Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Performance
If you’re dealing with baffling engine problems on your 2006 Chevy HHR—like a persistent check engine light, sudden stalling, or poor fuel economy—the root cause is often a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty ECM can mimic a dozen other issues, leading to wasted time and money on unnecessary parts. This isn’t just a component; it’s the central computer of your vehicle, and when it falters, everything from ignition timing to fuel delivery is compromised.
This is your direct, reliable solution. We provide a high-quality replacement 2006 HHR Engine Control Module that comes fully programmed to your vehicle’s specific VIN. We install the latest GM-certified software updates before it even leaves our facility. This means no extra trips to the dealership for expensive programming. It’s designed to be a true plug-and-play fix, getting you back on the road with confidence and restoring the smooth, reliable performance you depend on.
Common Signs of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes like P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Engine stalling or shutting off for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough or inconsistent idling and hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing.
- ✔ No-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t turn over.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
Case Study: The Elusive HHR Stalling Issue
A customer brought in a 2006 Chevy HHR 2.4L that would randomly stall at stoplights. They had already replaced the spark plugs, ignition coils, and even the fuel pump based on advice from forums, but the problem persisted. When I connected my scanner, I found no active fault codes, but I noticed the live data for the throttle position sensor would occasionally drop out for a split second—too fast to set a code. Instead of just replacing the sensor, I checked the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM. It was fluctuating. This pointed directly to an internal fault in the 2006 HHR Engine Control Module. After installing one of our VIN-programmed units, the 5-volt reference stabilized, and the stalling issue was completely resolved. It’s a classic example of how a failing ECM can send you on a wild goose chase.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- ✔ Locate the ECM: On the 2006 HHR, the ECM is typically found in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment. Check your service manual for the exact location on other models.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harnesses connected to the old module. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. It’s usually held in place by a few small bolts.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed 2006 HHR Engine Control Module onto the bracket and secure it with the bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new ECM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Perform Security Relearn (If Needed): In some cases, a simple 10-15 minute security relearn procedure may be required. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle’s manual will have the specific steps.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 12590032, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is interchangeable with service numbers 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below. If you have any questions, provide your VIN and we can confirm fitment.
This part will fit these makes and models with these options
ALLURE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (lower air cleaner housing), 5.3L | 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the ECM with the exact software and calibrations specific to your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and factory options. This ensures perfect compatibility and performance right out of the box.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, for the vast majority of vehicles. Because we pre-program it to your VIN, you can typically install it and start your vehicle. Some models may require a simple, key-on/key-off security relearn procedure that you can do yourself in about 15 minutes.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this will resolve the issue. However, you should always ensure other potential causes (sensors, wiring) have been properly diagnosed first.
What if I have the wrong part number?
This ECM replaces several different part numbers. As long as your vehicle is on our compatibility list and you provide your VIN, we guarantee it will be the correct, programmed module for your car.
Do I need special tools to install this?
No. Basic hand tools, like a socket set to remove the mounting bolts and possibly a small screwdriver to help release the connector tabs, are all that’s typically required for installation.
