Restore Peak Performance to Your Pontiac Solstice
If you’re dealing with baffling engine problems in your 2006 Pontiac Solstice—like a persistent check engine light, sudden stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition—a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As the ‘brain’ of your vehicle’s engine, the ECM governs everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifts. When it falters, performance suffers. This replacement ECM is your direct-fit, reliable solution to get your Solstice running smoothly again.
We take the guesswork and complexity out of the repair. Unlike a generic module from a parts store, this unit arrives at your door pre-programmed with the latest official GM software, specifically calibrated to your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures seamless communication between all your vehicle’s systems, restoring original factory performance and efficiency without requiring an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2008 Pontiac G6 that came into the shop with a ghost of a problem. The owner complained of random stalling at traffic lights and an intermittent no-start that never seemed to happen when I had the car. We checked the battery, alternator, and fuel pump—all tested fine. The scanner showed a few vague communication codes (U-codes) but nothing consistent. After chasing our tails for a few hours, we decided to monitor the ECM’s live data streams. We noticed the 5-volt reference signal would occasionally drop out for a split second, just before the engine would stumble. That was the clue. An internal failure in the original ECM was causing the intermittent short. Swapping in a VIN-programmed module like this one solved the problem instantly. The customer was thrilled to have his reliable car back after weeks of uncertainty.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine’s computer needs attention:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) illumination, especially with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating during acceleration.
- ✔ A complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Your ECM Replacement
Installing your new 2006 Solstice Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While the exact location varies by model, the general process is similar. For the 2006 Solstice, you’ll find it on the left-hand front frame rail.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental power surges.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2006 Solstice, the ECM is mounted to the front left frame rail. On other vehicles, it may be in the engine bay, near the firewall, or under the air cleaner housing.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many GM vehicles, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or Passkey relearn) to sync the new ECM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This procedure typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes and can be done without special tools.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This ECM is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please verify your part number and check the compatibility list below.
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 you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to load the exact, correct GM software for your car’s specific options and systems. This ensures the ECM works perfectly right out of the box, just like a part from the original manufacturer.
Will I need to do any other programming after installation?
The main engine calibration is done for you. However, you will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which syncs the new ECM to your car’s anti-theft system. This can typically be done in your driveway without any special scan tools.
Is this a difficult part to install myself?
For most DIYers with basic tools, this is a very manageable repair. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging a few connectors, and removing a few bolts. Please refer to our installation guide above.
How can I be sure this part will fit my car?
The best way is to match the service number from your original ECM to one of the numbers listed (12590032, 12602044, etc.). You can also use the detailed vehicle fitment list provided on this page to confirm compatibility.
What is the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
ECM stands for Engine Control Module, while PCM stands for Powertrain Control Module. In many modern vehicles, they are the same thing—a PCM simply integrates the transmission control functions into the main engine computer. The terms are often used interchangeably.