If your 2016 Savana 2500 work van is suddenly stalling, running rough, or showing a persistent Check Engine Light, the problem often points directly to a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty ECM can bring a reliable workhorse to a dead stop, costing you time and money. This isn’t just a part; it’s the central computer of your vehicle, and when it malfunctions, nothing works as it should. This replacement ECM is the dependable, straightforward solution to get your van back in service without the headaches and high costs of a dealership visit.
The biggest challenge with ECM replacement has always been the programming. Historically, you’d have to buy the part, install it, and then tow your vehicle to a dealer for expensive flashing. We’ve eliminated that step entirely. When you purchase this module, we will flash it with the latest official GM software updates, specifically calibrated to your van’s unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It arrives at your door ready for installation, turning a complex, multi-day repair into a job you can handle in your own garage or bay.
Signs Your Van’s Brain is Failing
- ✔ Check Engine Light: The most obvious sign, often with codes like P0601, P0606 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error), or various communication codes (U-codes).
- ✔ Engine Performance Issues: Unexplained stalling, rough idling, misfires, or a sudden drop in fuel economy. Your engine just doesn’t feel right.
- ✔ No-Start Condition: The engine cranks but refuses to start, even with a good battery and fuel supply. The ECM may not be commanding the fuel injectors or ignition coils to fire.
- ✔ Transmission Problems: Harsh or erratic shifting, as the ECM works in tandem with the Transmission Control Module (TCM) to ensure smooth gear changes.
- ✔ Failure to Communicate: Your diagnostic scan tool can’t connect to the ECM, indicating a total internal failure.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Intermittent Gremlin
A local contractor brought his 2016 Savana 2500 into my shop with a frustrating problem: it would randomly stall at traffic lights, but only after it was fully warmed up. There were no consistent trouble codes, just a history of random communication faults. We checked everything—fuel pressure, wiring harnesses, grounds. After hours of diagnostics, we hooked up a scope and saw the 5-volt reference signal from the ECM intermittently dropping out. It was a classic case of internal component failure due to heat soak. We replaced it with a VIN-programmed module like this one, and the van was back on the job site the next day. The owner was thrilled to avoid a week of downtime waiting on a dealership appointment.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
- ✔ Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post to prevent accidental reconnection.
- ✔ Locate the ECM: On the 2016 Savana 2500, the ECM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment.
- ✔ Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the wiring harness connectors from the old ECM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damaged pins.
- ✔ Remove Old Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will reuse it.
- ✔ Install New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM onto the bracket and secure it with the original bolts.
- ✔ Reconnect and Secure: Plug the wiring harnesses firmly into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- ✔ Final Step – Security Relearn: You may need to perform a simple security relearn procedure. Typically, this involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times before starting the engine. This allows the vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new ECM.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module is a direct replacement for part number 22819494 and is interchangeable with several other part numbers, including 12668866, 12668994, 12643636, 12663405, 12670335, and 12692200. It is confirmed to fit a wide range of GM vehicles, including but not limited to:
- ✔ 2016 Savana/Express 2500 & 3500 Vans (with 4.8L or 6.0L engines)
- ✔ 2012-2016 Silverado/Sierra 2500 & 3500 Pickups (with 6.0L engines)
- ✔ 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt
- ✔ 2012-2016 Chevrolet Sonic (with 1.4L engine)
- ✔ 2012-2016 Chevrolet Cruze
- ✔ 2013-2016 Buick Encore & Chevrolet Trax (with 1.4L engine)
- ✔ …and many others. Please verify your part number or contact us with your VIN to ensure compatibility.