GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

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 5 000 km (3,000 mi) from the last engine oil change.

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1838645  Size: SH
  1. Using a scan tool, retrieve the percentage of remaining engine oil. Record the remaining engine oil life.
  2. Record the preset radio stations.
  3. Turn the ignition OFF.
  4. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
  5. Lift and gently pull the ECM up and out of the retainer on the battery tray.

  6. Object Number: 1838648  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the engine wiring harness electrical connectors (1) from the ECM.
  8. Disconnect the body wiring harness electrical connector (2) from the ECM.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1838648  Size: SH
  1. Connect the engine wiring harness electrical connectors (1) to the ECM.
  2. Connect the body wiring harness electrical connector (2) to the ECM.

  3. Object Number: 1838645  Size: SH
  4. Position the ECM above the retainer in the battery tray and slide the ECM down into the retainer.
  5. Connect the negative battery cable. Refer to Battery Negative Cable Disconnection and Connection.
  6. Reset the clock and preset radio stations.
  7. If a NEW ECM was installed, the ECM must be programmed. Refer to Control Module References.