Restore Peak Performance and End Electrical Frustrations
Is your 2017 Buick Regal or other GM vehicle acting possessed? Unexplained stalling, a dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree, or a frustrating no-start condition can often point to one culprit: a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can create a cascade of baffling problems. It’s the brain of your engine, and when it malfunctions, the symptoms can be misleading and costly to diagnose.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a direct solution. We provide a genuine GM Engine Control Module, part number 12667002, that arrives at your door programmed specifically for your vehicle. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) during checkout, and our experts will flash the module with the latest, most stable software from General Motors. This critical step ensures seamless communication between the ECM and all other vehicle systems, restoring the precise performance and fuel efficiency you expect from your car.
Common Signs of a Failing Engine Computer
If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty ECM is a highly likely cause. I’ve personally traced these symptoms back to the ECM hundreds of times in my shop, often after other parts were replaced unnecessarily.
- âś” Check Engine Light is on with communication codes (like U0100) or internal processor codes (P0601, P0606).
- âś” Engine cranks but refuses to start.
- âś” Rough idling, stalling, or sudden loss of power while driving.
- âś” Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- âś” Transmission shifting issues or erratic behavior.
- âś” Seemingly unrelated warning lights (ABS, Traction Control) illuminating simultaneously.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2017 Impala that came into the bay on a tow truck. The owner had already replaced the battery and alternator, but the car would intermittently refuse to start and would occasionally stall at red lights. The scanner was showing a confusing mix of communication loss codes across several modules. Instead of chasing ghosts, we went straight to the source. We tested the power and grounds at the ECM connector—they were perfect. That confirmed our suspicion: the ECM itself was failing internally. By installing a pre-programmed module like this one, we had the car running perfectly in under an hour, saving the customer a tow to the dealership and hundreds in diagnostic and programming fees.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Installing your pre-programmed 2017 Regal ECM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or any professional mechanic. Following these steps ensures a safe and successful replacement.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes to allow all system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On the 2017 Buick Regal, the ECM is typically found in the engine compartment on the driver’s side. For other models, its location may vary (e.g., behind the fan shroud on a Traverse).
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the wiring harness connectors. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new, pre-programmed ECM into place. Reconnect the wiring harness connectors, ensuring they click securely into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal and tighten it securely.
- Perform Security Relearn: Your vehicle’s anti-theft system needs to sync with the new ECM. This procedure is simple and requires no special tools. Typically, it involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. Your vehicle will then start.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct-fit replacement for several GM vehicles and interchanges with part numbers 12666070 and 12667189. Please verify your vehicle is on this list before ordering:
- 2017 Buick Enclave: (Located behind fan shroud)
- 2017 Buick LaCrosse
- 2017 Buick Regal: (Located in LH engine compartment)
- 2017 Buick Verano
- 2017 Cadillac XTS: (3.6L, VIN 3, LFX)
- 2017 Chevrolet Caprice: (3.6L)
- 2017 Chevrolet Equinox: (Located in LH engine compartment)
- 2017-2019 Chevrolet Impala
- 2017 Chevrolet Traverse: (Located behind fan shroud)
- 2017 GMC Acadia: (VIN J, Limited, behind fan shroud)
- 2017 GMC Terrain: (Located in LH engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do any programming myself?
No. We handle all the programming before shipping. We use your VIN to load the correct GM-certified software onto the module, so it’s ready for installation when you receive it. The only step you’ll need to perform is the simple key-relearn procedure.
How do I provide my VIN?
You can enter your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN in the designated field during the checkout process. Please double-check it for accuracy to ensure correct programming.
Is this a reliable fix for a P0601 code?
Yes. DTC P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) is a definitive code indicating an internal failure of the ECM. Replacing the module with our pre-programmed unit is the correct and reliable repair for this specific fault.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple process that syncs the new ECM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. While procedures can vary slightly, it typically involves cycling the ignition key on and off in 10-minute intervals three times. We include easy-to-follow instructions with your order.
Will this 2017 Regal ECM fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The ECM works directly with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to manage shift points and behavior. A failing ECM can send bad data, causing poor shifting. If your vehicle has both engine and transmission symptoms, the ECM is a very likely cause.