Is your 2004 GM truck or SUV suffering from frustrating issues like stalling, a persistent check engine light, or a no-start condition? These are classic signs of a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your vehicle. Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. This direct-replacement PCM, service number 12586242, is the definitive solution to restore your vehicle’s performance, reliability, and drivability.
This isn’t just a part in a box. It’s a comprehensive solution that arrives at your door programmed specifically for your vehicle. Upon purchase, simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and our technicians will flash the module with the latest, most stable GM factory software. This critical step ensures that the computer communicates flawlessly with your vehicle’s specific systems and options, eliminating the need for an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
We recently had a 2004 Sierra 1500 in the shop that was driving the owner crazy. It had an intermittent no-start condition and a check engine light with a P0601 ‘Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error’ code. The owner had already replaced the battery and checked the main grounds. After confirming solid power and ground connections to the PCM, we knew the module itself was the culprit. Installing one of these VIN-programmed units was the fix. After a quick 10-minute security relearn procedure, the truck fired up instantly and ran smoother than it had in years. The updated software resolved the glitch, and the customer was back on the road without the hassle of dealer service.
Diagnosing a Failing 2004 Suburban 1500 PCM
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often mimicking other component failures. If you’ve been chasing electrical gremlins or replacing sensors with no success, it’s time to consider the main computer. Look out for these common symptoms:
- ✔️ Persistent Check Engine Light with communication codes (like U0100) or internal processor fault codes (P0601, P0606).
- ✔️ The engine cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔️ Unexplained stalling, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔️ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔️ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔️ The anti-theft or security light stays on or flashes, preventing the engine from starting.
- ✔️ Other modules on the vehicle, like the instrument cluster or ABS, act erratically due to communication loss with the PCM.
Replacing your faulty module with our pre-programmed unit is the most effective way to permanently resolve these issues. This part is a direct fit for a wide range of 2004 GM vehicles, including the Suburban, Tahoe, Silverado, Sierra, Escalade, Envoy, and more. Please verify that your original module carries service number 12586242 or one of the compatible numbers listed (e.g., YFKD, YFKF, 19299226, 89017738) to ensure perfect compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does the PCM do?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the central computer that controls all aspects of your vehicle’s engine and transmission. It takes data from dozens of sensors to manage fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions systems, and transmission shift points to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and low emissions.
Do I need to do anything after installing this module?
While this module comes fully programmed to your VIN, you will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure after installation. This process syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and typically involves turning the key in the ignition for 10-12 minute intervals. Instructions for this are widely available online and do not require special tools.
How do I find my vehicle’s VIN?
Your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be found on your vehicle’s registration, your insurance card, or on the driver’s side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield. Please provide this number accurately to ensure correct programming.
Will this fix my specific problem?
If your vehicle’s issues have been diagnosed as a faulty engine computer, this part is the correct solution. It resolves problems directly caused by a failing PCM, such as internal processor faults, communication errors, and driver circuit failures. It will not fix issues caused by other faulty mechanical or electrical parts on the vehicle.
Which part numbers does this module replace?
This PCM is a direct replacement for service numbers 12586242, 19299226, 89017738 and broadcast codes YFKD, YFKF, YFKH, YFKJ, YFKX, YFXL, YFXM, YFXN, YFXP, and YHTN. Matching one of these numbers ensures a perfect fit and function for your vehicle.