Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2008 Cadillac DTS or another GM vehicle suffering from perplexing issues like intermittent stalling, a stubborn check engine light, or erratic transmission behavior? A failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As the central computer of your vehicle, the ECM governs everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to shift points. When it falters, the symptoms can be widespread and frustrating. This replacement ECM, part number 12602044, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s original performance and reliability.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Unlike a generic module from a parts store, this unit arrives at your door fully programmed with the latest official GM software, specifically flashed to your vehicle’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This means no expensive trips to the dealership for programming—it’s designed for a straightforward installation, getting you back on the road with confidence. This is the smart, efficient way to address complex electronic issues and bring your engine’s performance back to factory specifications.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Machine
I had a 2008 Cadillac DTS in my bay that was a real head-scratcher. The customer reported random stalling at lights and a check engine light with codes for an oxygen sensor, a transmission solenoid, and an evaporative emissions leak—all seemingly unrelated. We checked the wiring and the individual components, and everything tested fine. After hours of diagnostics, experience told me to look at the central command center. On these GM platforms, I’ve seen failing processor cores within the ECM cause exactly this kind of chaos, sending out faulty signals across different systems. We installed a VIN-programmed 2008 DTS Engine Control Module, and like magic, all the ghost codes vanished and the car ran perfectly. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the root cause lies with the brain, not the limbs.
Key Signs of a Failing Engine Computer
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM could be the reason. Replacing your 2008 DTS Engine Control Module can be the correct fix.
- ✔ Vehicle will not start or is very difficult to start.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated on the dash.
- ✔ Common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine stalling, sputtering, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Harsh, erratic, or delayed automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Loss of communication with other vehicle modules.
Your Straightforward ECM Installation Guide
Installing your new ECM is a manageable task for a confident DIYer. While the exact location varies by model (e.g., under the air cleaner box on a DTS, on the firewall on a Colorado), the general process is similar.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electronic work.
- Locate the Module: Identify the old ECM in your engine bay. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual if you are unsure of the location.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove Old ECM: Unbolt the mounting hardware holding the old ECM in place and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install New ECM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly re-seat the wiring harness connectors into the new ECM. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: In some cases, a security relearn procedure may be necessary for the vehicle to recognize the new module. This can typically be done without special tools and instructions can be found online for your specific model.
Verified Fitment Across GM Models
This module is a direct replacement for a wide array of GM vehicles and is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12602044, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please verify your vehicle is on the 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
Do I need to get this module programmed?
Do I need to get this module programmed?
No. We handle all the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and it will arrive ready to install with the latest GM software for your specific car.
How do I find my VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on a small plate on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
What if the part number on my old ECM is different?
That’s very common. GM often uses multiple service numbers for the same part. This module is a direct replacement for all the numbers listed in the description, including 12590032, 12603530, and 12607096. As long as your vehicle is on the fitment list, this module will work.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For most models, this is a straightforward replacement that requires basic hand tools. Since the programming is already done, it’s a simple unbolt-and-replace job. We recommend it for anyone comfortable working on their own vehicle.