If your 2006 Pontiac Montana is giving you headaches with issues like stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a frustrating no-start condition, the root cause is often a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As the brain of your vehicle, a faulty ECM can disrupt everything from fuel delivery and ignition timing to transmission shifting. I’ve spent over two decades diagnosing these exact problems, and I know how crucial a reliable ECM is to keeping your family’s minivan safe and dependable on the road.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair by programming this module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This ensures it arrives with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation. You get a part that communicates perfectly with your Montana’s other systems, restoring its original performance and efficiency without a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Is Your Montana Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication codes (like U0100) or internal processor codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine runs rough, misfires, or stalls intermittently.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts erratically or harshly.
- ✔ Loss of power or sluggish acceleration.
- ✔ Cooling fans not operating correctly, leading to overheating.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
A customer brought in their 2006 Montana SV6 with a tricky problem: it would stall randomly at stoplights, but not every time. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random communication faults. We checked all the usual suspects—battery, alternator, grounds, and fuel pressure—and everything looked solid. After monitoring live data on a long test drive, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM would momentarily drop out right before a stall. This pointed directly to an internal failure in the module. Swapping in a VIN-programmed ECM like this one solved the issue completely. It’s a classic case where the symptoms are elusive, but the fix is definitive.
Your Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing your new 2006 Montana Engine Module is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The ECM is typically located in the left-hand (driver’s side) engine compartment. Follow these steps for a smooth replacement.
- 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 ECM on the driver’s side of the engine bay. It’s a silver metal box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Wiring: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them; they should release smoothly once unlocked.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old ECM to its bracket. Keep the bolts and nuts safe, as you’ll need them for the new part.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in the same location using the original hardware. Ensure it is secure and does not vibrate.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new ECM. You’ll hear a click as they lock into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Needed): In many cases, you may 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 before starting the engine. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific procedure for your vehicle.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12607096, is a direct replacement for service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12630457, and 19210737. It is guaranteed to fit the following makes and models. Please match your vehicle, year, and engine size to ensure proper fitment.
This module fits a wide range of GM vehicles, including but not limited to:
- Pontiac Montana: 2006 (SV6, 3.9L), 2008-2009
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse: 2008-2009 (5.3L)
- Chevrolet Colorado / GMC Canyon: 2008
- Chevrolet Impala / Monte Carlo: 2006 (3.5L, 3.9L), 2008-2009 (5.3L)
- GMC Envoy / Chevrolet Trailblazer: 2007-2009 (4.2L, 5.3L, 6.0L)
- Cadillac DTS / STS / XLR: 2006-2009
- Pontiac G6: 2006-2009 (3.6L)
- Saturn Aura / Vue: 2008-2010
- …and many more models from Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, Saturn, Hummer, Isuzu, and Saab. Please verify your part number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the Engine Control Module with the exact software and calibrations for your 2006 Montana’s specific options, engine, and transmission. This makes the part work correctly right out of the box.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
Because we pre-program it with your VIN, it is as close to plug-and-play as possible. In some cases, a simple 30-minute security relearn procedure (that you can do yourself) is required to sync the module with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by a faulty ECM (common codes P0600-P0606), then yes, this replacement module will resolve the issue. However, it’s always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the true source of the problem.
How do I find my original part number?
The part number is printed on a sticker on your original ECM. You can compare it to 12607096 or the other compatible service numbers listed to confirm fitment before ordering.
What if I have questions during installation?
We’re here to help. Our team of experienced technicians can provide guidance to ensure your installation is a success. We believe in supporting our customers from purchase to final repair.