Is your 2006 Saturn ION giving you headaches with a persistent Check Engine Light, unpredictable stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition? You’re not alone. The Engine Control Module (ECM) is the brain of your vehicle’s engine management system, and when it fails, it can cause a wide range of baffling issues. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty ECM can turn a reliable car into a source of constant stress. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution to restore your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind.
We take the guesswork and extra expense out of the repair. This genuine OEM 2006 Saturn ION Engine Control Module arrives at your door programmed specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This means we load the latest, most stable software updates from GM before it even ships. You get a module that’s ready for installation right out of the box, eliminating the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools. It’s the most effective way to get your Saturn ION running smoothly again.
Common Signs of a Failing Saturn ECM
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Unexplained engine stalling or hesitation, especially when warm.
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Loss of communication with other modules, often triggering a U0100 code.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy and overall engine performance.
- ✔ Erratic transmission shifting or other electronic accessory malfunctions.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent ION
I remember a 2006 Saturn ION 2.4L that came into the shop with an issue that was driving the owner crazy. It would randomly refuse to start, but only after it had been driven for a while and sat for about an hour. No codes at first, just a crank-no-start. Eventually, it threw a U0100 ‘Lost Communication with ECM’ code. Before condemning the computer, we did our due diligence: checked the main power and ground wires at the ECM connector. Everything was solid. This pointed directly to an internal failure in the module, likely a hairline crack in a circuit board that would separate when warm. We installed a VIN-programmed 2006 Saturn ION Engine Control Module, and the problem was solved permanently. It’s a classic case where the symptoms seem random, but the root cause is a failing ECM.
Your Straightforward ECM Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait about 10 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge.
- ✔ Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Saturn ION, the Engine Control Module is typically located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, near the firewall or strut tower.
- ✔ Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out. Avoid wiggling them side-to-side. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Firmly reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click and lock securely.
- ✔ Final Steps: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may require a security relearn procedure, which can often be done without special tools (consult your owner’s manual or a reliable online resource for the specific steps). Start the engine and let it idle to confirm the repair.
Guaranteed Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your make, model, and engine options below. This ECM is interchangeable with service numbers: 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737.
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
Do I need to get this programmed by a dealer?
No. We program the module to your vehicle’s VIN before we ship it to you. It arrives ready to install, saving you time and money.
What information do you need from me?
After you place your order, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is critical for us to load the correct GM software for your specific vehicle.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module is a direct solution for failures within the ECM itself. While it resolves many common issues like internal processor faults (P0606) and communication errors, always ensure your vehicle’s wiring and sensors have been properly diagnosed.
Is this a difficult part to install for a DIYer?
For most individuals with basic hand tools, this is a very manageable job. The most important parts are safely disconnecting the battery and being careful with the electrical connectors. Our installation guide provides the key steps.
What if I have a different part number on my old module?
This module is a direct replacement for several service numbers, including 12590032, 12602044, 12605843, and more. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this part will function correctly.