Get Your GM Truck Running Like New Again
Is your 2012-2016 Sierra Denali 2500 acting up? Dealing with a persistent check engine light, rough idling, stalling, or a frustrating no-start condition can bring your work and life to a grinding halt. As the central computer of your vehicle, the Engine Control Module (ECM) is critical for performance, fuel economy, and reliability. When it fails, the symptoms can be confusing and costly to diagnose. This is the definitive solution to get your truck back on the road with confidence.
We offer a dependable, direct-fit replacement 2012-2016 Sierra Denali 2500 ECM that arrives at your door ready for installation. The biggest hurdle in replacing an ECM is the expensive and time-consuming programming required at a dealership. We eliminate that step entirely. Simply provide us with your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash the module with the latest, most stable General Motors software specific to your truck. This ensures optimal performance and can even resolve issues that the original factory software didn’t address.
Case Study: A Tricky Diagnosis
A customer brought in a 2014 Silverado 2500 with the 6.0L engine—a cousin to the Sierra. The complaint was intermittent stalling at stoplights and a check engine light with a U0100 (Lost Communication with ECM/PCM) code that would come and go. We checked all the basics: power, grounds, and the CAN bus network wiring. Everything seemed fine. On a hunch, I gently tapped on the ECM housing with a screwdriver handle while the engine was running. The engine immediately stumbled. This confirmed our suspicion: the ECM had an internal failure, likely a cracked solder joint on the main board, a common issue I’ve seen in dozens of these GM trucks after years of heat cycles and vibration. Replacing it with a pre-programmed unit like this one was the final, successful repair.
Common Signs of a Failing ECM
- ✔ Check Engine Light is on with internal processor fault codes (e.g., P0601, P0606).
- ✔ Loss of communication codes are present (e.g., U0100).
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Unexplained drop in fuel economy.
- ✔ Rough or unstable engine idle.
- ✔ Vehicle stalling for no apparent reason.
- ✔ Transmission shifting problems or failure to shift.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the ECM on your Sierra or Silverado is a job most DIYers can handle in under an hour. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery before starting any electrical work.
- Locate the Module: On most 2012-2016 GM HD trucks, the ECM is located in the front left (driver’s side) of the engine compartment, often near the battery or air filter housing.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully disengage the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
- Remove the Old ECM: Unbolt the mounting hardware holding the old module in place and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM in the same location and secure it with the original hardware.
- Reconnect Everything: Firmly plug the electrical connectors back into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect your battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: In many cases, you will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. This allows the new ECM to sync with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for part number 22819494 and interchanges with several other GM part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, and more. It fits a wide range of GM vehicles. Please confirm your part number or match your vehicle from the list below:
CHEVROLET SONIC (2012-2016)
CHEVROLET TRAX (2013-2016)
CHEVROLET SPARK (2014-2015)
CHEVROLET VOLT (2011-2015)
CHEVROLET EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN (2016) with 4.8L or 6.0L
CHEVROLET SILVERADO 2500/3500 PICKUP (2012-2016) with 6.0L
CHEVROLET SUBURBAN 3500 (2016)
CADILLAC ELR (2014-2016)
BUICK ENCORE (2013-2016)
GMC SAVANA 2500/3500 VAN (2016) with 4.8L or 6.0L
GMC SIERRA 2500/3500 PICKUP (2012-2016) with 6.0L
GMC SIERRA DENALI 2500 (2012-2015) with 6.0L
GMC SIERRA DENALI 3500 (2012-2016) with 6.0L
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get this ECM programmed by a dealer?
Do I need to get this ECM programmed by a dealer?
No. This is the primary benefit of our service. We program the module to your vehicle’s specific VIN before we ship it. It arrives ready for installation, saving you hundreds of dollars in dealership fees.
How do I provide my VIN?
You can add your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to the notes section during checkout. If you forget, we will contact you via email after your purchase to request it. We cannot ship the module until we have your VIN.
What is a ‘security relearn’ and is it difficult?
The security relearn procedure syncs the new ECM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. It is very simple and requires no special tools. The most common method is the ’30-minute relearn,’ which involves cycling the key. We include instructions with your order.
My original ECM has a different part number. Will this still work?
Yes, as long as your original part number is on our cross-reference list (e.g., 12668866, 12643636, etc.). GM often uses multiple part numbers for the same component. Programming to your VIN ensures it functions correctly, regardless of the number on the sticker.
Is this a guaranteed fix for my vehicle’s problems?
This module will correct any issues directly caused by a faulty ECM. While the symptoms we’ve listed are very common for ECM failure, other issues (like bad wiring or failed sensors) can cause similar problems. Proper diagnosis is always recommended.