Restore Your Vehicle’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC acting up? A persistent Check Engine Light, rough idling, stalling, or a sudden drop in fuel economy are often symptoms of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. It’s the brain of your engine, and when it’s not working right, nothing else will. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical component for your vehicle’s health and safety.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take the guesswork and high dealership costs out of the equation. Before we ship this module, we will program it with the latest GM software updates specifically for your vehicle using the VIN you provide. This means no expensive trips to the dealer for programming and no special tools required for installation. You’re getting a reliable part that’s designed to restore your engine’s original performance and efficiency. This is the most direct and effective way to solve complex electronic issues and get your car, truck, or van running smoothly again.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start Cruze
A few months back, a 2014 Chevy Cruze was towed into the shop. The owner was at their wit’s end. The car would randomly refuse to start, with no crank and no communication with the scan tool. Other times, it would start and run perfectly for days. Two other shops had already replaced the battery and starter to no avail. After hooking up my diagnostic equipment, I noticed intermittent U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM) codes stored in other modules. In my experience, this pattern almost always points to an internal failure in the ECM itself. We installed a VIN-programmed 2012-2016 Cruze ECM, and the problem was solved instantly. The owner was thrilled to have their reliable daily driver back, and we were happy to provide a definitive, lasting fix.
Common Signs of a Failing Engine Computer
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with no clear cause
- ✔ Stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0606, or U0100
- ✔ Vehicle intermittently fails to start or stalls while driving
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- ✔ Engine misfires, stumbles, or runs rough
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifts erratically or harshly
- ✔ Loss of communication with your OBD-II scan tool
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electronic work.
- ✔ Locate the Old ECM: On most compatible vehicles like the Cruze or Sonic, the ECM is found in the engine bay, typically near the battery or firewall. It’s a silver metal box with several large electrical connectors.
- ✔ Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same location and securely fasten the bolts. Re-attach the wiring harness connectors, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- ✔ Reconnect and Start: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle may need to perform an idle relearn procedure, which typically involves starting the engine and letting it idle for a few minutes. Your vehicle is now ready to drive.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 12668866 and is interchangeable with part numbers 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your vehicle is on this list:
- Buick Encore: 2013-2016 (1.4L)
- Buick ELR: 2014-2016
- Cadillac ELR: 2014-2016
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2012-2015, 2016 (Limited)
- Chevrolet Express 2500/3500 Van: 2016 (4.8L, 6.0L)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 Pickup: 2012-2016 (6.0L)
- Chevrolet Sonic: 2012-2016
- Chevrolet Spark: 2014-2015 (Gasoline Model)
- 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 Pickup (including Denali): 2012-2016 (6.0L)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming or flashing myself?
No. The main benefit of our service is that this 2012-2016 Cruze ECM arrives at your door fully programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. It is a true plug-and-play solution.
How do I give you my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have this information to perform the programming.
What is the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
ECM (Engine Control Module) and PCM (Powertrain Control Module) are often used interchangeably. A PCM controls both the engine and transmission, while an ECM typically just controls the engine. For these GM applications, the terms refer to the same component.
Where is the ECM located on a 2014 Chevy Cruze?
On a 2014 Cruze, the ECM is typically located in the engine compartment, mounted to the firewall on the driver’s side, near the battery.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (common codes P0601-P0606) or related communication errors, then yes, this part is the correct fix. It is always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to confirm the ECM is the point of failure.