Restore Peak Performance and Reliability to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Chevrolet Volt, Cruze, or Sonic suddenly stalling, running rough, or refusing to start? Are you battling a persistent Check Engine Light with confusing communication codes? You’re not just dealing with a minor annoyance; you’re likely facing a failing Engine Control Module (ECM)—the central computer of your vehicle. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can create a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This isn’t just a part; it’s the solution to getting your vehicle’s brain back in optimal condition.
This isn’t a generic, off-the-shelf computer. We take a reliable, tested ECM and professionally program it with the latest GM-certified software, tailored specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This critical step ensures that all systems—from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting and emissions controls—operate exactly as the manufacturer intended. By purchasing this 2011-2015 Volt Engine Control Module, you are bypassing the expensive and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Puzzle
A customer brought in a 2014 Chevy Cruze with an issue that stumped two other shops: it would intermittently fail to crank. No codes were stored initially, but eventually, a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM) code appeared. We checked all the basics—battery, starter, grounds, and CAN bus wiring—and everything seemed fine. On a hunch, I monitored the ECM’s internal temperature data. I’ve seen dozens of these Ecotec-platform ECMs fail internally when they get hot. After letting the engine run for 30 minutes, the data stream from the ECM dropped out completely. We let it cool down, and it started right up. The culprit was a hairline fracture on the ECM’s main board, expanding just enough when hot to break a connection. Replacing it with a properly programmed module like this one provided a permanent fix.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Red Flags?
A failing ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine’s computer needs attention.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with no clear cause.
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0606 (Internal Control Module Processor Error), or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM).
- ✔ Engine stalling, hesitating, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Vehicle won’t start, or cranks but won’t fire up.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Loss of power or poor acceleration.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Replacing the ECM is a task many DIYers can handle. Following these steps ensures a safe and successful installation.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2011-2015 Volt, the ECM is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment. On trucks and vans, it’s typically on the LH front of the engine compartment. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location on your specific model.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Do not force them.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you will need it for the new module.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the electrical connectors firmly into the new ECM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (If Needed): In many cases, the vehicle will start and run perfectly. However, some GM vehicles may require a simple 10-minute security relearn procedure using only the ignition key. We include instructions for this easy process.
Verified Fitment For a Wide Range of GM Vehicles
This module is a direct replacement for part number 12668866 and is also interchangeable with the following part numbers: 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. It fits a broad selection of GM cars, trucks, and vans. Please verify your vehicle and options below:
CHEVROLET CRUZE 12-14 (1.4L & Gasoline)
CHEVROLET CRUZE 15 (Gasoline, ID 12643636 or 12668866)
CHEVROLET CRUZE 16 (Limited, VIN P)
CHEVROLET SONIC 12-16 (1.4L or matching ID)
CHEVROLET TRAX 13-16 (1.4L)
CHEVROLET SPARK 14-15 (Gasoline)
CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500/3500 12-16 (6.0L)
CHEVROLET SUBURBAN 3500 16
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN 16 (4.8L or 6.0L)
GMC SIERRA 2500/3500/DENALI 12-16 (6.0L)
GMC SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN 16 (4.8L or 6.0L)
BUICK ENCORE 13-16 (1.4L)
CADILLAC ELR 14-16 (Gasoline Engine)
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 calibrations onto the ECM. This includes information about your engine, transmission, emissions equipment, and security system. Without it, the module won’t communicate correctly with your vehicle, leading to running issues or a no-start condition. We handle this for you, so it’s ready to install.
Do I need to do anything after installation?
In most cases, the vehicle will be ready to go. Some GM vehicles require a simple anti-theft relearn, which takes about 10-15 minutes and only requires your ignition key. We provide easy-to-follow instructions for this procedure with your order.
Will this fix my specific problem or Check Engine Light code?
This module is a direct solution for failures internal to the ECM itself, such as codes P0601, P0606, or U0100. While it can resolve many running issues, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle’s problem isn’t caused by a bad sensor or wiring. Proper diagnosis is key, but a faulty ECM is a very common failure point on these models.
Where is the ECM located on my 2013 Chevy Volt?
For the 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt, the gasoline engine control module is located in the rear of the engine compartment on the driver’s side (LH side).
What information do you need from me?
After you place your order, we simply need you to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We use this to load the correct, most up-to-date GM software for your exact vehicle configuration before we ship the part.