Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Get Back on the Road with Confidence
If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or a complete no-start condition in your Chevrolet Volt, the Engine Control Module (ECM) is often the culprit. As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing ECM can mimic a dozen other problems, leading to wasted time and money on incorrect repairs. This isn’t just a component; it’s the central computer responsible for engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions. When it fails, your vehicle’s reliability is compromised.
We offer a dependable and straightforward solution. This is a genuine OEM-quality Engine Control Module, meticulously programmed to your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Before we ship it, we flash it with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures seamless communication with your car’s other modules and resolves many issues caused by outdated factory software. You get a part that’s ready to install right out of the box, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Machine
A customer brought in a 2013 Chevy Volt with a problem that had stumped two other shops. It had intermittent stalling at low speeds and a flurry of communication error codes (U-codes) that would come and go. They had already replaced the battery and checked all the main power and ground wires. On my diagnostic scanner, everything looked fine until, suddenly, data streams from the engine sensors would freeze. After 20 years of chasing electrical gremlins, this pointed me straight to the processor. We swapped in one of our pre-programmed ECMs, performed the security relearn, and the car ran perfectly. It wasn’t a wiring issue; the original ECM’s internal processor was failing under load—a classic failure I’ve seen hundreds of times. This part fixed it for good.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601, P0606 (Internal Control Module Failure) or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ Stalling, hesitation, or rough idling.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts harshly or at the wrong times.
- ✔ Seemingly unrelated error messages on the dashboard.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. While the specific location may vary slightly by model, the general process is consistent. Always consult a service manual for your exact vehicle if unsure.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s 12V battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2011-2015 Volt, the ECM (also known as the K20 Engine Control Module) is located in the left rear of the engine compartment. On trucks and vans, it’s often on the driver’s side fender or firewall.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. It’s typically held in place by a few small bolts or nuts.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket. Reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: Most GM vehicles require a security relearn procedure to allow the engine to start. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. This allows the new ECM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 12663405 and interchanges with 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. It is guaranteed to fit the following GM models:
- Buick Encore: 2013-2016 (1.4L)
- Cadillac ELR: 2014-2016
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2012-2016 (Gasoline models)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500: 2012-2016 (6.0L)
- Chevrolet Sonic: 2012-2016 (1.4L)
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline)
- Chevrolet Suburban 3500: 2016
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013-2016
- Chevrolet Volt: 2011-2015
- GMC Savana 2500/3500 Van: 2016 (4.8L, 6.0L)
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500 & Denali: 2012-2016 (6.0L)
IMPORTANT: After purchase, please send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship your order until we have your VIN to program the module correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after I install it?
Yes. While the main engine programming is done for you, you MUST perform the vehicle’s security relearn procedure. This is a simple process that syncs the new ECM to your car’s anti-theft system and can be done without any special tools. Instructions are included above.
Is this a plug-and-play part?
It’s as close as it gets. Because we program it to your VIN, you avoid a trip to the dealer. The only step required after physical installation is the security relearn, which you can do yourself in about 30 minutes.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, simply send us a message with your 17-digit VIN. You can find it on your vehicle’s dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your insurance/registration documents.
What if my part number isn’t 12663405 but is on the interchange list?
That’s perfectly fine. Manufacturers often update part numbers over time. As long as your original module’s part number is listed in our compatibility chart (e.g., 12668866, 12643636, etc.), this module is the correct, updated replacement for your vehicle.
What is your warranty or return policy?
We stand behind our products with a comprehensive warranty. Because these modules are programmed specifically for your vehicle, returns are generally limited to defective units. Please review our full warranty and return policy on our store page for complete details.