Restore Peak Performance to Your Chevrolet Spark
As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can turn a reliable car into a source of constant frustration. If your 2014-2015 Chevrolet Spark is experiencing baffling issues like stalling, erratic idling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or a complete no-start condition, the problem often traces back to this critical component. The ECM is the brain of your vehicle, managing everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shifts and emissions. When it falters, the entire system suffers.
This isn’t just another part; it’s a comprehensive solution. We offer a dependable replacement Engine Control Module, part number 22819494, that arrives at your door fully programmed to your specific vehicle. Before we ship, we use your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This vital step eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming, saving you significant time and money. By installing our pre-programmed 2014-2015 Spark ECM, you are not just replacing a faulty part—you are restoring your vehicle’s operational integrity with a component that is ready for immediate installation.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Intermittent Stall
I recall a 2014 Spark that came into the bay with an issue that was driving the owner crazy: it would stall randomly at stoplights, but not every time. No specific trouble codes were stored, making it a diagnostic headache. We checked fuel pressure, sensors, and wiring—all seemed fine. On a hunch, I monitored the live data stream from the ECM and noticed that right before a stall, the injector pulse width data would go haywire. It was a classic sign of internal ECM failure. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed module like this one, and the problem was solved instantly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the ‘brain’ itself is the source of the ghost-in-the-machine problems.
Is Your Vehicle Displaying These Symptoms?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough or inconsistent engine idling.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling, especially when coming to a stop or at low speeds.
- ✔ Noticeable hesitation or loss of power during acceleration.
- ✔ Automatic transmission shifting erratically or harshly.
- ✔ No communication with the ECM when using a diagnostic scan tool.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Spark is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Following these steps will help ensure a smooth installation process. Always consult a service manual for your specific vehicle’s torque specs and procedures.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent any accidental reconnection.
- Locate the ECM: On most GM compacts like the Spark, the ECM is typically found in the engine bay, often mounted to the firewall or an inner fender. It’s a silver metal box with large electrical connectors.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware holding the old ECM in place and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed 2014-2015 Spark ECM in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the electrical connectors back into the new ECM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedure: In many cases, a security or crank-position sensor relearn procedure is required. This can often be done without special tools by following a specific key-on/key-off sequence (typically turning the key to ‘ON’ for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, repeated three times). Check your vehicle’s service information for the exact procedure.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 22819494 and also interchanges with part numbers 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, and 12692200. It is guaranteed to fit the following vehicles, provided the options match. Please verify your original part number before ordering.
ENCORE 13-16 (1.4L)
Cadillac:
ELR 14-16
Chevrolet:
CRUZE 12-16 (Gasoline)
SILVERADO 2500/3500 PICKUP 12-16 (6.0L)
SONIC 12-16
SPARK 14-15 (Gasoline Model)
SUBURBAN 3500 16
TRAX 13-16
VOLT 11-15
EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN 16 (4.8L, 6.0L)
GMC:
SIERRA 2500/3500 PICKUP 12-16 (6.0L)
SIERRA DENALI 2500/3500 12-16 (6.0L)
SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN 16 (4.8L, 6.0L)
Choosing this professionally programmed 2014-2015 Spark ECM is the most effective way to solve complex electronic issues and get your car running like new again. Place your order today and provide your VIN to get the right part, programmed and ready to install.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) allows us to program the Engine Control Module with the exact software and calibrations specific to your car’s factory options, engine, and transmission. This ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box.
Is this part difficult to install myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills and tools, the physical swap is straightforward. The most critical part is ensuring the battery is disconnected and performing any necessary security relearn procedures after installation, which can usually be done without a scan tool.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by an internal failure of the original ECM (e.g., codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part is the correct fix. However, it’s always best to have the codes professionally diagnosed to rule out other issues like faulty sensors or wiring.
Is this a ‘plug-and-play’ part?
Because we pre-program it to your VIN, it’s as close to plug-and-play as you can get. Unlike a module from a salvage yard or a non-programmed unit, ours does not require a trip to the dealer for initial flashing. Some vehicles may still require a simple security/theft-deterrent relearn procedure after installation.
What happens if I don’t provide my VIN?
We cannot ship the module without your VIN. The programming is essential for the part to function in your vehicle. After your purchase, we will contact you to request the VIN to ensure we can complete your order correctly and promptly.