Restore Peak Performance to Your GM Workhorse
Is your dependable GMC Sierra or Chevrolet Silverado suddenly giving you headaches? Unexplained stalling, a persistent Check Engine Light, or rough running can sideline even the toughest trucks. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the electronic brain of your engine and transmission, is often the source of these frustrating issues. This isn’t just another part; it’s the central command unit for your vehicle’s most critical functions. When it fails, performance, fuel economy, and reliability suffer. We offer a direct, effective solution: a replacement PCM, part number 12589462, delivered to your door fully programmed and ready for installation.
Forget the expensive trip to the dealership and the hassle of coordinating programming. We handle the complex part for you. Simply provide your vehicle’s VIN during checkout, and our technicians will flash this module with the latest, most stable GM factory software specific to your truck. This ensures seamless communication between all vehicle systems and restores the original factory performance. This is the most straightforward way to get your truck back on the road and running right.
A Technician’s Notebook
I remember a 2006 Sierra 3500 with the 8.1L V8 that came into the shop with a ghost of a problem. The owner, a contractor, said it would run fine for an hour, then randomly stall at a stoplight and refuse to restart for 15 minutes. No consistent codes, just pure frustration. He’d already replaced the crank sensor and fuel pump. After running diagnostics, I noticed the 5-volt reference signal to the sensors would drop out when the engine bay got hot. This pointed directly to an internal failure in the PCM. We installed one of these VIN-programmed modules, performed the security relearn, and the truck ran perfectly. It’s a classic example of how a failing 2005-2007 Sierra 3500 PCM can create symptoms that mimic other component failures.
Is Your GM Truck Showing These Telltale Signs?
A failing PCM can manifest in various ways, from obvious to subtle. If you’re experiencing any of the following, a faulty module could be the reason. This is especially true if you see diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to internal module failure.
- ✔ Check Engine Light is illuminated with codes like P0601 (Internal Control Module Memory Check Sum Error) or P0606 (PCM Processor Fault).
- ✔ Your vehicle fails to start or has intermittent starting problems.
- ✔ Noticeable decrease in fuel economy.
- ✔ The engine runs rough, misfires, or stalls unexpectedly.
- ✔ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting.
- ✔ Failure to pass an emissions inspection.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Smooth Installation
Installing your new 2005-2007 Sierra 3500 PCM is a manageable job for a DIYer with basic tools. The most critical part is performing the security relearn procedure after the physical installation. This allows your vehicle’s anti-theft system to recognize the new module.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery to prevent any electrical shorts.
- Locate the PCM: On most Sierra/Silverado trucks, the PCM is located under the hood on the driver’s side, near or under the battery tray. On Express/Savana vans, it’s typically in the LH rear engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully release the locking tabs and unplug all electrical connectors from the old PCM. Inspect the connectors for any corrosion or damage.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the PCM from its mounting bracket and remove it from the vehicle.
- Install the New PCM: Mount your new, pre-programmed PCM onto the bracket and securely plug in all electrical connectors.
- Reconnect Battery: Re-attach the negative battery terminal.
- Perform Security Relearn (CRITICAL): This procedure is essential. Turn the key to the “ON” position (without starting the engine) for 10-11 minutes, or until the security light on the dash turns off. Turn the key to “OFF” for 30 seconds. Repeat this cycle two more times for a total of three cycles. On the fourth attempt, the vehicle should start and run.
Verified Fitment for Your GM Vehicle
This module, corresponding to part numbers 12589462, 12602801, and 89017749, is a direct replacement for a wide range of General Motors vehicles. Please verify your model and options below to ensure compatibility. This part is a guaranteed fit for the 2005-2007 Sierra 3500 PCM application and many others.
- ✔ GMC Sierra / Chevrolet Silverado (1500, 2500, 3500): 2005-2007 (Check engine options, particularly 4.3L and 8.1L gasoline engines)
- ✔ GMC Savana / Chevrolet Express (1500, 2500, 3500): 2005-2007 (Gasoline engines)
- ✔ GMC Yukon XL 2500 / Chevrolet Suburban 2500: 2005-2006 (8.1L engine)
- ✔ Chevrolet Avalanche 2500: 2005-2006
- ✔ GMC Safari / Chevrolet Astro: 2005
- ✔ GMC Jimmy S15 / Chevrolet Blazer S10: 2005
- ✔ Cadillac CTS: 2004-2005 (V-Series, verify ID)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to provide my VIN?
Yes, absolutely. Providing your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is critical. We use it to load the correct GM-certified software and calibrations for your specific vehicle’s engine, transmission, and options. This step ensures the module works perfectly right out of the box.
Is any additional programming required after I install it?
No dealership programming is needed. The module arrives flashed for your vehicle. However, you MUST perform the vehicle’s security relearn procedure, which takes about 30 minutes with just the ignition key. We include instructions for this simple process.
What is the difference between a PCM and an ECM?
The terms are often used interchangeably. ECM (Engine Control Module) typically just controls engine functions. A PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is more integrated and controls both the engine and the automatic transmission. For these vehicles, it is a PCM.
Will this fix my check engine light?
If the check engine light is caused by an internal fault in the original PCM (like codes P0601-P0606), then yes, this part is the correct fix. If the light is on for another reason, like a bad oxygen sensor, you will still need to address that separate issue.
Where is the PCM located on my 2006 Sierra 3500?
On the 2005-2007 Sierra and Silverado trucks, the PCM is located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, mounted near the battery, often underneath the battery tray itself.