Restore Peak Performance to Your 8.1L Workhorse
Is your 2005-2006 Suburban 2500 running rough, throwing confusing check engine lights, or refusing to start altogether? The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the brain of your vehicle’s operation, and when it fails, it can cause a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it affects fuel economy, transmission shifting, and overall reliability. As a technician with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how a faulty PCM can sideline even the toughest GM trucks. This replacement module is the definitive solution to get your vehicle back on the road, running as it should.
We take the guesswork and extra cost out of the repair. Unlike a generic module from a parts store, this unit is professionally programmed to your specific vehicle using your VIN. We load the latest GM factory software updates, which often correct drivability issues you didn’t even know were software-related. This means no expensive trip to the dealership for programming. It arrives at your door ready for installation, saving you time and money.
A Technician’s Notebook: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2006 Silverado 2500 with the 8.1L V8 that came into my bay on a tow truck. The customer said it would crank but never start, and two other shops had already replaced the fuel pump and crank sensor to no avail. The scanner was showing a U0100 ‘Lost Communication with ECM/PCM’ code, but only intermittently. All the wiring and power feeds to the module checked out perfectly. On a hunch, I tapped the PCM casing with a screwdriver handle, and the fuel pump relay clicked on for a second. That confirmed it: an internal failure in the module. We installed a VIN-programmed PCM just like this one, performed the security relearn, and the truck fired up on the first try. It’s a classic failure mode for these units, and this part is the direct fix.
Is Your Suburban Showing These Symptoms?
A failing PCM can manifest in many ways. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module could be the culprit. This 2005-2006 Suburban 2500 PCM is designed to correct these issues.
- ✔ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- ✔ Engine stalling, stumbling, or misfiring
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- ✔ Complete no-start or crank-no-start condition
- ✔ Poor fuel mileage and decreased engine power
- ✔ Failure to pass state emissions testing
- ✔ Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) such as P0601, P0606 (Internal Module Failure) or U-series communication codes.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. Our pre-programming service handles the most complex part for you. Follow these general steps to get your truck running again.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 10 minutes for capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the Module: On most GM trucks and SUVs of this era, the PCM is located in the engine bay, on the driver’s side, under or next to the battery tray.
- Disconnect the Harnesses: Carefully release the locking tabs on the electrical connectors and pull them straight out from the module. Never force them. Inspect connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware, as you may need to reuse it.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed module in place and securely fasten it. Reconnect the electrical harnesses, ensuring they click firmly into place.
- Reconnect the Battery: Reattach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a simple security relearn procedure (often called a ‘key-on’ relearn) to sync the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. This typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle will not start until this is completed.
Verified Vehicle Compatibility
This module, part number 89017749, is a direct replacement for original part numbers 12589462 and 12602801. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of GM vehicles. While this listing focuses on the 2005-2006 Suburban 2500 PCM, please check the comprehensive list below to confirm fitment for your specific model and year. Providing your VIN during checkout is the best way to ensure perfect compatibility.
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
SAVANA 2500 VAN 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SUBURBAN 2500 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 8.1L
AVALANCHE 2500 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SAVANA 2500 VAN 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
SAVANA 3500 VAN 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
BLAZER S10/JIMMY S15 05 Electronic Control Module; (RH front engine compartment)
CTS 04-05 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), V-Series, ID 12589462
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 06 Electronic Control Module; gasoline, (LH rear engine compartment)
SAVANA 1500 VAN 05-07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 2500 VAN 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
SAVANA 2500 VAN 06 Electronic Control Module; gasoline, (LH rear engine compartment)
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
SILVERADO 3500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
SAVANA 3500 VAN 06 Electronic Control Module; gasoline, (LH rear engine compartment)
SIERRA 2500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
SAVANA 3500 VAN 07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment), gasoline
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
SIERRA 1500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
SIERRA 3500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L
ASTRO 05 Electronic Control Module; (LH front by battery)
EXPRESS 1500 VAN 05-07 Electronic Control Module; (LH rear engine compartment)
EXPRESS 3500 VAN 06 Electronic Control Module; gasoline, (LH rear engine compartment)
SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), w/o hybrid option; w/4.3L
YUKON XL 2500 05-06 Electronic Control Module; (LH front under battery), 8.1L
CTS 05 Electronic Control Module; (RH engine compartment), V-Series, ID 12602801
SILVERADO 2500 PICKUP 07 Electronic Control Module; classic style (creased door skin), (LH front under battery), gasoline, 8.1L