Restore Your Vehicle’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your Chevrolet Cobalt or another GM vehicle acting unpredictably? Stalling at intersections, refusing to start, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light can be more than just an annoyance—it can be a serious safety concern. As a technician with over two decades of hands-on diagnostic experience, I’ve seen countless drivers chase expensive fuel pumps, sensors, and ignition parts when the real culprit was a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine, and when it falters, the entire system suffers.
This replacement ECM, service number 12603530, is the definitive solution to these frustrating issues. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair by programming the module specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation. You get a reliable, long-term fix without the costly trip to a dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Stall Case
I remember a 2006 Pontiac G6 that came into the shop with a maddening intermittent stalling problem. The owner had already replaced the battery and alternator. Another shop suspected a fuel pump. After hooking up my scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal to several key sensors would drop out randomly, just before the engine would die. There were no specific sensor codes, just a generic U0100 (Lost Communication) code stored in the transmission module. This pointed directly to an internal failure in the ECM. Instead of throwing more parts at it, we installed a VIN-programmed ECM like this one. The G6 ran perfectly, and the customer was relieved to have a definitive fix after weeks of uncertainty. This is a classic scenario where understanding the system, not just the codes, saves time and money.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is likely the solution you need:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ Engine stalling or cutting out unexpectedly while driving.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Poor or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
- ✔ Intermittent issues that seem to have no logical cause.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of our pre-programmed module is the ease of installation. While specific locations vary by model (see fitment list), the general process is very DIY-friendly.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: On a 2006 Cobalt, the ECM is typically found in the left (driver’s side) front of the engine compartment. For other models, it may be on the firewall or near the air cleaner box.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Security Relearn: In many GM vehicles, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the new ECM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact procedure for your model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM is a direct replacement for service number 12603530 and is also interchangeable with part numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. It fits a wide range of vehicles. Please verify your model and options below.
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
What do I need to do after I purchase?
What do I need to do after I purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We cannot program and ship the module without it. You can typically add this as a note during checkout or send us a message immediately after your order.
Is any additional programming required after installation?
What do I need to do after I purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We cannot program and ship the module without it. You can typically add this as a note during checkout or send us a message immediately after your order.
Where can I find my VIN?
What do I need to do after I purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We cannot program and ship the module without it. You can typically add this as a note during checkout or send us a message immediately after your order.
How do I know if my old ECM is the problem?
What do I need to do after I purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We cannot program and ship the module without it. You can typically add this as a note during checkout or send us a message immediately after your order.
Is this compatible with other part numbers?
What do I need to do after I purchase?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). We cannot program and ship the module without it. You can typically add this as a note during checkout or send us a message immediately after your order.