Restore Your Vehicle’s Brain and Get Back on the Road
Is your Buick Regal or other GM vehicle acting possessed? Unexplained stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic engine behavior can often be traced back to one critical component: the Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing ECM can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer that manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it fails, the symptoms can be baffling. That’s why we offer this direct-fit, professionally programmed ECM, designed to restore your vehicle’s performance and reliability without a costly trip to the dealership.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom Electrical Problem
I remember a 2012 Chevy Impala that came into the shop with a list of complaints that didn’t seem to add up. The owner reported random stalling at red lights, occasional hard shifts, and a check engine light that would come and go. We checked for vacuum leaks, tested sensors, and inspected wiring harnesses, but everything looked solid. The scanner pulled a P0606 (ECM Processor Fault) and a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM). These codes point directly to the engine computer. Heat and vibration are the biggest enemies of these modules. After years of service, internal connections can fail, causing the exact kind of intermittent chaos this owner was experiencing. We replaced the faulty unit with a pre-programmed ECM just like this one. The installation took less than 30 minutes, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where shotgunning parts would have been a waste of time and money; the real solution was replacing the vehicle’s electronic brain.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing engine computer can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM could be the culprit. Look out for these common indicators:
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U-series communication codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or rough idling, especially when warm.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Other warning lights (like traction control) illuminating for no reason.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
One of the biggest benefits of this module is that it arrives at your door ready to install. We handle the complex programming using your vehicle’s VIN, saving you time and money. Here’s a general guide to getting it installed:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the Old ECM: On your 2011 Regal, the ECM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment. Consult a repair manual for your specific model if you’re unsure.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully unlatch and remove the electrical wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect them for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and securely reconnect the wiring harnesses. You should hear a ‘click’ as they lock into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to complete a drive cycle for all systems to normalize. No dealer visit required!
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM, part number 12630908, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. It is interchangeable with part numbers 12616889, 12637106, 12642665, 12650256, and 12651993. Please verify your vehicle from the list below:
- Buick Allure: 2010 (2.4L, 3.0L)
- Buick LaCrosse: 2010-2011 (2.4L, 3.0L)
- Buick Regal: 2011
- Cadillac CTS: 2010-2012 (3.0L, 3.6L)
- Cadillac SRX: 2010-2011 (3.0L)
- Chevrolet Camaro: 2012 (3.6L)
- Chevrolet Captiva Sport: 2012
- Chevrolet Equinox: 2010-2011
- Chevrolet Impala: 2012
- Chevrolet Orlando: 2012-2013
- GMC Terrain: 2010-2011
- Saab 9-5: 2010-2011 (2.0L)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ECM and what does it do?
The Engine Control Module (ECM), or engine computer, is the main computer that controls your vehicle’s engine performance and drivability. It manages fuel delivery, spark timing, emissions systems, and communicates with other modules in your car.
Does this ECM need to be programmed?
No, you do not need to take it anywhere for programming. We flash the module with the latest GM software specific to your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before we ship it to you. It arrives ready for installation.
How do I provide my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit VIN. You can typically find this on your vehicle’s dashboard (viewable through the windshield on the driver’s side), on your insurance card, or on the driver’s side door jamb sticker.
Is this a simple DIY job?
For most DIY enthusiasts with basic tools, this is a straightforward replacement. The most important part is ensuring the battery is disconnected. Since we handle the programming, you avoid the most complicated step of the process.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is on due to an internal failure of the ECM (common codes P0601-P0606), then this replacement module will solve the problem. However, if the light is on for another reason (like a bad sensor), you will still need to fix that underlying issue.