Is Your Truck Stalling or Hard to Start? The FPCM is a Likely Culprit.
As a technician with over two decades of experience, one of the most common issues I see on these GM trucks and SUVs is a sudden, frustrating no-start or stalling condition. You turn the key, the engine cranks, but it just won’t fire up. Or worse, it dies in the middle of traffic. More often than not, the problem isn’t the fuel pump itself, but this small electronic box: the Fuel Pump Control Module (FPCM), also known as the Fuel System Control Module (FSCM).
This module is the brain that tells your fuel pump how much pressure to deliver. When it fails, it can starve your engine of fuel, leading to a host of performance problems. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety issue. We solve this problem by providing a replacement FPCM that is fully programmed with the latest GM software, specifically matched to your vehicle’s VIN. No expensive trip to the dealership is required.
From the Diagnostic Bay: The Ghost in the Machine
I remember a 2008 Suburban that came into my shop on a tow truck. The owner had already replaced the fuel pump himself, but the truck still wouldn’t start consistently. He was convinced he had a wiring nightmare on his hands. After connecting my scan tool, I saw the tell-tale code P069E – Fuel Pump Control Module Requested MIL Illumination. Instead of diving into wiring diagrams for hours, I went straight to the FPCM on the frame rail. It was corroded from years of exposure to road salt and moisture. We installed a new, pre-programmed module, and the truck fired up on the first try. It’s a classic case where diagnosing the controller, not just the component, saves hours of frustration and hundreds of dollars.
Is Your GM Vehicle Showing These Symptoms?
- ✔ Engine cranks but will not start.
- ✔ Vehicle starts but stalls immediately or after a few minutes.
- ✔ Stuttering or hesitation during acceleration.
- ✔ Loss of power, especially when towing or going uphill.
- ✔ Check Engine Light (CEL) with codes like P069E, P0230, or U0100.
- ✔ A “Reduced Engine Power” message on the dashboard.
A Straightforward Guide to Installation
Replacing the FPCM is a job most DIYers can handle in their driveway. On most of these trucks, like the Avalanche or Silverado, it’s located on the driver’s side frame rail, near the spare tire.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the Module: Find the FPCM mounted to the frame crossmember. It’s a small black or silver box with electrical connectors.
- Disconnect and Remove: Carefully unplug the electrical connectors. Note their orientation. Then, remove the bolts or nuts holding the module to the frame.
- Install the New Module: Mount your new, pre-programmed FPCM in the same location. Ensure it is securely fastened.
- Reconnect: Plug the electrical connectors firmly into the new module. You should hear a click.
- Final Step: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. The vehicle is now ready to start with no further programming needed.
The Smart Choice: A Pre-Programmed 2008-2009 Avalanche Fuel Pump Module
The biggest hurdle in replacing modern electronic modules is the need for vehicle-specific programming. A blank module from the parts store won’t work until it’s been configured by a dealership, adding time, cost, and hassle to your repair. Our service eliminates that step completely. By providing us with your VIN during checkout, you receive a part that is 100% plug-and-play, loaded with the most current GM software to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency for your specific vehicle.
Will This Fit My Vehicle?
This module is a direct-fit replacement for a wide range of GM vehicles. Please verify your model and year below:
AVALANCHE 1500: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
CANYON / COLORADO: 2009 (Fuel Pump; rear center frame)
ENCLAVE: 2009 (Fuel Pump)
ESCALADE / ESV / EXT: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
EXPRESS / SAVANA 1500 VAN: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
HUMMER H2: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
HUMMER H3: 2009 (Fuel Pump; rear frame)
OUTLOOK: 2009 (Fuel Pump)
SIERRA / SILVERADO 1500 PICKUP: 2007 (New Style, smooth door skin), 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
SIERRA DENALI: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
SUBURBAN 1500: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
TAHOE: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
TRAVERSE: 2009 (Fuel Pump; rear crossmember)
VUE: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; RH rear engine compartment)
YUKON / YUKON XL 1500: 2008-2009 (Fuel Pump; LH frame rail)
This part is a direct replacement for the following part numbers: 13501024, 15213110, 20759945, 20850907, 25785013, 25854536, 25866052, 25967325
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I install this without providing a VIN?
The module will not function correctly. We require your VIN to load the specific software for your vehicle’s configuration. We will not ship the part until we have your VIN.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For most of the listed trucks and SUVs, this is a very straightforward DIY job. It’s typically mounted on the frame rail and accessible with basic hand tools. Our installation guide above provides the general steps.
How do I know if my FPCM is bad and not my fuel pump?
While symptoms overlap, a key indicator is the diagnostic trouble code P069E. Additionally, FPCM failure is extremely common on these vehicles, often due to corrosion from its exposed mounting location. It’s a more frequent and less expensive failure point than the in-tank fuel pump.
Will this fix my ‘Reduced Engine Power’ light?
If the ‘Reduced Engine Power’ mode is being triggered by a fault in the fuel pump control circuit (like code P069E), then yes, replacing the FPCM is the correct repair to restore full power.
What information do you need from my VIN?
Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) allows us to access the exact GM build data for your truck, including engine size, transmission, and other options. This ensures we load the correct and most up-to-date software onto the module before shipping.