Is Your Work Van Sidelined? Get Back on the Job Fast.
There’s nothing more frustrating than a workhorse like your 2018 GMC Savana 2500 being out of commission. When the Engine Control Module (ECM) fails, your business stops. You might be experiencing a range of baffling issues: the engine cranks but won’t start, it stalls unexpectedly, the check engine light is on with a host of communication codes, or you’re getting poor fuel mileage and sluggish performance. These aren’t just annoyances; they’re problems that cost you time and money.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen how a faulty ECM can send even seasoned mechanics down a rabbit hole of replacing perfectly good sensors. The ECM is the brain of your engine, and when it malfunctions, the symptoms can be misleading. This module, part number 12704475, is the direct, reliable solution to get your Savana running right again.
The Smart Solution: A Pre-Programmed 2018 Savana 2500 ECM
Forget the hassle and high cost of a dealership visit. We take the complexity out of the repair by programming this ECM specifically for your vehicle before it even leaves our facility. Hereโs how it works:
- โ Provide Your VIN: After you place your order, simply send us your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
- โ We Handle the Programming: Our experts flash the module with the latest, most stable GM factory software calibrations for your exact vehicle. This ensures perfect communication between the engine, transmission, and all other onboard systems.
- โ Install and Go: The module arrives at your door ready for installation. In many cases, it’s a straightforward plug-and-play process.
Expert Pro Tip: Check Your Connections
Before installing your new ECM, take 60 seconds to meticulously inspect the vehicle’s main harness connectors. Look for any signs of green or white corrosion on the pins, pushed-back pins, or damaged wires. Over the years, I’ve seen countless post-installation issues that were simply caused by a poor connection. Cleaning the terminals with a dedicated electronics cleaner can prevent a world of diagnostic headaches.
Simple Installation for the Savana 2500
On the 2018 Savana 2500, the ECM is located in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment. While professional installation is always recommended, here is a general guide:
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and secure it away from the post.
- Locate the ECM: Find the module on the driver’s side, towards the firewall.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical harness connectors and pull them straight out. Do not force them.
- Remove the Module: Unbolt the old ECM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New ECM: Mount your new, pre-programmed ECM and securely reconnect the harness connectors until they click into place.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
Important Final Steps: Theft & System Relearns
Please Note: After installation, if your van cranks but does not start, a Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) relearn is required. This is a standard security procedure that syncs the new ECM to your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This process must be performed using a GM-specific diagnostic tool with access to Tis2web or Techline Connect. Additionally, other procedures like a crankshaft position variation relearn or injector flow rate programming may be necessary depending on your specific vehicle’s configuration. The responsibility for performing these final setup procedures rests with the installer.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This Engine Control Module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, ensuring wide-ranging compatibility. This module will fit if your original part number is any of the following:
- 12704475
- 12692069
- 12680656
- 12686383
- 12688528
This part is confirmed to fit the following vehicles, among others:
- 2018 GMC SAVANA 2500 VAN (Electronic Control Module; LH rear engine compartment, 4.3L)
- 2018 Chevrolet SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP (Electronic Control Module; LH front engine compartment, ID 12680656)
- 2018 GMC SIERRA 1500 PICKUP (Electronic Control Module; LH front engine compartment, ID 12680656)
- 2018-2019 Chevrolet CORVETTE
- 2018 Cadillac ESCALADE & ESCALADE ESV
- 2018 Chevrolet EXPRESS 2500/3500 VAN (4.3L)
- 2018 GMC SAVANA 3500 VAN (4.3L)
- 2018 Chevrolet SUBURBAN 1500
- 2018 Chevrolet TAHOE
- 2018 GMC YUKON & YUKON XL 1500
- 2018 Cadillac XTS (3.6L)