Is Your GM Vehicle Running Rough, Stalling, or Showing a Check Engine Light?
As a mechanic with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen countless vehicles sidelined by a failing Engine Control Module (ECM). A faulty ECM can cause a cascade of frustrating issues, from poor fuel economy and hesitation to a complete no-start condition, leaving you stranded. If your Savana, Silverado, Sierra, or other compatible GM vehicle is experiencing these symptoms, you’ve likely pinpointed the problem: the engine’s brain needs to be replaced.
The Smart Solution: A VIN-Programmed ECM Ready for Installation
Forget the hassle and high cost of a dealership visit. This ECM, part number 12668986 (also interchangeable with 12692201), is the direct, reliable solution you need. We take the guesswork and complexity out of the repair. Before we ship, we program the module with your vehicle’s specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and load the latest, most stable software updates from GM. This ensures perfect communication between the ECM and all other systems in your vehicle, right out of the box.
Real-World Diagnostics: A Story from My Shop
“A customer’s 2018 Sierra 2500, which uses this exact ECM, was towed in last month. It had a no-start condition and multiple communication error codes. Another shop had already quoted him for a new ECM. Before replacing the part, I did a 10-minute check of the basics. I found the main ground connection from the ECM harness to the engine block was corroded and loose. After cleaning the connection point and tightening the bolt, the truck fired right up and all the codes cleared. It’s a critical reminder: always inspect and clean the ECM’s main power and ground connections before condemning the module. A little corrosion can mimic a complete computer failure, and checking it first can save you hundreds of dollars.”
Key Benefits of This Pre-Programmed 2017-2019 Savana 3500 ECM
- โ VIN-Specific Programming: We flash the module to your exact vehicle, ensuring seamless integration and performance.
- โ Latest GM Software: Your new ECM arrives with all the newest factory updates for improved efficiency and reliability.
- โ Eliminate Dealer Programming: This module is prepared for installation upon arrival, saving you a costly and time-consuming trip to the dealership.
- โ Solve Common Engine Problems: A direct fix for issues like Check Engine Lights (CEL), rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, and communication errors.
Simple, Straightforward Installation Guide
Replacing your ECM is a manageable job for a confident DIYer. Follow these steps for a successful installation:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the ECM: On most compatible trucks and SUVs (like the Silverado, Sierra, and Suburban), the ECM is located in the front of the engine compartment on the driver’s side, often near the battery or air filter box.
- Disconnect the Old Module: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out. Be gentle to avoid damaging the pins or wiring. Then, unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New ECM: Bolt the new module into place. Firmly reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click and lock securely.
- Reconnect Power: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Final Steps: Turn the key to the ‘ON’ position (without starting the engine) for 10-15 seconds to allow the systems to initialize. Your vehicle is now ready to start. In some rare cases, an idle relearn or security relearn procedure may be needed, which can typically be found in your owner’s manual or online.
Guaranteed Fitment for Your Vehicle
This Engine Control Module is a confirmed fit for the following vehicles and options. Please provide your VIN upon purchase to ensure we send the correctly programmed unit for your specific application.
- 2017-2019 SAVANA 3500
- 2017-2018 SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP: 6.0L Engine
- 2017-2018 SIERRA 2500 PICKUP: 6.0L Engine
- 2017 SUBURBAN 3500
- 2017-2018 SONIC
- 2017-2018 ENCORE: 1.4L Engine (VIN B, 8th digit, opt LUV)