Restore Your GM Vehicle’s Performance and Reliability
Is your 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze, or other compatible GM vehicle suffering from baffling electrical issues? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can cause a cascade of problems that seem impossible to diagnose. From random stalling and poor fuel economy to a persistent Check Engine Light, a faulty ECM can make your car unreliable and frustrating to drive. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a core component failure that affects everything from your engine’s timing to your transmission’s shifting.
This replacement 2012-2016 Sonic Engine Control Module is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running correctly again. It’s not just a part; it’s a ready-to-install fix. We take the hassle and high cost of dealership programming out of the equation. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our experts will program the module with the latest GM-certified software specific to your car. This ensures perfect communication between the engine, transmission, and other onboard systems, restoring the smooth, efficient operation you expect.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent No-Start
I remember a 2014 Chevy Sonic that came into my bay with a truly frustrating problem. The owner said it would randomly refuse to start, but only after it had been driven and sat for about an hour. All the usual suspects—battery, starter, fuel pump—checked out fine. We weren’t getting any communication with the ECM on the scan tool during these no-start events. After checking the power and ground circuits to the module itself, we found they were solid. The culprit was internal failure within the original ECM, which was overheating and shutting down. Swapping in a pre-programmed module like this one resolved the issue instantly. The customer went from considering selling the car to having their reliable daily driver back.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Signs of ECM Failure?
A failing engine computer can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM is a likely cause. Look out for these common symptoms and associated Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with no clear cause
- âś” Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring unexpectedly
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency
- âś” Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- âś” The engine cranks but refuses to start (intermittent or constant)
- âś” Communication errors with your scan tool (e.g., U0100 – Lost Communication with ECM/PCM)
- âś” Internal module memory codes stored (e.g., P0601, P0606)
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
Installing your new 2012-2016 Sonic Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Following these steps will help ensure a smooth process. Remember, this module arrives programmed to your VIN, but a security relearn procedure is often required.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the ECM: On most compatible vehicles like the Sonic or Cruze, the ECM is located in the engine bay, often near the battery or firewall. It’s a silver metal box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip and remove all electrical harness connectors from the old module. Take care not to damage the locking tabs.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the electrical connectors into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will likely need to perform a security or anti-theft relearn procedure. 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. Consult your vehicle’s specific procedure for exact details.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This Engine Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below to ensure proper fitment. This module replaces part numbers 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200.
Fits select models of: Buick Encore, Cadillac ELR, Chevrolet Cruze, Sonic, Spark, Trax, Volt, Express, Silverado, Suburban, and GMC Savana, Sierra. Please refer to the detailed fitment data on this page to confirm compatibility with your specific year, model, and engine option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. This module arrives pre-programmed with the latest GM software matched to the VIN you provide at checkout. However, you will likely need to perform a simple, key-on/key-off security relearn procedure after installation.
What is a VIN and why do you need it?
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-digit code for your car. It contains critical information about your vehicle’s specific options, engine, and transmission. We use it to load the exact correct software onto your new ECM for seamless operation.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module is a direct replacement for a faulty ECM. If your vehicle has been properly diagnosed with a failed engine computer, this part will resolve the related symptoms like stalling, no-start conditions, and specific internal module error codes (P0601, etc.).
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Almost. The physical installation is plug-and-play. However, as with any ECM replacement on a modern vehicle, a security relearn is necessary to allow the car to start. This procedure does not require special tools and can be done in your driveway.
Where is the ECM located on my 2014 Chevy Sonic?
On the 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic, the Engine Control Module (ECM) is typically mounted in the engine compartment, on the driver’s side near the firewall or battery tray.
What if my original part number isn’t 12670335?
This module is a compatible replacement for several part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, and 12643636. As long as your original part number is in our cross-reference list, this module will work for your vehicle.