Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2010-2011 Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain suddenly stalling, running rough, or refusing to start? Are you battling a persistent check engine light with codes that just won’t clear? As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. More often than not, the culprit is a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the central computer of your vehicle. When it falters, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and unpredictable problems, from poor fuel economy to complete transmission communication loss.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We are providing a reliable Engine Control Module, part number 12630908, that arrives at your doorstep fully programmed with the latest GM software updates specific to your vehicle’s VIN. This critical programming step ensures that all systems—from fuel injection timing to transmission shift points—operate exactly as the manufacturer intended, restoring the smooth, reliable performance you depend on.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
A customer brought in their 2011 Equinox with a maddening issue: it would intermittently fail to start. No crank, no click, nothing. All the usual suspects—battery, starter, ignition switch—checked out perfectly. After hours of chasing wires, I hooked up my high-end scanner and noticed the ECM was intermittently dropping offline. It wasn’t setting a hard fault code like P0601 every time, but it was losing communication (U0100). The internal processor was failing under specific temperature conditions. Swapping in a VIN-programmed ECM like this one resolved the issue permanently. It’s a classic failure mode for these modules due to years of heat cycles in the engine bay.
Is Your Vehicle Exhibiting These Issues?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine’s computer needs attention:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or other internal processor faults.
- ✔ Complete loss of communication with the scan tool (U-codes like U0100).
- ✔ Vehicle cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or at idle.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Misfires or rough running engine performance.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Equinox or Terrain is a manageable job for a DIYer. This pre-programmed module makes it even simpler by eliminating the need for dealer-specific tools. You’ll find the ECM located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes to allow all capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2010-2011 Equinox and Terrain, it’s mounted in the left (driver’s side) of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the main electrical harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old ECM to its bracket. Note the orientation before removing it completely.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same position and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the electrical harnesses back into the new ECM until you hear them click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Step: Some vehicles may require a security relearn procedure, which can typically be done by cycling the key. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this cycle three times. Your vehicle should now start and run correctly.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers and fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. This part is a confirmed fit for part numbers: 12616889, 12630908, 12637106, 12642665, 12650256, 12651993.
Buick:
- ALLURE (2010) – 2.4L & 3.0L
- LACROSSE (2010-2011) – 2.4L & 3.0L
- REGAL (2011)
Cadillac:
- CTS (2010-2012) – 3.0L & 3.6L
- SRX (2010-2011) – 3.0L
Chevrolet:
- CAMARO (2012) – 3.6L
- CAPTIVA SPORT (2012)
- EQUINOX (2010-2011)
- IMPALA (2012)
- ORLANDO (2012-2013)
GMC:
- TERRAIN (2010-2011)
Saab:
- SAAB 9-5 (2010-2011) – 2.0L
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VIN programming and why is it important?
VIN programming is the process of loading your vehicle’s specific software and settings onto the ECM. It ensures the computer communicates correctly with your engine, transmission, and security system. Without it, the vehicle may not start or run properly. We handle this for you before shipping.
Do I need to do anything extra after installing this part?
In most cases, this is a plug-and-play installation. However, some GM vehicles may require a simple security relearn procedure, which involves cycling the ignition key as described in our installation guide. No special tools are needed.
How do I provide you with my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can typically add it as a note during checkout or send us a message with your order number. We cannot program and ship the module without it.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module is a direct solution for a faulty ECM. If your vehicle’s issues are caused by the ECM (as confirmed by the symptoms listed or a professional diagnosis), then this part will resolve them. It will not fix problems caused by other faulty components like sensors or wiring.
Where is the ECM located on my 2011 Equinox?
On the 2010-2011 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain, the Engine Control Module is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side (LH side).