Restore Peak Performance to Your 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
If your Grand Prix is suffering from frustrating issues like stalling, erratic shifting, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is a very likely culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can cripple a vehicle’s performance and reliability. This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine, and when it fails, nothing works correctly. This direct-fit replacement 2008 Grand Prix ECM is the definitive solution to get your car back on the road, running as it should.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A few months back, a 2008 Grand Prix GXP with the 5.3L V8 came into my bay. The owner was convinced his transmission was failing. It had harsh shifts, would sometimes hesitate to go into gear, and had intermittent stalling at stoplights. He had already spent hundreds at another shop that couldn’t find the problem. After hooking up my scan tool, I noticed communication dropouts with the TCM (Transmission Control Module) and a history code for internal processor failure (P0606) in the ECM. The issue wasn’t mechanical; the ECM was sending corrupt data, confusing the transmission. We replaced the 2008 Grand Prix ECM with one of our pre-programmed units, performed the security relearn, and the car drove like new. The ‘transmission problem’ was gone instantly.
Is Your Grand Prix Showing These Signs?
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to consider a replacement:
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL) that won’t clear.
- ✔ Common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U0100.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or engine shutting off while driving.
- ✔ Severe decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Engine misfires or rough idling.
- ✔ Car cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Problems with automatic transmission shifting.
The Power of Pre-Programming
The biggest hurdle in replacing an ECM has always been the programming. In the past, you’d have to install the module and then have your vehicle towed to a dealership for expensive flashing. We eliminate that step entirely. When you purchase this module, simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN. We will flash the ECM with the latest, most stable GM-approved software specifically for your car. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you time, money, and a major headache.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
For the 2008 Grand Prix, this is a job most DIY enthusiasts can handle in their own driveway. The ECM is conveniently located right under the air cleaner housing.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your car’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Access the Module: Remove the engine cover and the air cleaner assembly. This will expose the ECM mounted below it.
- Disconnect the Old ECM: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical connectors. They have locking tabs, so be gentle to avoid breaking them. Then, unbolt the old module from its bracket.
- Install the New ECM: Bolt the new module into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. You will hear a ‘click’ when they are properly seated.
- Reconnect and Relearn: Reassemble the air cleaner and reconnect the battery. You will likely need to perform a simple Security Relearn Procedure (often called a ‘key-on/key-off’ cycle) to sync the new ECM with your car’s anti-theft system. This procedure can easily be found online or in your owner’s manual and requires no special tools.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12602044, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. It is interchangeable with service numbers 12590032, 12603530, 12605843, 12607096, 12630457, and 19210737. Please verify your part number or consult the list below to ensure proper fitment for your specific vehicle and engine combination.
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
Do I need to have this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. We handle the programming for you before we ship the part. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and we will load the correct GM software for your specific car. It arrives ready to install.
Where is the ECM located on a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix?
On the 2008 Grand Prix, the Engine Control Module is located in the engine bay, directly underneath the air cleaner box assembly.
Will this fix a P0601 ‘Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error’ code?
Yes. The P0601 code is a definitive sign of internal ECM failure. Replacing the module is the correct and only repair for this specific trouble code. This programmed 2008 Grand Prix ECM will resolve that issue.
What is a security relearn and is it difficult?
A security relearn syncs the new ECM to your car’s anti-theft system. It’s a simple procedure that typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-12 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. It requires no special tools and ensures your vehicle will start.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, tested, and verified OEM replacement part that has been professionally inspected and prepared to ensure it meets or exceeds original factory standards for performance and longevity.