Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport, or another compatible GM vehicle, giving you headaches? If you’re dealing with frustrating issues like a persistent Check Engine Light, poor fuel economy, stalling, or a no-start condition, the problem often points directly to a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As the ‘brain’ of your vehicle, the ECM manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifting. When it falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a serious reliability issue. In my 20+ years of diagnostics, I’ve seen countless drivers replace sensor after sensor, only to find the root cause was the ECM all along.
This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12637106, is the definitive solution. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair by programming the module specifically to your vehicle’s VIN before it ships. This means it arrives at your door with the latest GM software updates, ready for a straightforward installation. You get a reliable fix that restores your vehicle’s factory-specified operation without the exorbitant cost and scheduling delays of a dealership visit.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2012 Impala that came into my bay with a collection of bizarre, intermittent problems. The owner was frustrated—one day it would run perfectly, the next it would hesitate and throw random communication codes (U-codes). We checked the wiring harnesses and grounds, which all looked solid. After hours of chasing what seemed like a ghost, we focused on the ECM. On the surface, it looked fine. But by monitoring live data streams, we saw the processor was occasionally dropping sensor readings for milliseconds at a time—enough to cause a stumble but not always long enough to set a specific sensor code. Swapping in a correctly programmed ECM solved every single issue instantly. It’s a classic case I’ve seen on dozens of these platforms; a failing processor can cause symptoms that lead you down a dozen wrong paths.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM/PCM)
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel mileage
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or hesitating during acceleration
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start
- ✔ Communication issues with diagnostic scan tools
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on these vehicles is a job many DIYers can handle. Our pre-programming service eliminates the most complex step. Follow this general guide for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2012 Captiva Sport, the ECM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) of the engine compartment, often mounted near the air filter housing or on the firewall. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the exact location.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical wiring harnesses and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or bent pins.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the mounting hardware, as you will reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket using the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn (If Necessary): While our programming handles the critical functions, some vehicles may require a security or crank-sensor relearn procedure. This can often be done without a special tool by following a specific key-cycle sequence found in service manuals or online forums for your model.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This ECM 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 match your part number or vehicle from the list below to ensure proper fitment:
Fits models including, but not limited to:
- Buick Allure / LaCrosse (2010-2011) with 2.4L or 3.0L engines
- Buick Regal (2011)
- Cadillac CTS (2010-2012) with 3.0L or 3.6L engines
- Cadillac SRX (2010-2011) with 3.0L engine
- Chevrolet Camaro (2012) with 3.6L engine
- Chevrolet Captiva Sport (2012)
- Chevrolet Equinox (2010-2011)
- Chevrolet Impala (2012)
- Chevrolet Orlando (2012-2013)
- GMC Terrain (2010-2011)
- Saab 9-5 (2010-2011) with 2.0L engine
IMPORTANT: After purchasing, please provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) so we can program the module for your specific vehicle before shipment. This ensures a seamless installation and proper function.
Do I need to do any additional programming?
Do I need to do any additional programming?
No. We flash the module with the latest GM software using your VIN before we ship it. In most cases, it is a plug-and-play installation. Some vehicles may require a simple key-cycle security relearn procedure, which does not require a scan tool.
Is this a new or used part?
This is a high-quality, fully tested recycled OEM part. Each module is inspected and programmed by our expert technicians to ensure it meets or exceeds original factory standards for performance and reliability.
Will this fix my specific problem?
This module corrects issues directly caused by a faulty ECM, such as internal processor errors (P0601, P0606), no-start conditions, and erratic engine behavior. While it is a common failure point, we always recommend a proper diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to confirm the ECM is the cause of your troubles before ordering.
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. It will be a long number, often beginning with ’12’ on these GM models. Matching this number to our list ensures compatibility.