GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine control module (ECM) service should normally consist of either ECM replacement or electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) programming. If the diagnostic procedures require ECM replacement, inspect the ECM first to see if the correct part is being used.

Notice: 

   • Turn the ignition OFF when installing or removing the control module connectors and disconnecting or reconnecting the power to the control module (battery cable, powertrain control module (PCM)/engine control module (ECM)/transaxle control module (TCM) pigtail, control module fuse, jumper cables, etc.) in order to prevent internal control module damage.
   • Control module damage may result when the metal case contacts battery voltage. DO NOT contact the control module metal case with battery voltage when servicing a control module, using battery booster cables, or when charging the vehicle battery.
   • In order to prevent any possible electrostatic discharge damage to the control module, do no touch the connector pins or the soldered components on the circuit board.
   • Remove any debris from around the control module connector surfaces before servicing the control module. Inspect the control module connector gaskets when diagnosing or replacing the control module. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminant intrusion into the control module.
   • The replacement control module must be programmed.

Important: It is necessary to record the remaining engine oil life. If the replacement module is not programed with the remaining engine oil life, the engine oil life will default to 100 percent. If the replacement module is not programmed with the remaining engine oil life, the engine oil will need to be changed at 5000 km (3,000 mi) from the last engine oil change.

Removal Procedure

  1. Using a scan tool, retrieve the percentage of remaining engine oil. Record the remaining engine oil life.
  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.

  3. Object Number: 1553552  Size: SH
  4. Remove the connector protection assurance (CPA) locks on each ECM electrical connector, then move the connector lock levers to the unlock position.
  5. Disconnect the ECM electrical connectors.

  6. Object Number: 1553550  Size: SH
  7. Remove the two screws (1) securing the ECM to the mounting bracket
  8. Remove the ECM .

Installation Procedure

    Notice: Do not touch the connector pins or soldered components on the circuit board in order to prevent possible electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to the PCM.

    Notice: In order to prevent internal damage to the PCM, the ignition must be OFF when disconnecting or reconnecting the PCM connector.


    Object Number: 1553550  Size: SH
  1. Install the ECM to the mounting bracket.
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the 2 screws (1) securing the ECM to the mounting bracket
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the ECM fasteners to 1-3 N·m


    Object Number: 1553552  Size: SH
  5. Install the ECM electrical connectors.
  6. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection in Engine Electrical.
  7. If a new ECM is being installed, program the ECM. Refer to Service Programming System (SPS) in Programming and Setup.
  8. Whenever the ECM or the negative battery cables have been disconnected, the crankshaft variation procedure must be performed. Refer to Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn .