Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Vehicle
Is your Chevrolet Trax, Cruze, or Sonic running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light? 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 frustrating and hard-to-diagnose issues. This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your engine, and when it falters, everything from fuel economy to transmission shifting can suffer. This replacement Engine Control Module, part number 12670335, is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running reliably again.
The biggest hurdle in replacing an ECM has always been the expensive and time-consuming programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step entirely. Before this module ships, we will professionally flash it with the latest official GM software updates, tailored specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This means it arrives at your door ready for a straightforward installation, saving you time, money, and the headache of coordinating with a service center. This is the most efficient way to install a new 2013-2016 Trax Engine Control Module and restore your vehicle’s factory-specified performance and efficiency.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2014 Chevy Cruze with an intermittent no-start and random misfire codes (P0300) that would appear and disappear. They had already replaced spark plugs, ignition coils, and even a fuel injector with no luck. The vehicle would run fine for days, then suddenly refuse to start. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I noticed communication dropouts with the ECM during the no-start events. This is a classic sign of internal module failure. Instead of a costly diagnostic path, we ordered a VIN-programmed ECM. The installation took less than an hour, and the car fired up instantly. The pre-programming saved my shop time and the customer over $300 in dealer fees. It’s been running perfectly ever since.
Is Your Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
A faulty ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a failing engine computer is a likely culprit:
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) illumination
- ✔ Engine stalling, stuttering, or hesitation during acceleration
- ✔ Complete no-start condition where the engine cranks but won’t fire
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage
- ✔ Failed emissions test
- ✔ Communication error codes like U0100
- ✔ Internal module fault codes such as P0601, P0606, or P060A
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your new 2013-2016 Trax Engine Control Module is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or a quick task for any professional mechanic. Always consult a vehicle-specific repair manual, but here is a general guide:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait a few minutes for the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On most supported models like the Trax, Sonic, or Cruze, the ECM is located in the engine bay, often near the battery or firewall. It’s a metal box with several large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM securely onto the bracket.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn (If Necessary): While the module is programmed, some vehicles require a security or crank-position sensor relearn procedure. This can often be done with a capable scan tool or a specific key-cycling sequence. Check your service manual for details.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This ECM is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles and interchanges with several part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, and more. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility. This module is guaranteed to fit the following models with specified options:
Chevrolet: Cruze (2012-2016), Sonic (2012-2016), Spark (2014-2015), Trax (2013-2016), Volt (2011-2015), Express 2500/3500 Vans (2016), Silverado 2500/3500 Pickups (2012-2016), Suburban 3500 (2016)
GMC: Savana 2500/3500 Vans (2016), Sierra 2500/3500 & Denali Pickups (2012-2016)
Ordering a 2013-2016 Trax Engine Control Module from us is more than just buying a part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution that restores your vehicle’s core functionality and your peace of mind.
Do I need to do any programming myself?
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before we ship the part. You just need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN during checkout. The module arrives ready for installation, flashed with the latest GM software for your specific vehicle.
Where do I find my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
For most vehicles, yes. After the physical installation, the vehicle should start and run. However, some GM vehicles may require a security relearn or a crankshaft position sensor relearn, which can be performed with a capable bidirectional scan tool or sometimes a specific key-on/key-off procedure. This is a standard step for this type of repair.
How do I know if my ECM is the problem?
Common signs include a check engine light with internal processor fault codes (like P0601), intermittent stalling, no-start conditions, and erratic engine behavior that isn’t fixed by replacing other parts like sensors or coils. A proper diagnosis by a professional is the best way to be certain.
Will this fix my failed emissions test?
If the emissions failure is caused by an ECM-related fault, such as incorrect fuel mixture calculations or a persistent check engine light, then yes, replacing the module should resolve the issue and allow the onboard readiness monitors to set properly.