Restore Your Chevrolet’s Brain and Get Back on the Road with Confidence
Is your 2013-2016 Chevrolet Trax suddenly acting up? Maybe it’s a hard start in the morning, a frustrating check engine light that won’t go away, or a noticeable drop in fuel economy and performance. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re often symptoms of a failing Engine Control Module (ECM), the central computer that manages everything from fuel injection and ignition timing to transmission shifts. When the ECM falters, the entire vehicle’s performance suffers, leaving you with an unreliable and inefficient ride. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless drivers replace sensor after sensor, only to find the root cause was the ECM all along.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, hassle-free solution. We take the biggest headache out of the repair process: programming. Each 2013-2016 Trax ECM is professionally flashed with the latest official GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s unique VIN. This means you get a module that is truly plug-and-play, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You’re not just buying a part; you’re buying a straightforward fix that restores your vehicle’s factory-specified performance and reliability.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Sonic That Wouldn’t Settle Down
A customer brought in a 2014 Chevy Sonic with the 1.4L engine—the same family as many Trax models. The complaint was intermittent stalling at stoplights and a persistent P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault) code. The previous shop had already replaced the throttle body and mass airflow sensor to no avail. After confirming power and grounds to the ECM were solid, it was clear the module itself was internally faulty. The intermittent nature of the fault was classic ECM failure. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, performed the simple key relearn procedure, and the car ran perfectly. The customer was thrilled to have a reliable car back without spending a fortune at the dealer. This is the exact kind of definitive fix our pre-programmed 2013-2016 Trax ECM provides.
Is Your Trax Showing These ECM Failure Signs?
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or U0100.
- âś” The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage.
- âś” The engine runs rough, misfires, or stalls unexpectedly.
- âś” Automatic transmission shifts erratically or harshly.
- âś” Failure to pass state emissions testing.
- âś” Other seemingly unrelated electronic issues.
A Straightforward Guide to Your Trax ECM Installation
- âś” Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any electronic work.
- âś” Locate the ECM: On the Chevrolet Trax, the Engine Control Module is typically located in the engine bay. Consult a vehicle-specific repair manual if you are unsure.
- âś” Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Then, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- âś” Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket. Reconnect the wiring harness connectors, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- âś” Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- âś” Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a simple key relearn procedure. This can typically be done by turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new ECM.
- âś” Start the Vehicle: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Check for any warning lights and take it for a test drive to confirm that all issues are resolved.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Vehicle
This Engine Control Module is a direct-fit replacement for part number 22819494 and interchanges with several other part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, and more. It is confirmed to fit a wide range of GM vehicles, including but not limited to:
- Chevrolet Trax: 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
- Chevrolet Cruze: 2012-2016 (various options)
- Chevrolet Sonic: 2012-2016 (various options)
- Buick Encore: 2013-2016 (1.4L)
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500: 2012-2016 (6.0L)
- GMC Sierra 2500/3500: 2012-2016 (6.0L)
- Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana Vans: 2016 (4.8L, 6.0L)
- …and many other models listed in the fitment data. Please verify your part number to ensure compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming after I receive this ECM?
No! This ECM arrives pre-programmed to your vehicle’s VIN. The only procedure required is a simple security relearn, which you can do yourself in about 30 minutes without any special tools.
How do I provide 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 receive your VIN to perform the programming.
Will this fix my car’s specific problem?
This module is a direct solution for a faulty ECM. If your vehicle has been properly diagnosed with a bad engine computer (e.g., codes like P0601, P0606), this part will resolve those issues. It will not fix problems caused by other faulty components like bad sensors or wiring.
Is this an original GM part?
This is a high-quality replacement module that is programmed using official GM software updates. It’s designed to meet or exceed original equipment specifications for a reliable, long-lasting repair.
What if my original part number is not 22819494?
This module is compatible with a range of part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, and others. Please check the compatibility list or contact us with your part number to confirm fitment.