If your 2010 Sierra 3500 Pickup is experiencing erratic behavior, from a persistent Check Engine Light to frustrating no-start conditions, the root cause is often the Engine Control Module (ECM). As the central computer of your truck, a failing ECM can create a host of problems that seem unrelated, making diagnosis a real headache. I’ve spent countless hours in the shop tracing bizarre electrical gremlins back to this single component. This isn’t just a part; it’s the brain of your vehicle’s operation, and when it falters, your entire truck suffers.
We take the guesswork and dealer-level expense out of the equation. This replacement ECM, part number 12633055 (also fits 12633238), arrives at your door programmed specifically for your truck. Simply provide us with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after purchase, and we’ll flash the module with the latest GM-certified software. This ensures that all factory parameters for your 6.0L engine, transmission, and emissions systems are perfectly aligned, restoring the performance and reliability you depend on.
Case Study: The Ghost in the Sierra’s Wiring
A customer brought in his 2010 Sierra 3500 with an intermittent no-crank, no-start issue that two other shops couldn’t solve. The battery was good, starter checked out, and all fuses were intact. The problem was, it would only happen once or twice a week. After hooking up my scan tool and monitoring live data, I noticed the ECM would occasionally fail to communicate on the CAN bus right before the fault occurred. We swapped in a VIN-programmed ECM, and the problem vanished instantly. It was a classic case of internal circuit board failure, a common issue I’ve seen in these workhorse trucks due to heat cycles and vibration.
Is Your Truck’s ‘Brain’ Failing? Common ECM Symptoms
A faulty ECM can manifest in numerous ways. If you’re a professional technician, you’re likely looking for confirmation before ordering. If you’re a DIYer, see if these symptoms match your experience with your 2010 Sierra 3500 ECM.
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light with communication codes like U0100.
- ✔ Internal processor failure codes, such as P0601, P0606, or P062F.
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Poor fuel economy and a noticeable loss of power.
- ✔ The vehicle cranks but refuses to start.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Cooling fans running constantly or not turning on at all.
Get Your HD Truck Running: A Straightforward ECM Swap Guide
Replacing the ECM on your Sierra is a manageable job for a confident DIYer or a quick task for a seasoned pro. Following these steps ensures a smooth installation.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your truck’s battery to prevent electrical shorts.
- Locate the ECM: On your 2010 Sierra 3500, the ECM is found in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the firewall or inner fender.
- Disconnect the Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module until they click securely into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In most cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘key cycle relearn’) to sync the new ECM with your truck’s anti-theft system. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes. Consult your vehicle’s service information for the exact procedure.
Verified Compatibility for Your GM Vehicle
While this is a direct-fit solution for the 2010 Sierra 3500 ECM, this versatile module is also compatible with a wide range of other GM cars, trucks, and vans. Please verify your part number (12633055 or 12633238) and check the list below to ensure proper fitment for your specific application.
CAPRICE 11 Electronic Control Module; ID 12633055
CAPRICE 12-17 Electronic Control Module; 6.0L
ESCALADE ESV 11-14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 10-14 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
YUKON XL 1500 10-14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 6.0L
CORVETTE 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), 7.0L (VIN E, 8th digit, opt LS7)
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.2L
SIERRA DENALI 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
SUBURBAN 2500 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
YUKON 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
AVALANCHE 1500 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.0L, VIN G (8th digit, opt L96)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 5.3L
AVALANCHE 1500 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
ESCALADE ESV 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
ESCALADE EXT 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 6.0L
CAMARO 10-11 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L
CAMARO 13-15 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L, VIN J (8th digit, opt L99)
CAPRICE 11 Electronic Control Module; ID 12633238
ESCALADE 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 6.0L
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.0L, VIN G (8th digit, opt L96)
SS CAPRICE 14-17 Electronic Control Module
SAVANA 3500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.8L
TAHOE 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option
ESCALADE 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.2L
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.2L
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.0L, VIN G (8th digit, opt L96)
CORVETTE 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), 6.2L, VIN W (8th digit, opt LS3)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.8L
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 6.0L
CAMARO 12 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L, ID 12633055
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.8L
YUKON 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option; ID 12633238
CAMARO 14-15 Electronic Control Module; 7.0L
SAVANA 2500 VAN 10-15 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 4.8L
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 4.8L
SUBURBAN 2500 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
YUKON XL 2500 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
ESCALADE 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.2L, ID 12633238
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 4.8L
SUBURBAN 1500 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
SUBURBAN 1500 11-14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
TAHOE 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option; ID 12633238
TAHOE 14 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 6.0L, VIN G (8th digit, opt L96)
YUKON 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), w/o hybrid option
YUKON XL 2500 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
CAMARO 12 Electronic Control Module; 6.2L, ID 12633238
ESCALADE EXT 10 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), ID 12633238
SAVANA 1500 VAN 10-14 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), 5.3L
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 10-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment), 5.3L
SIERRA DENALI 1500 11-13 Electronic Control Module; (LH front engine compartment)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you need my VIN?
Your VIN is essential for us to program the ECM with the exact software your vehicle requires. This includes specifications for the engine, transmission, tire size, and any factory options. This process ensures the module works seamlessly with your truck right out of the box.
Is this a simple plug-and-play installation?
Almost. The module is pre-programmed, which handles the most complex part. However, after physical installation, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure. This syncs the new ECM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system and is required to start the engine. It’s a simple process that doesn’t require special tools.
Will this fix my Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is caused by an internal ECM failure (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this replacement will solve the problem. However, if the light is on due to a bad sensor or another component, you will still need to fix that underlying issue.
Do I need to send my old ECM back?
No core charge is required for this part. You can keep or responsibly dispose of your old module without needing to send it back to us.
What if my part number is 12633238?
This ECM, part number 12633055, is a fully compatible and interchangeable replacement for part number 12633238. It will function identically once programmed for your vehicle.