If you’re dealing with frustrating engine problems in your Pontiac G6—like random stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a car that just won’t start—a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As the brain of your vehicle, a faulty ECM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery to transmission shifting. This isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a critical failure that compromises your car’s reliability and safety. I’ve spent two decades diagnosing these exact issues, and I know how vital a correct, reliable replacement is.
This isn’t just a part in a box. This is a complete solution. We provide a fully tested, dependable Engine Control Module that comes professionally flashed with the latest official GM software. The key is that we program it specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ever leaves our facility. This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming, no special tools, and no headaches. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, restoring your vehicle’s performance and efficiency right out of the box.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Case of the Intermittent G6
A customer brought in their 2008 Pontiac G6 with a problem that was driving them crazy. The car would run perfectly for days, then suddenly refuse to start. Other times, it would stall at a stoplight. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a general U0100 ‘Lost Communication with ECM’ code that would pop up occasionally. After checking all the wiring and power grounds—the usual suspects—we hooked up a scope. We found the ECM’s 5-volt reference signal would intermittently drop out. This tiny electrical flicker was enough to cause chaos. Instead of a costly diagnostic rabbit hole, the fix was a reliable replacement ECM. We installed one of these VIN-programmed units, and the car has run flawlessly ever since. It’s a classic example of how a failing computer can mimic a dozen other problems.
Is Your Pontiac G6 Showing These Signs?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine’s computer needs attention:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or communication errors (U-codes).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling, especially when warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Apparent loss of power and poor acceleration.
- ✔ The vehicle enters a ‘limp mode,’ limiting speed and RPMs.
DIY-Friendly Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing the ECM on your Pontiac G6 is a manageable job for a DIYer. For the 2006-2009 G6, the ECM is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment. Follow these steps for a smooth installation:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the ECM: Open the hood and find the module on the driver’s side of the engine bay. It will have several large electrical connectors attached.
- Disconnect the Wiring: Carefully release the locking tabs on each electrical harness connector and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the ECM to its bracket or the vehicle’s frame. Set the old module aside.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the correct sockets on the new module. You should hear or feel a click as they lock into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Start the engine. The vehicle may run slightly rough for the first few moments as it completes its internal checks. Let it idle for a few minutes. Your G6 is now ready to drive!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Engine Control Module, part number 12607096, is a direct replacement for the 2006-2009 G6 Engine Control Module and is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12630457, and 19210737. Its versatile design allows it to fit a wide range of GM, Saab, and Isuzu vehicles. Please review the extensive list below to confirm an exact match for your specific make, model, and engine option.
COLORADO 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
ENVOY 07-08 Electronic Control Module; 5.3L (LH engine)
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12607096
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 19210737
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
XLR 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), ID 12607096
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.4L, w/hybrid
DTS 06 Electronic Control Module
DEVILLE 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 12590032
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12605843
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
LACROSSE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L
STS 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12636660
UPLANDER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L)
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 19210737
SAAB 9-7X 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 8 cylinder
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 12607096
MONTE CARLO 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
RAINIER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ISUZU ASCENDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (4.2L, LH engine), ID 12607096
CTS 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), V-Series, ID 12603530
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.6L
G6 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12603530
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L
ION 06 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L (opt LE5)
MALIBU 06 Electronic Control Module; 3.9L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 2.4L, w/hybrid
RELAY 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, VIN Z (8th digit, opt LAT)
OUTLOOK 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud)
SOLSTICE 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front frame rail)
VUE 08 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
VUE 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 7 (8th digit, opt LY7)
ACADIA 07-08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 12607096 (ECM)
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.6L
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 19210737
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12603530
GRAND PRIX 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner box), 5.3L
HHR 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 2.4L
STS 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12590032
ISUZU I-290 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
LUCERNE 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L
MALIBU 09-10 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, w/hybrid
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 19210737
IMPALA 06 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
MONTANA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (SV6), 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 19210737
ENVOY 08 Electronic Control Module; 4.2L (LH engine), ID 12636660
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12602044
TRAILBLAZER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), ID 12607096
TRAILBLAZER 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
CANYON 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
COBALT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L (VIN B, 8th digit, 4-146)
ISUZU I-370 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
MALIBU 09 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
SRX 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (4.6L)
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
ENCLAVE 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 12607096
G6 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12607096
IMPALA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 5.3L
XLR 06 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 4.4L
XLR 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
ENVOY 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 4.2L
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12607096
G6 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.6L, ID 12618163
LUCERNE 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L, ID 19210737
MONTANA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment)
PURSUIT 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L
VUE 10 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L
ACADIA 08 Electronic Control Module; (behind fan shroud), ID 19210737 (PCM)
DTS 08 Electronic Control Module
TERRAZA 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
SAAB 9-7X 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
HUMMER H3 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall)
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.6L
UPLANDER 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (3.9L), ID 12607096
UPLANDER 06 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.9L
Do I need to have a dealer program this module?
Do I need to have a dealer program this module?
No. The main benefit of our service is that this module arrives at your door already programmed to your car’s specific VIN. It is a true plug-and-play solution, saving you the time and expense of a dealership visit.
What is a VIN and why do you need it?
The VIN is your car’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number, like a fingerprint. We use it to load the exact factory software and calibrations for your specific engine, transmission, and options, ensuring perfect compatibility and performance.
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 will resolve the issue. If the code relates to a different sensor or component on the vehicle, that part will still need to be addressed separately.
What if my original part has a different number on it?
That’s very common. GM often updates service numbers. This module, 12607096, is the direct, interchangeable replacement for several older part numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, and others listed in our compatibility section. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list, this part will work correctly.
Is any other relearn procedure required after installation?
In most cases, no. Because we program the module with your VIN, the vehicle’s anti-theft system (Passlock/VATS) should sync automatically. In rare instances, a Crankshaft Position Variation Relearn may be needed, which can be done with a capable scan tool, but the vehicle will still start and drive without it.