Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze, or Trax suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a complete no-start condition? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can wreak havoc on a vehicle’s entire system. It’s the brain of your engine, and when it falters, everything from fuel economy to transmission shifting can be affected. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a reliability issue that needs a dependable solution.
This Engine Control Module is the definitive fix for a wide range of GM vehicles. The critical difference with our service is that we handle the programming before it ships. You provide us with your vehicle’s VIN, and we flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This means you get a part that is truly plug-and-play, saving you from the time, cost, and hassle of a dealership visit for programming. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a complete, ready-to-install solution.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Phantom Electrical Gremlin
I remember a 2014 Chevy Sonic that came into my bay with a laundry list of bizarre, intermittent complaints. The owner reported random stalling at stoplights, occasional hard shifting, and a check engine light that would come and go. He’d already replaced the battery and alternator. After hooking up my scan tool, I found a series of communication error codes (U-codes) alongside a history of a P0601 Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error. These symptoms pointed directly to a failing ECM. The internal processor was glitching, sending corrupt data across the vehicle’s network. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a classic case where the core problem was the computer itself, and this part provided a straightforward, permanent fix.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, your engine’s computer is a likely culprit:
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- âś” Vehicle refuses to start or has difficulty starting.
- âś” Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving or idling.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- âś” Poor engine performance, including hesitation or misfires.
- âś” Automatic transmission shifts harshly or erratically.
- âś” Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2012-2016 Sonic Engine Module is a job most DIYers can handle with basic tools. Our pre-programming makes the process simple.
- 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 most compatible vehicles like the Sonic or Cruze, the ECM is found in the engine bay, often near the battery or firewall. It’s a silver 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 old module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, programmed module into place. Firmly reconnect the wiring harnesses, ensuring each plug clicks securely into its socket.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal and tighten it.
- Final Step: Start the vehicle and let it idle for 5-10 minutes. This allows the system to perform an idle relearn procedure and recognize the new module. Your vehicle is now ready to drive.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for a vast array of General Motors vehicles, restoring them to factory specifications. It is compatible with part numbers 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, 22819494, and 12692200. While it is a key component for the 2012-2016 Sonic Engine Module replacement, it also fits:
- âś” Chevrolet Cruze (2012-2016)
- âś” Chevrolet Trax (2013-2016)
- âś” Chevrolet Volt (2011-2015)
- âś” Chevrolet Spark (2014-2015)
- âś” Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana Vans (2016)
- âś” Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 2500/3500 (2012-2016 w/ 6.0L)
- âś” Buick Encore (2013-2016)
- âś” Cadillac ELR (2014-2016)
Please verify your part number or consult the detailed fitment list to ensure this is the correct part for your specific vehicle and options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN, as we use it to program the unit with the correct, latest GM software for your specific car.
Is this part truly plug-and-play?
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN, as we use it to program the unit with the correct, latest GM software for your specific car.
Will this fix my check engine light?
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN, as we use it to program the unit with the correct, latest GM software for your specific car.
How do I find my original part number?
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN, as we use it to program the unit with the correct, latest GM software for your specific car.
Does this module come with a warranty?
What do I need to do after I purchase this module?
After you complete your purchase, you must send us your vehicle’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN, as we use it to program the unit with the correct, latest GM software for your specific car.