Restore Your Vehicle’s Heartbeat and Drive with Confidence
There’s nothing more frustrating than a vehicle that won’t cooperate. Random stalling, a persistent check engine light, and unpredictable performance can turn your daily drive into a source of constant stress. If your Chevrolet HHR is experiencing these issues, the problem often points to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just a component; it’s the brain of your engine, and when it falters, the entire system suffers. We’re here to provide the definitive solution: a professionally programmed PCM, flashed with the latest GM software updates and tailored specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. Get ready to reclaim that smooth, reliable performance you’ve been missing.
Warning Signs Your PCM is Failing
A faulty engine computer can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the likely solution.
- ✔ Check Engine Light: An illuminated CEL with communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0605, or P0606 is a classic sign.
- ✔ Engine Stalling or Misfiring: The engine may stall for no reason, run rough, or misfire, as the PCM struggles to manage fuel and spark timing.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but refuses to start, indicating the PCM isn’t properly controlling the ignition or fuel systems.
- ✔ Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden and unexplained drop in MPG can be caused by the PCM delivering incorrect fuel mixtures.
- ✔ Failed Emissions Test: Inability to pass smog or emissions testing is often linked directly to PCM communication errors.
- ✔ Erratic Transmission Shifting: On automatic models, the PCM plays a crucial role in shift points, and a failure can lead to harsh or unpredictable gear changes.
An Expert’s Note: The Ghost in the Machine
I once worked on a 2009 HHR that had been to three different shops. The owner was frustrated—it had random stalls, especially at idle. We checked everything: fuel pump, sensors, wiring… nothing. Finally, we hooked up a scope to the PCM outputs and saw the injector signals dropping out intermittently. It was a classic internal PCM failure. We installed one of our pre-programmed units, performed the 10-minute security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. The owner’s relief was palpable. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex problems have a simple, direct solution.
Guided Installation to Restore Peace of Mind
You don’t need to be a master mechanic to complete this repair. Our PCM comes ready to install, saving you a trip to the dealership. Follow these simple steps to get your vehicle back in top shape.
- Safety First: Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery. This prevents any electrical shorts during the installation process.
- Locate the Old PCM: On your 2007-2011 HHR, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment, on the left-hand (driver’s) side, towards the rear near the firewall.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the mounting bracket and secure it with the bolts. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle’s anti-theft system needs to sync with the new PCM. This is simple: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (don’t start the engine) for 10-12 minutes. The ‘Security’ light on the dash should turn off. Turn the key off for 10 seconds, then start the engine. Your vehicle is now ready to drive!
Easy Compatibility Check for Your 2007-2011 HHR PCM
This module is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is guaranteed to work if your original module carries one of the following service numbers: 12612397, DL216140, 12594750, 12597125, 12629019, 12635902, or 12611549. Please find your vehicle below to confirm fitment.
MALIBU 10 Electronic Control Module; 3.5L
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.3L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; classic style (emblem in grille), 2.2L
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
COBALT 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L (VIN B, 8th digit, 4-146)
COBALT 07-08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.2L (VIN F, 8th digit, 4-134)
MALIBU 11-12 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 2.4L, w/o hybrid
AURA 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.4L, w/o hybrid
HHR 07-11 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 2.2L
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/4.3L
SOLSTICE 08-10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front frame rail), 2.4L
COBALT 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.2L (VIN H, 8th digit, 4-134)
HHR 08-11 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 2.4L
LUCERNE 09-11 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
MALIBU 07 Electronic Control Module; 2.2L
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, VIN P (8th digit, opt LE5)
VUE 10 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L
G6 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.4L
IMPALA 10-11 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; new style (smooth door skin), (LH front under battery), w/4.3L
COBALT 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.2L (VIN 5, 8th digit, 4-134)
MALIBU 09-10 Electronic Control Module; 2.4L, w/o hybrid
G6 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 09 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
SKY 08-10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front frame rail), 2.4L
G5 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 2.2L (VIN F, 8th digit, 4-134)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; new style (smooth door skin), (LH front under battery), w/4.3L
G5 08-10 Electronic Control Module
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.3L
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this computer?
No, you don’t! That’s the best part. We handle all the programming for you before we ship. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and it will arrive ready for installation.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple process that syncs the new computer to your car’s anti-theft system. After installation, you just need to turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for about 10-12 minutes until the security light goes out. No special tools are required.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the old PCM (common codes include P0601-P0606), then this new module will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure the PCM is the root cause of the problem.
Where is the PCM located on my 2007-2011 HHR?
On the Chevrolet HHR from 2007 to 2011, the PCM is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the firewall.
Is this a plug-and-play solution for my vehicle?
Yes. Because we program the 2007-2011 HHR PCM to your specific VIN, it is designed to be a plug-and-play repair. The only additional step is the simple, tool-free security relearn procedure detailed in our installation guide.