Restore Peak Performance to Your Vehicle’s Engine
If you’re dealing with a frustrating check engine light, poor fuel economy, stalling, or a no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a likely culprit. As the ‘brain’ of your vehicle, the ECM controls everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a cascade of problems that are often difficult to diagnose. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s reliability and safety. This replacement 2008-2009 Allure ECM is the definitive solution to get your car, truck, or SUV running like new again.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I once had a 2008 Buick LaCrosse (which uses this exact ECM) come into the shop with an intermittent no-start condition that had stumped two other mechanics. The owner was ready to give up. All the sensors tested fine, the battery was new, and the starter was strong. On a hunch, I monitored the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM to the sensors. Sure enough, after letting the engine warm up, the voltage would suddenly drop, killing the engine. It was a classic case of internal ECM failure caused by heat and vibration over thousands of miles. Swapping in a properly programmed module solved the problem instantly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most complex issues have a straightforward solution.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it might be time for a replacement. Keep an eye out for these common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs): P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on or flashing
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start
- ✔ Rough or unpredictable idling
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- ✔ Vehicle stalling for no apparent reason
- ✔ Harsh or incorrect automatic transmission shifts
- ✔ Failure to pass emissions testing
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
We make this repair as simple as possible. Because this module comes programmed to your vehicle’s VIN, you can often complete the job right in your driveway. While the exact location varies by model (check the fitment list below), the general process is consistent.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the ECM: It’s often found in the engine bay, either on the firewall, behind the fan shroud, or attached to the air cleaner housing.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that must be released. Then, unbolt the old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new ECM into place and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Most GM vehicles require a simple security relearn procedure to sync the new ECM with your keys. 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.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12602044, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please confirm your model and options below to ensure a perfect fit.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I provide my VIN for programming?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions to reply with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We will program the module with the latest GM software matched to your VIN before shipping it out. This ensures it’s ready for installation when it arrives.
Will I need any special tools for installation?
No special tools are required. Basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers are usually all that’s needed to access and replace the module. The most important step is the security relearn, which only requires the use of your ignition key.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my vehicle’s issues?
This ECM will correct any issues directly caused by a faulty module. However, vehicle problems can be complex. We always recommend confirming the diagnosis or ensuring other potential causes (like bad sensors or wiring) have been ruled out. This module is a common and reliable solution for the symptoms listed above.
What does ‘plug-and-play’ mean?
It means the module arrives ready to be installed without the need for expensive dealer-only programming. Once you perform the simple, at-home security relearn procedure, the module will be fully synced with your vehicle.
Why is having the latest GM software important?
Vehicle manufacturers frequently release software updates to improve performance, fuel efficiency, and drivability, and to fix bugs discovered after the vehicle was built. By flashing your module with the newest software, you’re ensuring your vehicle runs as efficiently and reliably as possible.