Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Workhorse
Is your 2003 Savana 3500 Van suffering from frustrating issues like intermittent stalling, a persistent check engine light, or erratic transmission shifting? As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times, and they often point directly to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects your vehicle’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and safety. Your van is your tool, and you need it to work as hard as you do.
This replacement 2003 Savana 3500 Powertrain Control Module is the definitive solution to get your vehicle running correctly again. The PCM is the electronic brain of your powertrain, controlling everything from fuel mixture and spark timing to transmission shift points. When it fails, the symptoms can be unpredictable and difficult to diagnose. We take the guesswork and hassle out of the repair. Before this module ships, we flash it with the latest official GM software updates, programmed specifically to your vehicle’s VIN. This ensures complete compatibility and optimal function right out of the box, saving you from a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealership for programming.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Work Van
I once had a 2003 Express van in my bay—same platform as the Savana—that was driving its owner crazy. It had an intermittent no-start condition that would only happen after it was driven for an hour and then sat for about 20 minutes. Two other shops had already replaced the battery, starter, and fuel pump to no avail. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner and monitoring live data, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal to the sensors would drop out right before the no-start occurred. This pointed to an internal PCM fault that was sensitive to heat. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM, and the van started reliably every single time. It’s often these tricky electronic faults, not mechanical ones, that sideline a perfectly good work vehicle.
Is Your Van Exhibiting These Telltale Signs?
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light (CEL) illumination
- ✔ Stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0606, or U-series communication codes
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or refusing to start
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
- ✔ Other electronic modules (like the ABS or BCM) not communicating with the PCM
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on your Savana is a manageable job for a DIYer or professional. Since this unit arrives programmed, no special scan tools are required for the initial setup.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental contact.
- Locate the PCM: On the 2003 Savana/Express vans, the PCM is typically located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the rear.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. There are often locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the module from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt the new PCM into place and securely reconnect the electrical harnesses. Ensure they click into place.
- Reconnect Power: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Relearn Procedure: While the module is plug-and-play, some GM vehicles require a security relearn (often called a CASE relearn or Passlock relearn) to allow the vehicle to start. This procedure typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. Consult a service manual for your specific vehicle’s procedure.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 89017733 and is compatible with a wide array of GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to confirm compatibility. This part fits the following models with the specified options:
ASTRO 03 (LH front by battery)
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 03 (RH front engine comp.)
CTS 04 Base, ID 12581565 (RH engine comp.)
CORVETTE 04 ID 12581565 (RH engine comp.)
EXPRESS 1500/2500/3500 VAN 03 (LH rear engine comp.)
S10/S15/SONOMA 03 4.3L (RH front engine comp.)
SAFARI (GMC) 03 (LH front by battery)
SAVANA 1500/2500/3500 VAN 03 (LH rear engine comp.)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 03 4.3L (LH front under battery)
SIERRA 2500/3500 PICKUP 03 8.1L Gasoline (LH front under battery)
SILVERADO 2500/3500 PICKUP 03 8.1L Gasoline (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 2500 03 8.1L (LH front under battery)
YUKON XL 2500 03 8.1L (LH front under battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ‘VIN Programmed’ mean for me?
It means we load your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the latest GM software onto the module before we ship it. This makes the unit ready to install, ensuring it communicates properly with your van’s other systems without requiring a trip to a dealer for expensive programming.
Where is the PCM located on my 2003 Savana 3500 Van?
You will find the Powertrain Control Module in the engine compartment. It’s typically mounted on the driver’s side (LH) towards the rear of the engine bay.
Do I need to do anything special after installing this part?
In many cases, you may need to perform a security relearn procedure, which syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This is a simple procedure that involves cycling the ignition key and can be done without any special tools.
How do I provide you with my VIN?
After you complete your purchase, you will receive instructions on how to send us your 17-digit VIN. We cannot ship the module until we receive this information, as the programming is essential for it to function in your vehicle.
Will this fix my check engine light for code P0601?
Yes, DTC P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) is a very common code indicating a fatal internal fault in the PCM. Replacing the module is the standard and correct repair for this code.
Is this a direct replacement for service number 12581565?
Yes, this module is a direct, compatible replacement for all service numbers listed in the description, including 12581565, 12576106, and 89017733, among others.