Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2012 Camaro or other GM vehicle suffering from frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or poor fuel economy? These are classic signs of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. A faulty ECM can disrupt everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting, making your car unreliable and stressful to drive. This replacement ECM, part number 12616889, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently again.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing ECM can lead to a wild goose chase of replacing perfectly good sensors and parts. This module eliminates the guesswork. We take the hassle and high cost out of the equation by pre-programming this module specifically for your vehicle using your VIN. This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation. You get a reliable, correctly configured part without the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
Common Signs of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained stalling or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Rough idling or engine misfires.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting problems.
- ✔ Issues with other electronic systems controlled by the ECM.
From the Diagnostic Bay
I remember a 2012 Camaro 3.6L that came into the shop with a really tricky intermittent stalling problem. The owner had already replaced the spark plugs, coils, and even the fuel pump based on another shop’s advice, but the issue persisted. No hard codes were stored, just a history of communication loss faults. After hooking up the scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the fuel trim and timing values would suddenly go haywire right before it stalled. This pointed directly to the processor inside the ECM failing under load. We installed one of these pre-programmed modules, and the car ran perfectly. It’s a great example of how having a known-good, correctly programmed 2012 Camaro Engine Control Module is the key to solving complex electronic issues and avoiding unnecessary parts replacement.
Your Straightforward Installation Guide
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- ✔ Locate the ECM: On the 2012 Camaro, the ECM is typically found in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for the exact location on other models (e.g., under the air cleaner bracket on an Impala).
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and disconnect them from the old ECM. Avoid forcing them.
- ✔ Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old ECM to its bracket or the vehicle body. Remove the old unit.
- ✔ Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- ✔ Reconnect and Secure: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly into the new module, ensuring the locking tabs click into place for a secure connection.
- ✔ Power Up: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. A security relearn procedure may be required. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating two more times before starting the engine.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This 2012 Camaro Engine Control Module is a direct replacement for part numbers 12616889, 12630908, 12637106, 12642665, 12650256, and 12651993. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number and application 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
How does the programming process work?
After you complete your purchase, simply provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this to flash the module with the latest official GM software calibration for your specific vehicle, ensuring perfect compatibility.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Yes! Because we program it to your VIN, it eliminates the need for any additional programming by a dealer. In most cases, you will only need to perform a simple security relearn procedure after installation, which can be done without special tools.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by an internal failure of the ECM (like codes P0601 or P0606), this part is the correct fix. It’s always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to ensure the ECM is the root cause of the problem.
Where is the part number on my old ECM?
The part number is printed on a sticker on the case of your current Engine Control Module. You can match it to one of the compatible part numbers listed: 12616889, 12630908, 12637106, 12642665, 12650256, or 12651993.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested recycled OEM part that has been programmed with fresh, vehicle-specific software. It provides OEM performance and reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new dealer part.