Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Truck or SUV
Is your truck or SUV suffering from baffling issues like a persistent check engine light, rough idling, poor fuel mileage, or unpredictable shifting? 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 replacement PCM, service number 12586242, is the definitive solution to bring back the smooth, reliable performance you depend on. We take the guesswork out of the repair by pre-programming the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN with the latest GM software updates. This ensures a seamless installation and gets you back behind the wheel with confidence.
Warning Signs and How to Overcome Them
A failing PCM can manifest in numerous ways. This module is engineered to solve them all, restoring your vehicle’s health and your peace of mind.
- ✔ Eliminate Check Engine Lights: Clears frustrating and persistent diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) like P0601, P0602, P0606, and others related to internal module failure.
- ✔ Smooth Out Engine Performance: Corrects issues such as rough running, engine stumbling, stalling, and hesitation for a stable, powerful drive.
- ✔ Restore Transmission Function: Solves erratic or harsh shifting problems by re-establishing clear communication between the engine and transmission.
- ✔ Improve Fuel Economy: By optimizing engine parameters, this module can help restore your vehicle’s original fuel efficiency.
- ✔ Fix No-Start Conditions: If your vehicle cranks but won’t start due to a lack of fuel or spark command, this PCM can be the key to getting it running again.
A Mechanic’s Story: The Suburban That Wouldn’t Cooperate
A customer brought in his 2004 Suburban 2500 with a story I’ve heard a hundred times. It would randomly stall at red lights and the transmission would slam into gear. He’d already replaced sensors and spent a fortune on diagnostics at another shop. After a quick scan, I saw the dreaded P0601 ‘Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error.’ The original PCM was toast. Instead of a costly trip to the dealer for a new unit and programming fees, we ordered one of these VIN-programmed modules. It arrived ready to go. After a straightforward installation and a 30-minute security relearn, the truck started up and idled perfectly. The test drive was smooth as silk. The customer was thrilled to have his dependable workhorse back without the dealership hassle and expense. That’s the power of a proper, pre-programmed solution.
Guided Installation for a Confident Fix
Installing your new 2004 Suburban 2500 PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Follow these steps to get your vehicle back in top form.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the Old PCM: On most compatible trucks and SUVs (like the Sierra, Silverado, and Suburban), the PCM is located under the battery tray on the driver’s side of the engine bay. You will need to remove the battery to access it.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors from the old module. They have locking tabs that need to be released. Once disconnected, unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it.
- Install the New Module: Seat your new, pre-programmed PCM into the mounting bracket and secure it. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reassemble: Reinstall the battery and its tray, then reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: This step is crucial. Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (don’t start the engine) for 10-15 minutes, or until the security light on the dash turns off. Turn the key ‘OFF’ for 10 seconds. Repeat this process two more times for a total of three cycles. On the fourth attempt, the vehicle should start and run normally.
Tailored Fit for Your Ride
This module is a direct replacement for service number 12586242 and is compatible with a wide range of 2004 GM vehicles. Please verify your part number or service ID to ensure a perfect match. This unit is guaranteed to fit the following models with the specified options:
ENVOY XL/XUV 04 5.3L (next to air box)
ESCALADE, ESV, EXT 04 (LH front under battery), ID 12586242
HUMMER H2 04 (LH front under battery)
ISUZU ASCENDER 04 5.3L (LH engine)
RAINIER 04 5.3L (next to air box)
SIERRA 1500/2500/3500 04 (LH front under battery), gasoline, ID 12586242
SIERRA DENALI 04 (LH front under battery), ID 12586242
SILVERADO 1500/2500/3500 04 (LH front under battery), gasoline, ID 12586242
SSR 04 (next to air box)
SUBURBAN 1500/2500 04 (LH front under battery), ID 12586242
TAHOE 04 (LH front under battery), ID 12586242
TRAILBLAZER EXT 04 5.3L (next to air box)
YUKON & YUKON XL 1500/2500 04 (LH front under battery), ID 12586242
Note: This part directly replaces service numbers 12586242, 19299226, 89017738 and RPO codes YFKD, YFKF, YFKH, YFKJ, YFKX, YFXL, YFXM, YFXN, YFXP, YHTN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to program this computer?
No. We handle all the programming for you before shipment. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and the module will arrive with the latest GM software, ready for installation.
What is the security relearn procedure?
It’s a simple process that syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It involves cycling the ignition key on and off in 10-minute intervals, three times in a row. This procedure is essential for the vehicle to start and run after the new module is installed.
Where is the PCM located on my 2004 Suburban 2500?
For the 2004 Suburban 2500, as well as most trucks in this family (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon), the PCM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, underneath the battery and battery tray.
What is a VIN and where do I find it?
VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number. It’s a unique 17-digit code for your vehicle. You can find it on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side door jamb sticker, or on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Will this module fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal failure of the original PCM (common codes include P0601-P0606), then this replacement part is the correct solution. It’s always recommended to have your vehicle properly diagnosed to ensure the PCM is the root cause of the problem.