Is Your Work Van Unreliable? Get a Permanent Fix.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know that a work van like the 2008 Savana 1500 isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your livelihood. When it starts acting up—stalling at intersections, refusing to start, or throwing a constant Check Engine Light—your entire day gets derailed. The Engine Control Module (ECM), the brain of your vehicle’s engine, is often the culprit behind these frustrating and unpredictable issues. A failing ECM can cause a cascade of problems that seem unrelated, making diagnosis a nightmare for even seasoned mechanics.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We are offering a genuine GM Engine Control Module (interchangeable with part numbers 12612384, 12622141, and 12617568) that arrives at your door fully programmed to your van’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We install the latest GM-certified software, ensuring optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control. This process eliminates the need for expensive dealership programming or specialized scan tools, saving you significant time and money.
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Unreliable Work Van
From the Service Bay: The Case of the Unreliable Work Van
I once had a contractor bring in his ’08 Savana 1500 with a perplexing issue. The van would run fine for days, then suddenly stall and refuse to restart for an hour. He had already replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor, but the problem persisted. No hard codes were stored, just a history of communication loss errors (U-codes). After checking the wiring harness for the third time, I focused on the ECM. On a hunch, I monitored the module’s internal temperature data. Sure enough, once it hit operating temp, the data streams would go haywire right before it stalled. A new, properly programmed ECM solved the problem for good. That’s why for a critical component like the 2008 Savana 1500 ECM, starting with a quality, correctly programmed part is non-negotiable.
Signs Your Van’s Engine Computer is Failing
A faulty ECM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s a strong indicator that your engine computer needs attention. Look out for these symptoms and associated Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs):
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated or flashing
- ✔ Vehicle won’t start or is very difficult to start
- ✔ Intermittent stalling or rough idling
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy
- ✔ Poor engine performance and lack of power
- ✔ Transmission shifting issues or harsh shifts
- ✔ Stored trouble codes such as P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault), or U0100 (Lost Communication With ECM)
Your Step-by-Step ECM Installation Guide
Replacing the 2008 Savana 1500 ECM is a straightforward job for a confident DIYer. On these vans, the module is conveniently located in the left-hand rear of the engine compartment. Follow these steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait 10-15 minutes to allow the system to fully discharge.
- Locate the ECM: Open the hood and find the ECM in the rear of the engine bay on the driver’s side.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the electrical wiring harnesses from the old module. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the mounting hardware that secures the ECM to its bracket. Set the old module aside.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new ECM, ensuring they click securely into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Final Check: Turn the key to the ‘On’ position (without starting the engine) for 10 seconds, then start the vehicle. Your van should now run smoothly with the Check Engine Light off.
Confirmed Vehicle Compatibility List
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your vehicle, year, and engine options below. This part is compatible with part numbers 12612384, 12622141, and 12617568.
AURA 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH firewall), 3.5L
CAPRICE 11 Electronic Control Module; ID 12612384
CORVETTE 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment)
CORVETTE 09 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), Z06
CTS 08 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment), (3.6L), VIN 7 (8th digit), ID 12612384
EQUINOX 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.4L
ESCALADE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
ESCALADE ESV 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
ESCALADE EXT 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.5L
G6 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 3.9L
HUMMER H2 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
IMPALA 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.5L
IMPALA 08 Electronic Control Module; (lower part of air cleaner box), 3.9L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; classic style (emblem in grille), 3.5L
MALIBU 08 Electronic Control Module; new style (emblem in bumper cover), 3.5L
SAVANA 1500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
SAVANA 2500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SAVANA 3500 VAN 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
SIERRA DENALI 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o 4.3L
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 6.0L
SUBURBAN 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SUBURBAN 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
TAHOE 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
TORRENT 08-09 Electronic Control Module; (LH engine compartment), 3.4L
VUE 08-09 Electronic Control Module; 3.5L
YUKON 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option
YUKON XL 1500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
YUKON XL 2500 08 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to get this 2008 Savana 1500 ECM programmed by a dealer?
- No, you don’t! We handle all the programming for you before we ship the part. It arrives ready for installation, saving you hundreds in dealership fees.
- What information do you need from me to program it?
- After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN. We use this to load the correct, most up-to-date GM software for your specific van.
- Is this a difficult part to install myself?
- For most individuals with basic hand tools and some mechanical comfort, this is a very manageable job. It typically involves removing a few bolts and unplugging the electrical connectors. No special tools are required.
- Will this part fix my Check Engine Light?
- If the Check Engine Light is on due to an internal failure of the ECM (like codes P0601 or P0606), then yes, this part will resolve the issue. It’s crucial to ensure the ECM is the actual point of failure before ordering.
- What is the difference between an ECM and a PCM?
- The terms Engine Control Module (ECM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) are often used for the same part. This is the main computer that controls your vehicle’s engine functions.