If your 2006 Buick Lucerne is suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a very likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can create a cascade of confusing problems. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer for your engine, and when it fails, your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and fuel economy suffer dramatically.
We’re offering a dependable and straightforward solution. This Engine Control Module, part number 12630457, is a direct-fit replacement for your vehicle. The most significant benefit we provide is our professional programming service. Before this module ships, we will flash it with the latest official GM software updates, precisely matched to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership and ensures a seamless installation process, getting you back on the road with confidence.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2008 Impala 5.3L that came into the shop with a complaint of random stalling at traffic lights. The owner had already replaced the throttle body and a few sensors with no luck. The scan tool showed a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM) code, but it was intermittent. After verifying power and ground integrity to the ECM connectors, we suspected the module itself. These ECMs, often located in the air cleaner box, are subjected to constant vibration and heat cycles. Over time, internal solder joints can crack, causing these maddening, intermittent failures. We swapped in a VIN-programmed module just like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a classic failure mode for this generation of GM vehicles.
Is Your Buick Showing These ECM Failure Signs?
A failing 2006 Lucerne Engine Control Module can manifest in various ways. Look out for these common indicators:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601, P0605, or P0606.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Hesitation or stumbling during acceleration.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool (e.g., U0100).
- ✔ Issues with automatic transmission shifting, as the ECM communicates with the TCM.
A Straightforward Guide to Your ECM Swap
Installing your new ECM is a manageable task for a confident DIYer. While the exact location varies by model (for the Lucerne, it’s typically in the lower part of the air cleaner box), the general steps are consistent.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes for capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the Old ECM: Find the module in your engine bay. It will be a metal box with several large electrical connectors. You may need to remove the air cleaner assembly for access.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harnesses. Most have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Securely reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click and lock into position.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete an idle relearn procedure, which typically involves starting the engine and letting it idle for a few minutes.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility List
This ECM is a direct replacement for service number 12630457 and is interchangeable with part numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, and 19210737. It fits a wide range of GM, Isuzu, and Saab vehicles. Please verify your specific model, year, and engine in the list below. Providing your VIN at checkout is essential to guarantee we send you a perfectly matched and programmed unit.
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
Choosing this pre-programmed 2006 Lucerne Engine Control Module is the smart move for any owner looking for a reliable, cost-effective repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIN programming?
VIN programming is the process where we load your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM-certified software onto the ECM. This ensures the module communicates perfectly with all other systems in your car, just like the original part from the factory.
Do I need a mechanic to install this?
Because the module comes pre-programmed, no further software flashing is needed. Installation is a direct swap. Many DIY enthusiasts can perform the replacement, but if you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle, we always recommend professional installation.
What information do you need from me?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your part until we have this information to perform the programming service.
Is a security or key relearn procedure required?
In many cases with these GM vehicles, a simple security relearn procedure is required after installation. This can typically be done without special tools and involves a sequence of turning the key in the ignition. We can provide instructions for this simple process.
What if my original part number is not 12630457?
This module is a direct replacement for several service numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, and others listed above. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this module will function correctly once programmed to your VIN.