Restore Your Buick’s Performance and Reliability
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like stalling, erratic engine behavior, a persistent check engine light, or a no-start condition in your 2009-2011 Buick Lucerne, a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As the central computer for your vehicle’s engine, the ECM is responsible for managing everything from fuel mixture and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, it can cause a wide range of problems that can leave you stranded. In my 20+ years of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty ECM can mimic a dozen other issues, leading to costly and incorrect repairs.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. When you order, simply provide your vehicle’s VIN. Our certified technicians will then program this ECM with the very latest GM-authorized software calibrations specific to your car. This ensures that when the part arrives, it’s ready for installation, communicates perfectly with your vehicle’s other modules, and restores the smooth, reliable performance you expect from your Lucerne. This is the most effective way to address common drivability problems and ensure your engine operates at peak efficiency.
Is Your Lucerne Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Unexplained check engine light illumination, often with communication codes (U-series) or internal module failure codes (e.g., P0601, P0606).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling, especially when coming to a stop or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy and poor engine performance.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Communication failure with your diagnostic scan tool.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I remember a 2010 Lucerne with the 4.6L V8 that came into the shop with a complaint of intermittent stalling. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump and crankshaft position sensor with no success. Our initial scan showed no hard fault codes, just a history of network communication errors. After monitoring live data, we noticed the ECM would momentarily drop offline right before a stall. We confirmed the power and grounds to the module were solid, pointing to an internal failure. By installing a correctly programmed 2009-2011 Lucerne ECM, we resolved the stalling and restored the vehicle’s network stability—a fix that saved the customer from further unnecessary parts replacement.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes to allow all modules to power down completely.
- ✔ Locate the ECM: On your 2009-2011 Lucerne, the ECM is conveniently located in the lower portion of the air cleaner filter box assembly.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old ECM. Press the release tabs firmly to avoid damaging the clips. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in place and securely fasten it. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click into place.
- ✔ Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Security Relearn Procedure: In many cases, a security relearn procedure is required for the vehicle to recognize the new ECM and start. This is a simple process that typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’, and repeating two more times. Please consult your vehicle’s specific procedure if needed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12625453, is a direct replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles and is interchangeable with service numbers 12636659, 12639300, 1263605, 12628993, 12628911, 12622175, 12630464, and 12678512. Please confirm your vehicle is on the list below:
- Buick Lucerne 2009-2011: Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 4.6L
- Cadillac CTS 2009: Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), 6.2L
- Cadillac DTS 2009-2011: Electronic Control Module
- Cadillac SRX 2009: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), (4.6L)
- Cadillac STS 2009: Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), 4.4L or 4.6L
- Cadillac STS 2010: Electronic Control Module; (LH frame rail), (4.6L)
- Cadillac XLR 2009: Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
- Chevrolet Colorado 2009-2012: Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.9L or 3.7L
- Chevrolet Corvette 2009: Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), ZR1
- Chevrolet Trailblazer 2009: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 6.0L
- GMC Canyon 2009-2012: Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 2.9L or 3.7L
- GMC Envoy 2009: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine), 5.3L
- Hummer H3 2009-2010: Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.7L
- Saab 9-7x 2009: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. It allows our technicians to load the exact, factory-correct software and calibrations for your specific vehicle’s engine, transmission, and options. This ensures a seamless installation and proper function without a trip to the dealership.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Yes, this 2009-2011 Lucerne ECM arrives programmed to your VIN. In most cases, installation is straightforward. However, some vehicles may require a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done without special tools. We recommend checking the specific procedure for your vehicle.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original ECM (common codes include P0600-P0606), then this replacement module will solve the problem. It is always best to have the vehicle properly diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the root cause of the issue.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, tested original equipment part that has been professionally inspected and prepared for service. It is programmed with the latest software to ensure reliability and performance that meets or exceeds the original factory standards.
Where is the ECM located on my Lucerne?
On the 2009-2011 Buick Lucerne with the 4.6L V8 engine, the Engine Control Module is found inside the lower half of the air filter box assembly in the engine compartment.