Restore Your Van’s Reliability and Performance
Is your 2005-2007 GMC Savana 1500 van suddenly unreliable? Experiencing frustrating issues like stalling at intersections, rough idling, poor fuel economy, or a persistent Check Engine light that just won’t go away? As a technician with over two decades of experience, I know that when a workhorse like the Savana is down, your business or daily life grinds to a halt. The problem often points to a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the central computer that manages everything from fuel injection and spark timing to transmission shifting.
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete solution. We are offering a genuine GM Powertrain Control Module, part number 12602801, that arrives at your door fully programmed to your specific vehicle. Simply provide us with your van’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) after purchase, and our experts will flash the module with the very latest GM factory software. This critical step ensures all performance parameters and drivability updates are loaded, restoring your van’s operational integrity without a costly trip to the dealership for programming.
Is Your Van Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Unexplained Check Engine Light with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (ECM/PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ The engine cranks but refuses to start, or starts intermittently.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel mileage and overall engine performance.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Engine stalling or running rough, especially after warming up.
- ✔ Communication errors with your scan tool.
Case Study: The Intermittent No-Start Savana
A local contractor brought in his ’06 Savana 1500. The van was his mobile office and absolutely critical for his business. The problem was maddening: some days it would start perfectly, others it would just crank and crank. He’d already replaced the battery and checked the fuel pump. After hooking up my diagnostic scanner, I noticed intermittent communication loss with the PCM. A wiggle test on the harness didn’t reveal a wiring issue. Experience told me this pointed to an internal failure on the PCM’s circuit board, likely a cracked solder joint from years of heat cycles and vibration. We installed one of these VIN-programmed 2005-2007 Savana 1500 PCM units, performed the security relearn, and the van fired up instantly. It’s been on the road without a single hiccup for over a year now, a testament to getting the diagnosis and the part right the first time.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the PCM on these vans is a job most DIY enthusiasts or any professional can handle with basic tools. The key is patience and following the proper procedure.
- Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery and wait at least 15 minutes for the system capacitors to discharge.
- Locate the Module: On the Savana and Express vans, the PCM is typically found in the left-hand (driver’s side) rear of the engine compartment, mounted to a bracket.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug the wiring harness connectors from the old PCM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damaged pins before proceeding.
- Remove the Old PCM: Unbolt the module from its mounting bracket. Keep the hardware as you will need it for the new module.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed 2005-2007 Savana 1500 PCM onto the bracket and securely tighten the bolts.
- Reconnect Everything: Plug the wiring harness connectors firmly into the new module until they click into place. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn: You will need to perform a security relearn procedure (often called a Passlock or anti-theft relearn) to allow your vehicle to start. This procedure typically involves turning the key to the ‘ON’ position for 10-15 minutes, then off, and repeating two more times. Your vehicle’s service manual will have the exact steps.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module, part number 12602801, is a direct replacement for service numbers 12589462 and 89017749. It is guaranteed to fit a wide range of GM trucks and vans. Please verify your vehicle is on the list below:
- GMC Savana 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van (2005-2007)
- Chevrolet Express 1500 / 2500 / 3500 Van (2005-2007)
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 (2005-2007 Classic, 4.3L)
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra 2500/3500 (2005-2007 Classic, 8.1L Gasoline)
- Chevrolet Suburban 2500 & Yukon XL 2500 (2005-2006, 8.1L)
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2500 (2005-2006)
- GMC Safari & Chevrolet Astro (2005)
- Chevrolet Blazer S10 & GMC Jimmy S15 (2005)
- Cadillac CTS-V (2004-2005, verify ID)
By ordering this pre-programmed 2005-2007 Savana 1500 PCM, you’re choosing a reliable, cost-effective repair that gets you back on the road with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything after installing this module?
Yes. While the module comes programmed for your engine and transmission, you must perform a security relearn procedure. This syncs the new PCM with your vehicle’s anti-theft system and is required for the engine to start. This procedure is simple and does not require special tools.
How do you program the PCM to my vehicle?
After you complete your purchase, you will need to provide us with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). We use this VIN to access the official GM database and load the correct, most up-to-date software calibration file for your specific vehicle configuration.
Is this a used part?
This is a high-quality, inspected, and tested original equipment module that has been professionally prepared for resale. Each unit is verified to be fully functional before being programmed and shipped.
Will this fix my transmission shifting problems?
In many cases, yes. The PCM also controls transmission functions, including shift points and line pressure. If your transmission issues are caused by faulty electronic commands from a failing PCM, this part will resolve them. However, it will not fix internal mechanical failures within the transmission itself.
What if my original part number is not 12602801?
This module is a direct replacement for several part numbers, including 12589462 and 89017749. As long as your vehicle is on the compatibility list, this module will function correctly once programmed to your VIN.