Restore Peak Performance and Reliability to Your Vehicle
Is your Cadillac DTS, or another compatible GM vehicle, suffering from frustrating and unpredictable issues? Problems like a persistent Check Engine Light, sudden stalling, rough idling, or poor fuel economy often point to a single culprit: a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can create a cascade of problems that seem impossible to solve. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s safety, reliability, and performance. The ECM is the brain of your engine, and when it’s not functioning correctly, nothing else will.
This replacement Engine Control Module is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and hassle 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 factory software updates already installed, ready for a straightforward installation. You get a reliable part that restores the precise fuel, spark, and transmission control your vehicle had when it left the factory.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2006 Cadillac DTS that came into the shop with an intermittent no-start condition that had two other shops stumped. The owner was frustrated, having already replaced the battery and starter. When we hooked up the scanner, we found a slew of communication codes (U-codes) along with a P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error). This P-code is a dead giveaway. The internal memory of the original ECM was corrupted. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, performed the security relearn, and the car fired up instantly. The ghost in the machine was gone. This is a classic example of how the right diagnosis and a quality part save time and money.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing ECM can manifest in various ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine’s computer needs attention:
- âś” Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U-series communication codes.
- âś” Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- âś” Unexplained drops in fuel efficiency.
- âś” The engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires randomly.
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- âś” Noticeable loss of power and poor acceleration.
- âś” Other modules in the vehicle are not communicating with the ECM.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your new 2006 DTS Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. Since we program it beforehand, you can skip the expensive trip to the dealership.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: On many of these vehicles, the ECM is found in the engine compartment, often on the firewall, inside the air cleaner housing, or along a frame rail. Check your specific model’s service information for the exact location.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed module into place. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click securely into position.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle may require a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or anti-theft relearn) to recognize the new ECM. This procedure can typically be done without special tools and involves a sequence of key turns. Instructions are widely available online for your specific model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 12603530, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please check the list below to confirm this is the correct 2006 DTS Engine Control Module or part for your specific car, truck, or SUV.
ACADIA 07-08
AURA 08-09 2.4L Hybrid, 3.6L
CANYON 08
COBALT 06 2.4L
COLORADO 08
CTS 06 V-Series
DEVILLE 05
DTS 06, 08
ENCLAVE 08
ENVOY 07-09
G6 06-09 2.4L, 3.6L
GRAND PRIX 08 5.3L
HHR 06 2.4L
HUMMER H3 08
IMPALA 06, 08-09
ION 06 2.4L
ISUZU ASCENDER 08
ISUZU I-290/I-370 08
LACROSSE 08-09 5.3L
LUCERNE 06, 08
MALIBU 06, 08-10
MONTE CARLO 06
MONTANA 06, 08-09
OUTLOOK 08
PURSUIT 06 2.4L
RAINIER 07 5.3L
RELAY 06 3.9L
SAAB 9-7X 07-08
SOLSTICE 06
SRX 08 4.6L
STS 06, 08
TERRAZA 06 3.9L
TRAILBLAZER 07-09
UPLANDER 06, 08-09
VUE 08-10
XLR 06, 08-09
Note: Please match your part number or consult the detailed fitment list for specific engine and option requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. It allows our technicians to load the exact, correct software and calibrations for your vehicle’s specific engine, transmission, and options. This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box.
Is this part difficult to install?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a very manageable job. It involves unplugging the old module and plugging in the new one. The most important step after installation is performing the security relearn procedure, which syncs the new ECM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The ECM works directly with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) — or controls the transmission directly in some models — to manage shift points. A faulty ECM can send bad data, causing poor shifting. Replacing a bad ECM often resolves these hydraulic and electronic transmission symptoms.
What if I order the wrong part?
We strongly encourage you to match the part number from your old module to the numbers listed here. Providing your VIN during checkout is the best way we can double-check and guarantee you receive the correct, programmed part for your vehicle.