0 281 013 218 | Genuine GM® Engine Control Module Assembly

1. Fuel Management

   • Controls how much fuel is injected into the engine cylinders.

   • Adjusts fuel delivery based on engine load, speed, and temperature for efficiency.

2. Ignition Timing

   • Determines the exact timing to spark the fuel-air mixture in each cylinder.

   • Helps maximize power while minimizing engine knock.

3. Air-Fuel Ratio Control

   • Monitors oxygen sensors and adjusts the mix of air and fuel for efficient combustion.

   • Ensures compliance with emissions standards.

4. Idle Speed Control

   • Maintains stable engine idle under various conditions (AC on, electrical load, etc.).

5. Emissions Control

   • Works with catalytic converters, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), and other systems to reduce harmful emissions.

6. Diagnostic and Monitoring

   • Continuously monitors engine sensors (temperature, pressure, oxygen, throttle position, etc.).

   • Stores error codes (Check Engine Light) when a problem is detected.

7. Integration with Other Systems

   • Communicates with transmission control modules, ABS, traction control, and other vehicle systems.

1. Check Engine Light (CEL) Stays On or Flashes

• The ECM may trigger random or multiple trouble codes.

• Sometimes the light comes on even when nothing is actually wrong with the engine.

2. Engine Performance Problems

• Rough idle

• Misfires

• Hesitation or poor acceleration

• Reduced power

• Poor fuel economy

Because the ECM controls fuel and ignition timing, any failure affects engine behavior.

3. Hard Starting or No-Start Condition

• The engine may crank but not start if the ECM fails to send correct signals to the fuel injectors or ignition system.

• Sometimes the car starts intermittently.

4. Stalling or Sudden Shutdown

• Engine may shut off while driving or stall at idle.

• Often caused by ECM losing communication or sending incorrect fuel/spark signals.

5. Transmission Problems

(If the ECM communicates with the TCM)

• Hard shifts, delayed shifts, or staying stuck in one gear.

• Transmission warning light may come on.

6. Poor or Incorrect Sensor Readings

• ECM may misinterpret sensor signals, leading to:

  • Incorrect air-fuel ratio

  • Wrong timing adjustments

  • Unstable engine performance

Sometimes the sensors are fine—the ECM is the issue.

7. Failed Emissions or Unusual Exhaust Smoke

• A failing ECM may run the engine too rich or too lean.

• This can result in black smoke, rough running, or emission test failure.

8. Electrical Problems or Communication Errors

• Random dashboard lights

• Inconsistent or lost communication with OBD-II scan tools

• Modules not responding

These are signs the ECM’s internal circuits may be failing.