Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Replace and Program Control Module
To program a replacement K20 Engine Control Module (ECM), perform the following procedure:
Instances may occur where data is not transferred during the Prepare Control Module for Removal Function
- Capture a GDS2 Report of the following scan tool parameters
- Air Cleaner Life Remaining
- Engine Oil Life Remaining
- Fuel Filter Life Remaining
- Fuel injector flow identifiers
- Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Before removing the old control module, perform the SPS function Prepare Control Module for Removal, if available.NOTE:
The Prepare Control Module for Removal function can only be performed when communication with the old control module is still possible.
- Replace the ECM.
- Perform one of the following SPS Programming functions:NOTE:
If both controller options below are listed, select K20/K71 Engine and Transmission Control Modules.
- K20/K71 Engine and Transmission Control Modules and follow the on-screen instructions.
- K20 Engine Control Module and follow on-screen instructions.
- Clear the DTCs after completing the Programming procedure.
- If equipped, perform the SPS function Immobilizer Learn and follow the on-screen instructions. Refer to Immobilizer System Component Programming .
- Perform the following SPS function:
- SetupNOTE:
If both controller options below are listed, select K20 Engine Control Module.
- K20/K71 Engine and Transmission Control Modules and follow the on-screen instructions.
- K20 Engine Control Module and follow on-screen instructions.
- Configuration - If applicable
- Setup
- If equipped, perform the Fuel Pressure Regulator Learn via GDS2, Engine Control Module, Configuration/Reset Functions, Learn Functions.
- Clear DTCs.
Resetting of the engine air filter life using the Engine Air Filter Monitor Setup function in the scan tool may be required if it was not transferred during the prepare control module for removal process. Refer to: GM Air Filter Life System Resetting
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.