tools. This syncs the new PCM to your keys.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module is the direct solution for internal PCM failures, which cause the symptoms listed above. While it fixes a wide range of issues, always ensure your vehicle’s wiring and sensors are in good condition. A proper diagnosis is key.
What if my part number is not 19209821 but is on the list?
GM often consolidates and updates part numbers. If your module’s service number is in our compatibility list, this part is the correct, updated replacement for your vehicle, guaranteed.
Do I need to send my old PCM back?
No core charge or return is required for this particular part. You can recycle your old module locally.