Restore Your Truck’s Core Performance and Reliability
Is your 2015-2016 Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon running rough, stalling unexpectedly, or throwing a persistent Check Engine Light? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. Often, the culprit isn’t a simple sensor but the very brain of your engine: the Engine Control Module (ECM). A failing ECM can cause a cascade of frustrating problems, from poor fuel economy and erratic shifting to a complete no-start condition, leaving you stranded. Don’t let a faulty computer dictate your truck’s health.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We provide a genuine GM Engine Control Module, part number 12656993, that arrives at your doorstep fully programmed to your specific vehicle. Using your truck’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), we flash the module with the latest, most stable software updates directly from GM. This critical step ensures seamless communication with all other vehicle systems and eliminates the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming. You get a reliable, plug-and-play fix that restores your engine’s intended performance and efficiency.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A few months back, a 2015 Colorado with the 3.6L V6 came into my shop. The owner was at his wit’s end. The truck had an intermittent hard start, would sometimes hesitate under acceleration, and the transmission felt like it was shifting at the wrong times. He’d already replaced a couple of sensors with no luck. The scan tool showed a few communication codes (U-codes) but also a P0606 (ECM Processor Fault) that would come and go. After verifying the wiring and grounds were solid—a crucial first step—we zeroed in on the ECM. Internal processor faults are a dead giveaway. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a failing 2015-2016 Colorado ECM can mimic other problems.
Is Your Truck Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with codes like P0601, P0606, or other U-series communication codes.
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Unexplained drops in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine stalls, stumbles, or misfires intermittently.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Loss of communication with your scan tool.
- ✔ Other warning lights (ABS, Traction Control) illuminating without a clear cause.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Colorado or Canyon is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The key is taking your time and following the proper procedure. This 2015-2016 Colorado ECM is designed for a direct fit.
- 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 the 2015-2016 Colorado/Canyon, the ECM is typically mounted on the right-hand side (passenger side) of the firewall in the engine bay.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and disconnect all electrical wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the old ECM to the firewall. Remove the old module from the vehicle.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the wiring harness connectors into the new ECM until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This is a vital step. You will need to perform the vehicle’s anti-theft security relearn procedure. This can typically be done without special tools by cycling the key in the ignition. A quick search for your specific model’s “VATS relearn procedure” will provide the exact steps. This syncs the new ECM with your vehicle’s security system.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a direct replacement for part number 12656993 and is compatible with a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or match your vehicle from the list below. Remember to provide your VIN upon purchase for correct programming.
CANYON 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.6L
CORVETTE 14-16 Electronic Control Module; (RH cowl under dash)
CAMARO 16 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L
ATS 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), ID 12656993
ATS 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.6L
CTS 14-15 Electronic Control Module; Sdn, 3.6L
CTS 16 Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3) or 6.2L
XTS 14-16 Electronic Control Module; (3.6L), VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 14-16 (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 14-16 (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA DENALI 1500 14-16 (LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SUBURBAN 1500 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON XL 1500 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
ESCALADE & ESV 15-16 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)