Restore Peak Performance to Your C7 Corvette
Is your 2017 Corvette suffering from baffling electrical problems, a sudden no-start condition, or erratic engine behavior? As a technician with over two decades of diagnostic experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a failing Engine Control Module (ECM) can bring even the most powerful vehicles to a standstill. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a critical failure that compromises your car’s performance and reliability. This listing is for a direct-replacement 2017 Corvette Engine Control Module, part number 12678815, that arrives at your door programmed with the latest GM software specific to your vehicle’s VIN.
We take the guesswork and the expensive dealership trip out of the equation. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after your purchase, and our experts will flash this module for you. This ensures that all factory calibrations are perfectly matched to your car’s specific options, restoring the precise engine management your Corvette demands.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
I recently had a 2017 Corvette in the bay with a frustrating intermittent no-start. The owner had already replaced the battery and starter. Scans showed a loss of communication with the ECM (U0100) but only sporadically. After tracing the wiring and checking grounds, we determined the ECM’s internal processor was failing under certain temperature conditions. Instead of a costly and time-consuming diagnostic path at the dealer, we installed one of our VIN-programmed modules. After performing the security relearn, the car started flawlessly and has been reliable ever since. This solution saved the customer hundreds in diagnostic labor and programming fees.
Is Your Corvette’s ECM Failing?
A faulty engine computer can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. Here are some of the most common symptoms I’ve diagnosed that point directly to a bad ECM:
- ✔ Vehicle will not start or has a crank-no-start condition.
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with communication-related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) like U0100, U0101.
- ✔ Internal module failure codes, such as P0601, P0606, or P062B.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy or engine performance.
- ✔ Transmission shifting issues or other modules reporting a loss of communication with the ECM.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Corvette is a manageable job for an experienced DIYer or any professional technician. For the C7 Corvette, the module is located in the passenger-side cowl area, under the dash.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before beginning any work on the electrical system.
- Locate the Module: On the 2017 Corvette, you will need to access the area under the passenger-side dashboard, near the cowl/firewall, to find the original ECM.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Be gentle with the locking tabs, as they can become brittle over time. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New ECM: Mount the new, pre-programmed module in the same location and securely fasten it. Reconnect all electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedures: This is the most critical step. The vehicle will NOT start until a Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) relearn is completed using a GM-compatible scan tool with access to TIS2Web or Techline Connect. Additional procedures like a Crankshaft Variation Relearn may also be required. This is the responsibility of the installer.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This engine control module is a guaranteed fit for a wide range of GM performance cars, trucks, and SUVs. It is a direct replacement for part numbers 12692068, 12704476, 12686382, 12674052, 12674472, and 12678815. Please confirm your vehicle is on the list below:
- ATS 2017: Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.6L, VIN Y (8th digit, opt LF4)
- Corvette 2017: Electronic Control Module; (RH cowl under dash)
- CTS 2017: Electronic Control Module; 6.2L (supercharged)
- CTS 2017: Electronic Control Module; 3.6L, VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3, twin turbo)
- Escalade & Escalade ESV 2017: Electronic Control Module; (engine compartment)
- Sierra 1500 & Silverado 1500 Pickup 2016: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12674472
- Sierra 1500, Sierra Denali 1500, & Silverado 1500 Pickup 2017: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
- Sierra 1500, Sierra Denali 1500, & Silverado 1500 Pickup 2018: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12686382
- Suburban 1500 2017: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
- Tahoe 2017: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
- XTS 2017: Electronic Control Module; (3.6L), VIN 8 (8th digit, opt LF3)
- Yukon & Yukon XL 1500 2017: Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to provide my VIN?
Your VIN is essential for us to program the module with the exact software and calibrations your specific vehicle requires from the factory. This ensures proper engine function, transmission operation, and compatibility with other systems.
What is a ‘theft relearn’ and why is it required?
The theft relearn, or Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) relearn, is a security procedure that syncs the new ECM to your car’s immobilizer system and keys. Without this step, the vehicle’s security system will prevent the engine from starting. This procedure requires a professional scan tool with GM software access (like TIS2Web/Techline Connect).
Can I perform the theft relearn myself?
Unless you are a professional technician or an advanced DIYer with access to GM’s programming software and a compatible J2534 interface, you will need to have a qualified repair shop perform this procedure after you install the part.
Is this module difficult to install?
The physical replacement of the module is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills. The main challenge is the electronic relearn procedure required after installation. Please be prepared to have this service completed by a professional.
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 this part will resolve the issue once installed and programmed correctly. However, it’s always best to have a proper diagnosis to confirm the ECM is the root cause of your problem.