Restore Your Truck’s Brainpower and Performance
Is your 2004 Silverado 2500, Sierra, or other GM truck running rough, shifting erratically, or showing a persistent check engine light? A failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is often the culprit, acting like a broken brain for your vehicle’s most critical systems. This can bring your workhorse to a standstill, costing you time and money. This VIN-programmed PCM is the definitive, hassle-free solution to restore your truck’s factory performance and reliability, getting you back on the road without an expensive trip to the dealership.
Common Symptoms & Your Solution
A faulty PCM can manifest in numerous ways, often causing confusion and costly misdiagnoses. If you’re experiencing any of the following, this module is the solution you need:
- Complete no-start condition or intermittent stalling
- Poor fuel economy and loss of power
- Harsh or unpredictable automatic transmission shifting
- Check Engine Light (CEL) with communication codes (U-codes) or various engine performance codes
- Failure to pass emissions testing
By replacing your old unit with this correctly programmed 2004 Silverado 2500 PCM, you are addressing the core of these electronic issues and providing a stable foundation for your engine and transmission to operate as designed.
Features & Benefits
- โ VIN-Programmed for Your Vehicle: We flash this module with the latest GM software using your specific VIN. This crucial step ensures perfect compatibility and function right out of the box.
- โ Direct-Fit Replacement: Engineered to replace service number 12586242 and a wide range of other compatible numbers, guaranteeing a perfect fit in the original location.
- โ Solve Complex Drivability Issues: Eliminates common problems caused by a faulty computer, such as rough idling, poor acceleration, and erratic transmission behavior.
- โ Clear Stubborn Check Engine Lights: Addresses the root cause of many diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), allowing you to finally turn off that frustrating light and restore system integrity.
- โ No Dealer Programming Required: This module arrives ready for installation, saving you the time, high cost, and complexity of having a dealership program a new unit.
- โ Broad GM Compatibility: While perfect for a 2004 Silverado 2500 PCM replacement, this unit also fits a huge range of 2004 GM trucks and SUVs, including the Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Escalade, and more.
- โ Peace of Mind Guarantee: This unit is backed by our one-year replacement warranty.
An Expert’s Note on Installation
As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen countless GMT800 trucks like your ’04 Silverado sidelined by a bad computer. The key isn’t just swapping the box; it’s the programming. An incorrectly programmed module can cause more problems than it solves. We handle that critical step for you, flashing the unit with the latest GM calibration for your exact VIN. This ensures all systemsโengine, transmission, and emissionsโcommunicate correctly. After installing the new 2004 Silverado 2500 PCM, you will likely need to perform a simple security relearn procedure, which can often be done right in your driveway. This final ‘handshake’ between the PCM and your truck is what brings everything back to factory-spec operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a plug-and-play part?
Almost. It comes fully programmed to your VIN, so no dealer flashing is needed. However, you will need to perform a security relearn procedure after installation so the PCM recognizes your vehicle’s anti-theft system and keys. This procedure is straightforward and can typically be done without special tools.
How do I provide my VIN number?
After you complete your purchase, simply reply to your order confirmation email with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can also add it to the ‘notes’ section during checkout. We cannot ship your part until we receive the VIN.
Where is the PCM located on my 2004 Silverado 2500?
On most compatible GM trucks and full-size SUVs like the Silverado, Sierra, and Tahoe, the PCM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, under the battery tray or next to the fuse box.
My original computer has a different service number. Will this still work?
Yes. This module, service number 12586242, directly replaces a long list of other service numbers including 19299226, 89017738, and many others listed in the product details. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this is the correct part.
Do I need to send my old computer back?
No, there is no core charge or need to return your old module. You can recycle it locally or keep it.